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Chinatown in Bangkok

6/16/2018

Hua Seng Hong Restaurant

During our Thailand visit last January, Don and I got to experience a little bit of the Chinese influence.

After 2 weeks of eating Thai food, 3 meals a day, we switched it up a bit and enjoyed some Chinese food!

Luckily our daughter-in-law was able to find the restaurant she thought she remembered from years ago. I liked the sign with the happy chef!

Exploring

We worked up an appetite before, roaming the hot and congested streets of Chinatown. I'm lucky I didn't get hit by a tuk tuk or bike. My eyes were so busy taking in the sights and smells surrounding me.

Smiles and Green Aprons

It wasn't obvious where we were supposed to go, since the whole entrance was blocked with kitchen excitement, that spilled right onto the sidewalk. We avoided touching huge metal pots, steaming over flames. We carefully made our way past the hanging food-critters and through the cluster of servers and cooks.

To the Back

The middle room was crowded with shoppers and diners and staff. We were ushered back further, past the shelves of wrapped foods and bottles. Don had to stoop over to step through the low threshold into the back room.

Little Red Oasis

Suddenly we were in a small room that at least looked like a restaurant. Whew. Even though we were with our daughter-in-law who has spent many of her years in Bangkok, it had been a little stressful navigating the streets of Chinatown. Finding ourselves in an air-conditioned, fairly quiet room, decorated with a lit up shrine of sorts, was a nice treat.

Shark's Fin Restaurant, Since 1973

I wish I knew the history of this place. The menu displayed the restaurant's curious name in English, but that's about it.

As we studied the menu, I peeked around at all the serious diners. It was January, peek tourist season in Thailand, but all the diners appeared to be locals on a lunch break. Then I noticed a blond couple sit down right next to us. Did those tourists follow us in?

Rest Room Break

Taking a trip to the restroom always gives me a chance to snoop around. I had to be pretty discreet snapping a photo of the bathroom door. Too bad I didn't capture a man and woman, bumping into each other. I wonder how often that happens?

The 2 little doors sort of amused me with their mint-colored glass and chrome. It seemed like they should be leading us to a swimming pool or spa.

Lazy Susan

We were starved and thirsty. The Lazy Suzan spun around quite a bit, with the 4 of us grabbing for food. Then we began to slow down.

Dim Sum, Cashew Chicken and Sweet & Sour Pork

We weren't too daring with our ordering. After walking by so many curious food stalls with not so appetizing smells, we just went for the basics. We got pleasantly full, using up a lot of the Kleenex thin napkins. Maybe next time we'll check out the Shark Fin Soup!

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Jungle Bird in Sacramento

6/8/2018

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Tiki Time in February!

It was chilly when Don and I visited the California capital, early this year. Our son and daughter-in-law had just moved from New Orleans and their blood was as thin as our Texan blood. Surrounding ourselves in tropical decor, sounded like a good idea.

Scott and Chali had heard about the Tiki Bar in Sacramento's Midtown. We arrived on a Sunday night to check it out. For a moment, the dark windows made us think the place might be closed. But evidently the windows are kept dark on purpose.

Corner Hut

The first thing we saw was a corner bar, under a thatched roof. The bamboo stools were mostly taken, but luckily there were more options for seating.

Birds!

There were birds hanging from the ceiling, but also a wall covered in bird prints. Don and I love a tiki theme, but this additional bird theme should have pleased our son the most. As a little boy, Scott was obsessed with birds. He had as much bird decor at his 4-year-old "Bird-Day Party" as the well decorated tiki bar.

Where to Sit?

The 4 of us were hungry and cold and ready to cozy up with food & drink in the jungle atmosphere. Luckily it was early and it wasn't crowded. The wicker chairs would have been nice, if it had just been Don and me. One corner had a nice little palapa roof and some carved masks.

Dining in Back

We found a nice table in the back with some interesting art work above our heads.

I'm pretty sure there is a good story behind every collected piece in the bar/restaurant.

I wanted to ask a ton of questions, but our server was a little rushed. She clearly was not up for chit chat, about all the tiki decor surrounding us.

Festive Drink Menu!

I've never been in a tiki bar that was bright enough to read a menu. My cell phone light was helpful, though. There were lots of delicious drink ingredients to choose from, but I basically chose my drink because of the vessel it was served in.

Posing

We hadn't even had more than a sip or two, when we snapped these photos. But these drinks made us very cheery. Our drinks came with fruit garnishes and umbrellas, curly straws and lots of alcohol. I'm lightweight, so I took my time.

Tabar Island Toucan

All the drinking containers were mighty fine, but I was the only one who had to hand over my credit card for collateral. My 10-dollar drink with vodka, syrup, mint and lime was worth it. Evidently, my credit card would have been charged $100. if my 4-pound copper bird had accidentally slipped into my large purse.

