**** By train or plane I would find a way to get to this restaurant

*** I would drive anywhere in the city to get to this restaurant

** If I am in the neighborhood I would go to this restaurant

* If I got a fl at tire in front of this restaurant, I might go inside

Central Park

I have friends that own restaurants - - Jamie from Ranchero, Robin from Robin’s BBQ, and Tommy from Mijare’s, just to name a few. So writing about Central Park in Pasadena could be a little touchy. After all, owner Dave Yost and I have been together at many a UCLA football game at the Rose Bowl. When Dave told me about his plans to open Central Park he suggested that it was going to be a little of this and a little of that - a little of Marston’s, a little of Crocodile and a little bit of Houston’s. I just hoped it wasn’t a little bit of the Shakers. No, now don’t get me wrong! Shakers has made many people very happy for years. But, I was eager to see Dave follow through on his promise. Sure Dave, pretty label but Shakers food? I waited a few weeks for the paint to dry, and then made my way to Shakers/uh ah I mean Central Park named right after the park across the street. Without further delay this is probably one of the best newcomers to the dining scene in Pasadena in the past four or five years. I put it into the category of the aforementioned restaurants without hesitation. And “tell you the truth of the matter” (my ex boss used you to say that and I hated it) is that Central Park might just be a cut above. O en I think that the lunch scene in Pasadena is just that - a scene - to be ‘seen’ and yea the food is OK; guess who I saw at lunch? Back to reality! My wise old mentor once said to try the soup first and if the soup passes, continue on. I ordered the Crab Bisque ($4.95), it was good! Move on from there. Here are a few recommendations from Central Park – Caesar Salad ($4.75), make sure you ask for the croutons tossed with the dressing; the USDA Prime Flat Iron Steak ($16), the Braised boneless short ribs ($16). I have enjoyed the Eggplant Sandwich for lunch many times and being that creature of habit I will order it again ($7.75). Other menu items - pizza, pasta salads, and fish are all in the medium price range. Serving size is enormous - like the Claim jumper, but not as small like Spago - Just right! All in All a good experience - wines by the glass, and wine-specials by the glass and bottle. One complaint that I have and other friends have agreed is the wine prices; although they seem to be fair, the ‘special of the day’ might be priced over the average on the menu. Make sure you ask the price before agreeing to a Pinot or Merlot by the glass.

***Worth The Drive From Anywhere in The City

May is National Hamburger Month. So I decided to do a round up of the Best and dare I say the worst, (let’s call them sub par burgers) in the San Gabriel Valley. My criteria are simple, no rules… It doesn’t matter the cost or how many locations a restaurant may have. Now onto to the Best of The Best.

Grade: B :There is always a line of cars waiting for these Burgers, 1792 E. Walnut Ave., Pasadena

Grade: A :One of the few places that grinds its meat daily, 913 E. California, Pasadena (626) 795-1123

Grade: C :Yikes, why call it Hamburger Hamlet, sorry just too plain for me, 214 S. Lake Ave., Pasadena (626) 449-8520

Grade: B :That’s not a bad thing to say about LA’s Favorite Burger, E. Walnut St./Craig, Pasadena

Domenico’s- The Best Pizza Around?

Just reading the headline I am sure that many of you have your favorite pizza joints in and around the San Gabriel Valley. Once I was known as the Pizza Czar, my car even sported the license plates

to prove it. Pizza is a true passion and everyone has their opinion just like sex, politics and religion. My daughter Lauren likes Dominos and Little Caesars, I personally cringe with the thought. Domenico’s in East Pasadena has been serving up Pizza Pie since the early 60’s when Rose and Dominic Bitonto opened a small deli. Since then, the sons have taken the reigns on this family owned business. Is it the best? Well, I think it is pretty darn close. Last week I was in the mood for Pizza, so after nixing my daughters wants we headed to Domenico’s. First up we ordered the anti pasta salad for one at $5.25 (easily enough for two). Pizza Time!! I ordered a medium pizza with half bacon bits and half pepperoni ($12