Our Tiki Gang

The youngin's were good sports when I asked our, not so friendly server to take our photo. But after 3 sips of tiki drinks, none of us were too concerned about looking touristy.

Pu Pu Platter

It's never a good idea to do your tiki-drinking on an empty stomach. We shared a Pu Pu Platter and a rice bowl. Having a flame at the table added a little more drama, but we didn't really use it. The food was satisfying, but mostly Jungle Bird is about the drinks.

Music Changes

After enjoying ourselves a while, the vibe suddenly changed at Jungle Bird. Early on, we'd enjoyed sipping our drinks, to the Faux-Polynesian Exotica tunes of Arthur Lyman. There is no better music for Tiki! Suddenly at 9 pm, the volume was cranked up and sounds of Metallica, replaced marimba and bird sounds. Ugh. Our little escape to paradise, lost its magic. We finished up and ordered an Uber.

Inquiring Minds...

The next day I called up Jungle Bird. I had to find out what the deal was. Maybe they turned on that music to get the Oldsters out. It turns out, we were experiencing Savage Sunday. Every Sunday at 9 pm, the tropical music haters get to enjoy a little heavy metal. Good to know.

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Taylor's in Springfield, MO

6/6/2018

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Good Memories

When I was a little girl, Springfield felt like the big city, when we visited from Iowa. We didn't even have a McDonald's in Grinnell, so it was a thrill when our Grandma Daw took us to Taylor's.

Burger Adventure in April

When my sister and I stayed in Springfield last April, we rewarded ourselves with lunch at Taylor's. We were in town, sorting through our Dad's apartment after his move. After 5 days of working and reminiscing over Springfield memories, Jennifer and I worked up a good appetite for burgers.

No So Easy

Eating at Taylor's is not as easy as grabbing a bite at Mc Donald's. When I was last in Springfield, two years before, my hubby and I did not luck out. We arrived at 2:01 and hoped we could still get lunch.

April 2016

There were a few people finishing up that day and I pleaded with the owner Darlene, to let us have a quick bite. She assured me the kitchen was closed. Darlene was sitting in a booth, checking a few people out with her adding machine. I could see staff peering through the kitchen window. They looked relieved that I wasn't able to convince Darlene to re-open the kitchen.

Last Taylor's Meal in 1969?

I remember practically sulking that day, when I realized I was not going to be able to give Don the Taylor's Experience. Actually I needed the experience as much as he did. It had been over 45 years since I'd eaten at Taylor's, so my memories were pretty vague. In fact, I don't even remember the very odd drive-up-order-area in back. I wonder if that still works?

Open 15 Hours a Week!

On April 23rd, Jennifer and I were lucky that we happened to be driving near Taylor's during their 3-hour open period... on a weekday. It took luck, because we were far too busy working dawn to midnight, to schedule in a burger adventure. We just happened to be doing an errand at the right time!

So Happy!

The cozy square-shaped diner was packed. I recognized Darlene bustling about in a pink "70th Anniversary" tee shirt. She pointed towards an open booth and tossed a couple menus our way.

I chuckled over the abrupt greeting and reminded Jennifer how Darlene had refused to budge with their closing time, 2 years earlier. We took a quick glance at our menus and made sure we were prepared to order when Darlene came with her pad and pen.

Sharing the Booth

What I wasn't prepared for, was the surprise of sharing my side of the booth with Darlene. Without hesitation, she plopped herself right down to take our order. "I'm too old for this!" Darlene shook her head. She told us that one of her girls had quit and she was having to wait tables. I'm sure she was extra glad that Taylor's is only open from 11 to 2.

Grinnell Girls!

Darlene didn't have to be told that Jennifer and I were out-of-towners. As Darlene scribbled our order, we told her that we sisters had lived with our family in Grinnell, Iowa in the 1960's. "We used to come to Springfield to see our grandmother and she would bring us here!" I had expected to see Darlene's jaw drop, because we'd read in the menu how she and her husband moved from Grinnell to buy Taylor's in 1978! But the news hardly phased Darlene. I guess lots of people come from Iowa to Missouri.

But she did seem pretty relaxed and rejuvenated after being off her feet for 3 minutes. Suddenly she got up and hurried off to turn in our order.

Steak Burgers!

Between the 2 of us, we had a couple steak burgers, fries, salad and an extra thick chocolate shake.

It was absolutely what the doctor ordered!

The burgers were flat and crispy around the edges, like Steak-N-Shake, which was another Springfield favorite when we were kids. I ate way more than I should have!

Darlene's Desk

We finished up and headed to the back corner, where Darlene was winding down in her special booth. Luckily we had cash, since Taylor's will remind you they do things the old fashioned way. We thanked Darlene with smiles and food compliments. I told her I hoped she could find a new server soon. She laughed that it wasn't easy finding someone who wanted to work just 3 hours a day.

Nostalgia

As we headed out, I glanced at the news clippings and wondered about Coach Taylor, who opened the burger joint in 1947. It was quite the popular teen hangout when it first opened. My Dad would have been attending Drury College, just a few miles away during those first years. Jennifer and I regretted not having Dad with us, on our errand that lead to Taylor's. What would my dad have remembered about the burgers and the coach... and all the cars that evidently circled the lot, American Graffiti style.

Next Time

I'm so glad I got to enjoy a little nostalgia-dining-adventure with my sister! I'm so relieved that Darlene is still running the place after 40 years. I'm sure she's ready to have more than a 3 minute break, in a booth!

However, I hope she hangs in there a while longer, so I can get back with Don... and get my Dad over to Taylor's for a burger and shake!

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Lorenzillo's Live Lobster House

5/27/2018

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Our Last Night in Cancun

Don and I usually avoid Touristy Mexico, but we got a good deal for a "resort" in the Hotel Zone of Cancun. Why not?

On our last night we chose a restaurant with good reviews, within walking distance. We put on comfy shoes and headed off. When we arrived, I had to grin at the sign. First of all, there was a giant lobster, which meant we could say, We dined, 2 times in one day, at a restaurant with a giant lobster on the roof. (see previous post)

I also had to grin at the words, under the name. "Since 1683" Hmmm? Is that a joke?

Built Over Water

To the left of the sign was the giant palapa restaurant, sitting over the water. Lorenzillo's brags that their palapa is the largest in the Americas. Of course they also claim a history going back to 1683. I was ready to find out.

First Things First

Before entering the main dining area, we paused to peek into the open air bar. It was on the early side, but still... How could this breezy bar with fabulous wood & canvas chairs and curious, striped wood floors, not be filled with people?

We didn't need an answer. We just took a seat by the water and sighed.

Martinis and Sunset

We sat at our little barrel table and watched the sun sink. The April temps were balmy, not sticky.

While sipping, I studied the words on the side of the building. I assumed Lorenzillo was the name of the owner. But later I learned that a man named Salvador, opened this restaurant and then others.

He even opened a furniture factory, to make the tables and chairs that fill his restaurants.

Main Dining Room

After our drinks we headed inside. The interior wasn't full, but it was still bustling and festive. The blue and white, nautical theme was inviting.

The Wine Vault

We took a moment to take it all in, before we were seated. The thick blue door leading to the wine vault, looked like something out of a James Bond movie.

Lobster Boat

Lorenzillo's has its own lobster and crab farm. They're known for their lobster, so we probably should have thought about ordering some.

But the boat filled with Lorenzillo's Girls, made me think twice. I've always been a wimp about seeing live food before eating it. So, how could I eat one of the Girls? That's like naming your pet chicken, that you plan on eventually eating.

On View

The display case made the fresh fish tempting, even to someone who doesn't adore seafood. I loved the artistically carved veggies, making pretty designs with the seafood.

Bar Boat

I love a theme and this place did a mighty fine job. Even the bar looked like a boat. The waiters wore blue and white shirts, accented with red lobsters. One of the men wearing a lobster shirt, welcomed us and had us follow him to our table.

Nautical Plates

We passed beautifully set tables. The white over blue tablecloths, plus blue & white china with a golden ships, looked very classy!

He took us to a perfectly fine table, except for one thing. It was not by a window and there seemed to be quite a few available.

New Table

It never hurts to ask and sure enough, we were moved to a better table, beside a window. I tried not to wonder why they didn't take us to a better table first. Better to not over-think it.

Our new table was lovely. A purse stand suddenly appeared next to me. My unworthy travel bag really wanted to hide under the table, but I used the stand anyway. Then a standing ice bucket arrived to hold our wine and then a basket with an amazing assortment of fresh breads and garlic butter.

Yum

Complimentary empanadas came next, with two kinds of sauce.

I was happy.

Curious View

There was a door nearby, that lead to the deck tables. After a couple sips of winel, I took a quick step outside to catch the sunset. There was one more giant lobster that needed to be photographed! In my picture, it looks like he's keeping an eye on Don, who can be spotted in the first window.

Sinking Sun

Then, I took a photo of the sun just before it slipped behind low clouds. If we had been vacationing during peak season, then we could have enjoyed lots of people watching, along with our sunset. The palapa and decks were mostly empty.

Feast

It was silly to order chicken at a place known for seafood, but I was in heaven with my crispy coated chicken, oozing with spinach and goat cheese. I enjoyed bites of pasta and asparagus between decadent mouthfuls of cheesy meat.

Don loves his seafood and he was more than pleased with the Veracruz-style Grouper, serves with onions, peppers and olives. He can be picky, but he raved.

Dessert?

We had no room for dessert, but we worked off a couple calories by hiking the stairs to the second level, for a view of the wonderful "striped" floors. I think there's a story about those floors...?

Flags and a View

The upstairs dining was closed for the evening, but our waiter invited us to go up and peek around. Instead of a window view, these tables could look down on the diners below, or up at the international flags hanging from the beams.

Best of all the upper level walls were covered with framed clippings and photos. We learned about past famous diners, like Jacques Cousteau and Omar Sharif. We learned about the two hurricanes that nearly destroyed the restaurant. I also finally learned the real age of Lorenzillo's.

The Legend

It was no surprise to learn that our restaurant had not been around since 1693. Lorenzillo's really opened in 1979 and was named for a legendary pirate.

The story claims that in 1693, Lorenzillo was a hungry pirate when his ship arrived at the port in Veracruz, Mexico. He became enraged to find no good food available. That pirate story inspired Salvador Vidal, when he opened his restaurant in 1979.

He could have just named the Lobster House after himself, since he has a pretty good name. Instead he used the legend and a little humor to create a restaurant with a reputation for delicious food, that could please a fierce and picky pirate, like Lorenzillo. Luckily all customers seemed content on the night we dined. I saw no outraged pirates or diners yelling and smashing the beautiful blue plates.

Happy Tourists and Happy Pirates!

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Miramar Restaurante & Lobster House

5/26/2018

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Isla Mujeres in Mexico

This was just about the first restaurant Don and I spotted when our ferry arrived on the island. It was early morning and we were starved. Any restaurant with a lobster on the roof, had to be good!

Under the Roof

Don and I paused to check the menu on the little carved stands in front. No staff rushed to greet, because they were all under the roof, eating their own breakfasts. But we were spotted and encouraged to come in and find a seat.

Don and I headed into the shaded restaurant and noticed more creatures hanging from the ceiling. All the tables were sitting in beach sand, which was pretty fun. But we headed down the wooden walkway, towards the water.

Table on the Deck

We picked one of two wooden tables, on the deck, where we had a little shade, plus a nice view of the water and dock.

All Alone

The other ferry tourists all seemed eager to get to beaches or golf cart tours. We seemed to have the place to ourselves and that was perfect.

Coffee at Last

Our waiter eventually arrived with menus. I asked if they served coffee. He answered no... and then laughed. Some diners in need of caffeine, might not have found that funny. I was just happy he was teasing.

Once I had a sip of coffee, I could enjoy the atmosphere. Our little, polished table had some character. There was a glass covered hole in the center, with a flower and shell display.

Carved Chairs

The chairs that went with the table were even more exciting. Don and I both had carved seahorses behind our backs, but there were chairs with dolphins and turtles and lobsters.

I think families with young kids would find these chairs pretty nifty. I can also imagine some bickering siblings, tired from a day at the beach... fighting over the octopus chair.

Eye on the Dock

This was the perfect little spot to start our day on the island. Don and I (and the overhead shark) kept an eye on the water and boats. Not only was the setting peaceful, but the music that played softly was quite pleasant. A nice change from some of the places that cater to young tourists!

Breakfast

The food part of the dining adventure was decent and priced well. Our orders of Ranchero Eggs and Mexican Eggs were pretty similar and I can't even remember which we liked better.

Lobster Next Time

Our memories of Miramar will be about the curious decor and the view and our friendly pelican. I wish we had a lobster memory. After we excited I noticed the glass window facing the street, with the lobster tank. Next time, we'll need to go at night for a real feast, with lobster memories!

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Hondo's on Main

5/24/2018

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Fredericksburg, Texas

Birthday Lunch

It's time for another throwback write-up. It's been over a year since the day we went to Hondo's. I turned 60 on that Sunday and we spent the day wandering, in historic Fredericksburg.

Hondo's wasn't a big destination restaurant. I pretty much picked it because I was intrigued by the old building. I liked the idea of the place being a whole lot older than me... like about 55 years older.

Self Help Restaurant/Bar

It was a beautiful day, when we arrived. A band was gearing up out on the patio and we had a feeling the place would be getting packed soon. We stepped inside the bar area to figure out how this place worked. Luckily, some other diners filled us in. "Order at the inside bar. Find yourself a seat. Pick up your food at the kitchen window."

Who is Hondo?

On past visits to Fredericksburg, I had always been curious about the old building. Stepping inside for the first time, it was nice to see the interior had just as much charm as the exterior. There were thick stucco walls, wooden beams, a stone fireplace and lots of photos of Hondo. I obviously needed to learn about who this Hondo person was.

Hondo by the Stage

The cute little stage with twinkle lights and stacks of beer boxes, was surrounded with more Hondo images. I felt a little bad that I've lived in Texas nearly 20 years and didn't know about Hondo Crouch. I quickly learned that Hondo was the writer and humorist, who became the self-proclaimed mayor of Luckenbach, Texas.

Luckenbach in 2015

Here is Luckenbach in 2015, when Don and I stopped by on July 4th weekend. We knew about the Texas Hill Country "town" made famous by Waylon Jennings in 1977. But we didn't know about Hondo Crouch, who bought the town for $30,000 in 1970.

Hondo's Daugther

Hondo died in 1976, before the song. But his daughter and her husband decided to bring a little of Hondo's spirit to life, when they opened the Fredericksburg bar/restaurant and music venue.

Don and I managed to find an open table outside and settled in to enjoy the music and people watching. It wasn't exactly like the dance hall at Luckenbach, with its daily live music. But it was relaxed and entertaining.

People Watching

There was lots of good people watching. I was sorry I hadn't worn my cowboy hat. I guess that's because I don't have one. But I could have worn boots.

Cool Drinks

Don and I toasted to the day, with margarita and beer and waited for our order.

Burgers and Soup

Our food didn't take long. I recall Don's burger was extra yummy, topped with crispy onion strings, bacon and cheese.

I'm afraid I have totally failed to remember what kind of soup and salad I had. I think I had some kind of Cobb Salad or something. I do remember liking the soup, even though the photo doesn't look so good.

Rating the Restroom

Worst of all I can't remember what was amusing about the restroom and why I took the photo. Was it just that there was a hole in the shape of a star on the door? Or was there something unusual about the Ladies Room? (I often find old restrooms can be part of the dining adventure) I can't remember for the life of me what the significance was.

Thats the problem with a throw-back write-up... when you don't take notes. I'll just have to go back and enjoy again!

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Power Plant Texas Grill

5/22/2018

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Seguin, Texas

It's not every day that you get a chance to dine in what was once a power plant. A while back, Don and I made a lunch stop, to have a dam-view, restaurant experience!

Engine Room

I loved the idea of eating inside the impressive brick structure. This building operated as a gristmill in the early 1900's and was converted into a hydroelectric plant in 1940.

Diesel Engine

We could have eaten some burgers, right beside the Busch-Sulzer Diesel Engine!

Or...

We could have nibbled on fries, while studying hefty pieces of machinery.

Engineering

Evidently it took some creative engineering to get this place reopened after years of sitting vacant. There was leveling and bridge building... kitchen and deck construction and all sorts of things I don't understand.

I also know nothing about all cool machinery inside the engine room. I do know it fascinated my engineer husband, who wandered and studied, while I saw about getting a table.

Food with a View!

It was hard to give up the idea of dining within those brick walls, where we could have imagined the noise and activity 100 years ago. But the weather was too lovely on a spring day.

Eye on the Dam

Even without the history, this view was pretty ideal. It was fun imagining the scene through the years. It may have been a beaver dam that inspired the first original mill dam, way over 100 years ago. By the late 1800's, Henry Troell was the owner and the mill evolved into a power plant with the installation of electro-hydraulic generators.

"S" Shaped Fall

I guess the bend of the Guadalupe River had something to do with this "S" shaped curve. It was so pleasing to the eye. The trees were just beginning to get green and the warm spring temps made the breeze feel just right.

We ordered and hoped our food didn't come too fast.

The Special

I couldn't turn down the meatloaf, since it was featured as their in house daily special. The dark gravy was tasty on the mashed potatoes and meatloaf. The roll took me back to my hot lunches in grade school. And that is a good thing. Don got the Power Burger and it was quite decent.

The Turbine Room

Our waiter encouraged us to cross the bridge and take a peek at the Turbine Room. I'm guessing the space is used for private gatherings or overflow. What a dramatic view, looking straight down on the water!

The Turbine Wheel

In 1886, Henry Troell was given permission by Seguin Waterworks Company to install a 54-inch turbine wheel at his power dam. This is the wheel that allowed water to be pumped to the Seguin area. Troell must have been a pretty big man on Seguin's campus, back in the day. No one took power for granted back then.

Next Time

We need to get back to Seguin and do a little Power Dining in the evening. I'm not sure where the sun sets or what kind of crowd fills the place at night. But it might be worth a visit!

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Kura Revolving Sushi Bar

5/20/2018

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Sugar Land, Texas

I love sushi and I love a little fun with my dining. So when this unique sushi bar moved to a new shopping area near our home, I was pretty excited.

Revolving Sushi?

I had no clue about "revolving sushi" until my daughter filled me in. Heidi has enjoyed food on a conveyor belt, in Japan and she's also had the "Kura" experience in Austin, where she lives. We're lucky we don't have to travel to find a Kura. There are a number of them in Texas and California... and one in Georgia.

When Heidi visited Sugar Land in February, we gave it a try, arriving on a busy Sunday night.

The Wait

Heidi, showed us how to check in on the electronic tablet. We could keep an eye on our progress by watching the numbers, as they lit up on the screen. We also got a warning text, to let us know we'd be seated soon. That was helpful, in case we wanted to wander outside a bit. But we stayed inside with the crowd, standing patiently. We chuckled with a few others nearby. We agreed that we did not want to end up at the table near the door, surrounded by the waiting crowd.

Eating at the Counter?

There were table options as well as counter seating. It was tempting to sit facing the parade of food, like these folks. But I wasn't sure we would get the full experience.

Food and Toys

I learned a little something by watching a nearby table. The kids seemed pretty delighted with the table-side contraption that offered up prizes. But I watched other tables and realized it was not just for kids.

In the past, you had to be a kid to get a toy with your food. There were no Happy Meals when I was a kid. However the Flaming Pit had a treasure box, where kids got to choose a prize, after dining with their parents. More on prizes later...

Corner Table!

Yay! We got a corner table. I sat with the food prep behind me and the conveyor belt beside me. I could also see some little eyes, peering at the moving food.

Mr. Fresh

There were a few helpful signs, like this one.

But even with this explanation about the special serving dish, called Mr. Fresh, I was still glad to have Heidi along to keep me from make a beginner mistake, like grabbing the whole container off the belt.

It was very exciting and slightly intimidating.

You Like, You Grab

Heidi let Don and me sit by the exciting revolving belt that wound around the restaurant. Don skillfully grabbed a plate of Soy Sake Marinated Salmon Nigiri. The lid popped up properly and he neatly placed the little $2.25-dish right on our table.

Cheers

Not everything was available on the moving belt. Sake, Udon, Ramen, Tempura and desserts could all be ordered from a food screen. A waiter initially greeted our table for any special requests.

Quick and Fresh

After our 25 minute wait, it was nice not having to wait for food. We saw what we liked and grabbed.

It was also nice to learn that Kura serves all organic foods, free of additives and MSG. I also was pleased to find out that there's a system for automatically disposing of the uneaten food plates, that for some reason don't get picked. So no worries about picking a food that's been lingering.

Eating with Pros

I was the only one at our table who has not eaten sushi in Japan. Don used to travel on business. Heidi and her husband Jamie, were engaged in Japan. Also, Don and Heidi share an odd college experience, 30+ years apart. Both spent a period of time at University of Michigan, eating dorm food only with chopsticks. I love dining with pros.

Nigiri...

It's hard to pass up some bright salmon and fresh tuna, when it rolls on by. We ended up eating lots of basic nigiri, but the rolls were tasty as well. The green plates were all $2.25, which seemed like such a bargain, but it's also easy to get carried away with the fun. That's kind of how I remember cafeterias as a kid. It's so easy to grab a lot!

A Giddy Diner

I obviously loved the little box that held my food. I was pretty excited about the whole concept of this place. I also seemed to be the only one looking around and snapping pics, like a tourist.

In fact I felt like I was a tourist on a trip. We live in Fort Bend County, which is ranked the most diverse U.S. county, in many studies. When I looked around, I could easily imagine that I was actually eating a meal in Japan. None of the other diners seemed to make a fuss over the exciting vibe. No one else seemed to be "learning the ropes".

Relaxed Staff

I turned around in my booth to peek at the "sushi makers" now and then. They seemed pretty laid back in the festive atmosphere. I should have paid closer attention to observe the system for adding and removing plates from the belt. For a moment, I amused myself with a thought of the iconic I Love Lucy episode. Except I pictured Lucy, stuffing her mouth full of salmon and shrimp, instead of chocolate!

Bikkura-Pon!

This was my first dining experience that involved a little game-like fun, at the table.

Above our table and the belt, we had our own colorful screen. There was a little animation first and then some words, encouraging us to "defeat him" by inserting more plates. Below the moving belt was the slot, where we inserted our empty green plates. Our plates became tokens to keep the story moving on the screen.

The Prize

Above the animation screen, was a clear box that held the round prize holders. I was glad we had 3 people since it took 15 plates to earn a prize. I felt like I was in Vegas when we inserted the 15th plate and the Bikurra-Pon released a red & green ball! Down the slide it came, landing in the plastic tray! Oh boy, a little stamper. It was pretty lame for over 35 dollars worth of sushi. But I didn't care. I was the kid that bought Cracker Jacks, just for the prize.

Share the Prize

What a fun food outing! It wasn't the absolute best sushi I've had, but it was the quickest and most entertaining!

Maybe next time I go, I can ride my bike.

It's close enough and that add to the playful dining theme. I could also leave the prize behind, like one person did. I pity the families with kids, begging the parents to purchase 15 more plates for another prize! Yikes.

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Hangar Kafe in Miller, Missouri

5/18/2018

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Detour on Route 66

I left Springfield, MO on a Monday in April. I had 2 days to drive home to Houston, so I meandered on Route 66 a bit.

By 11:30, I had a coffee headache. I had been so busy grinning over passing barns and vintage gas stations and old motor courts, that I'd forgotten to grab breakfast or coffee.

"A Must See"

This is the first sign that caught my eye. I was on a 2-lane road in the middle of nowhere. What was this sign pulling me towards? I pulled over and studied the sign's hot air balloon and airplanes.

Above the words, I saw the cute little design with knife, fork and spoon. I eagerly continued on, until I saw the next sign.

A Mirage?

This sight from my car window was almost too good to be true. I needed a restroom & coffee break and it looked like I could get that, right along with a little adventure!

I zoomed in for this photo. The rounded structures were actually much further away. I laughed out loud. It just seemed so whimsical, to come across this Oz-like image across the fields. Best of all, I was being invited by the signs to stop in!

Tables and Cars

I parked beside some work trucks and walked across a spacious patio with enough tables for a large crowd. There were a couple of small planes on green field and two sweet vintage cars under the shelter. I smiled and headed inside.

In the Hangar

I stepped through the doors and found the colorful dining area nearly empty. Roberta, in the pink sweatshirt, welcomed me in and I asked about coffee. Then I realized how hungry I was and asked if they were still serving breakfast.

Taking It In

She rushed off to check with the cook and I sat at one of the cute little diner tables and stared in every direction. Bright, planes and hot air balloons swooped above me. A runway, right beside my table, lead to the Men's Room. The women's room door was also painted with field and sky to fit in with the wall mural. There was no need for a TV, with all the amusement, but at least I got to see a little retro "Andy Griffith" along with my comfort food breakfast...which arrived not long after my coffee.

Perfect

I had no idea how hungry I was, until my plate was in front of me. I don't know about the rest of the food, but my simple scrambled egg breakfast was perfect. I was ready to devour my food, but heard a roar behind me.

Table with a View

I turned around towards the wall of glass, to see where the noise was coming from. Outside, one plane had landed and another was just starting for the grass runway. I grabbed my camera and left my plate.

Inside and Out

The planes outside were just as adorable as the ones decorating the restaurant ceiling. I spent a little time squinting into the noon sun, watching the plane activity.

Back inside, Roberta offered to reheat my breakfast, but I assured her, it was fine. I let her fill me in on the Kingsley Brothers instead. Kiman, Kaleb and Kaland are 4th generation farmers in the Miller, MO area. The 3 farmers and cropdusters, opened the cafe a number of years ago. Roberta told me their mom was helping in the kitchen at the moment. I saw her come out for a little break, at one point. Next to the Kafe Hangar, there was another hangar, where sky diving and crop dusting classes are held. What a hopping place!

Roberta served a few workmen who had stopped by. When a pilot headed from his plane towards the cafe, Roberta insisted on introducing me. "He might want to eat lunch with you." She added, as if she'd never served a woman eating by herself. I would have been happy to share my table, but the very nice pilot wasn't stopping to eat. I would have liked to have heard some of his stories. Of course, I could have shared a few myself.

I could have told about my 5-dollar flight lesson in 1975.

Or my hot air balloon ride, with a crash landing... Or my one time parachuting experience, with twisted lines..." He probably would have thought I'd made up those stories anyway.

Photo Covered Walls

After I finished my eggs, I wandered to the additional room, where private parties are often held. I studied the photos of tractors and crop dusters, skydivers and hot air balloons. A gentleman eating alone, struck up a conversation. He owned a horse ranch (I believe) and had taken up photography in more recent years. The photos were his and they were quite entertaining.

From Above

I loved this photo, taken from a plane, I can only assume. Seeing the photos made me wish I didn't live so far away. What fun to come back on a weekend and eat lunch, watching people jump from planes, or dancing to a live band in the evening.

Balloon Basket

When it was time to pay my $5.00 bill, I walked over to the hot air balloon basket where the cash register was held.

That's about the size of the basket that I was in, when it smacked ground and dragged through an oat field in 1974. Oh what fun, being reminded of some of my own past, sky-adventures!

A Quick Pic

Before heading out, I asked Roberta if I could get a quick pic. Next thing I knew, she was introducing me to Kayland and his friend. They graciously put up with the interruption. Then Roberta asked me to sign the guest book with my address, so I'd be on the mailing list.

Few Days Later

A few days later a card arrived in the mail. What a surprise! When I read the note, I learned "Bert" is Roberta's preferred name. And I learned that Bert has some pretty good drawing skills!

Back for Pie

After reading the note, I decided I will have to get back that way just to show Don this wonderful little Missouri oasis.

Also, I'll need to have some of Bert's pie!

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The Big Texan Steak Ranch

5/16/2018

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Amarillo, Texas

Last year, Don and I headed from Texas to Colorado and made a very special lunch stop in Amarillo.

After spotting numerous billboards along I-40, the Big Texan Cowboy came into view!

This big guy has been welcoming hungry travelers since 1960, when R. J. "Bob" Lee built the original restaurant on Route 66.

Traveling Cowboy

It must have been exciting to watch the big sign go up in 1960. But it might have been even more exciting, when the sign was moved by helicopter to a new location in 1970.

Relocation was Bob's answer, when there were concerns about the construction of I-40, rerouting travelers away from The Mother Road. Bob was smart enough to buy land along the future I-40, so they were able to open up an even bigger and better Big Texan Steak Ranch.

Time for Lunch!

This is how the bright, yellow building looked when we pulled up on a Tuesday, in early June. I didn't have to fight any tourists to pose with "Big Moo"!

In 1970

If we'd arrived on opening day 47 years ago, we would have parked in the unpaved lot. The flags in this old photo make me think there was probably lots of dust whipping around that lot.

Feeling Giddy

Luckily, Don and I were both on the same page about this lunch stop. We were more than ready to take in the fun of this iconic place. This kind of dining adventure doesn't go over, if one is being dragged along.

Don is not usually one to put his face in the hole, for a photo. But we were open for a silly good time and he was happy to pose with his face above the cartoonish steak.

Game for a 72-Ounce Steak?

As soon as we stepped into the carnival style interior, we learned about the 4.5 pound steak challenge. Don and I were up for a good time, but neither of us had any desire to break records. Evidently the 1st place record went to a diner who ate the steak in 4 minutes. Yuck.

Festive, but Quiet

If it had been July or a weekend, I'm sure the place would have been swarming. I was pretty content, not dealing with crowds. If there had been more people, I might have missed some of the details... like those dandy saddles, lined up along the shooting gallery.

Off to the Dining Room

Don and I headed past the fudge counter and the stuffed grizzly, to get to the dining hall. Gals in cowboy hats and bolo ties, greeted us with Texas twangs. We were lead into the rustic, 2-story dining hall.

Cowboy Hats and Critters

The western-style dining room had lots to look at. I loved the rock-covered wall by the entrance. I wanted to climb that wall and check on the bears and moose, up there.

The staff was easily spotted in their cowboy attire. The tables were only about half full, so we got speedy service.

Fur Covered Tables

Don and I were seated at the end of a long community table, covered in cowhide. Well, it looked that way. It was really a plastic table cloth.

Don ordered the "Whoop Your Donkey" Double IPA, "triple dry, hopped with a malty backbone." Since the beer was actually brewed at Big Texan, I should have suggested they change the name. I happen to adore donkeys.

Smiling

I can't remember what's behind that Mona Lisa smile. Maybe Don took a picture when I was listening to David Waddle, the strolling cowboy singer.

Musician and More

We had a nice chat with David when he came to our table. Don requested a song by Bob Wills, since we had just traveled through Turkey, Texas... "Home of Bob Wills". David was happy to. He'd just been to the Bob Wills Festival in Turkey. He'd played many roles at the festival... Pit Master, Musician and Dancer. We didn't get to see him dance or cook. He did a nice job singing, though.

Love Them Dishes!

Don and I don't do huge feasting when on the road. You don't want your driver (or navigator) sleepy. Don just had a side of chili and a pulled pork sandwich. The plate was the exciting part to me. I would have bought one of those hefty china dishes, if I could have afforded it. They were $32. in the gift shop.

Potato Pan

I had the 5-dollar potato, served in a sturdy little pan. That was a pretty lame choice for dining in a steakhouse, but that's pretty much all I wanted. It was tasty.

Upstairs

Before hitting the road, we wandered up to the second level to get a view of the tables. It was a good place for people watching. I was a little jealous of the kiddos I spotted. It looked like they were given little cowboy hats with their kiddie meals. Or did they all just have parents who said "okay" in the gift shop?

Big Moo

When I said good-bye to Big Moo, I was reminded of my mom and how much she would have loved this dining adventure.

Mom's nickname with her own 4 kids, was Moo. She also was a big fan of curious cafes and roadside diners. Moo would have loved this place.

If only Moo had been with us, she would have been the one posing with Big Moo!

Next Time

I love an oddball dining adventure, but I also love my curious motel/hotel adventures. I had no idea Big Texan had it's own motel options! This motel had a super corny western facade that I pretty much loved. And of course the Big Cowboy was towering above! Maybe on another road trip, we'll stop for the night AND devour a little steak!

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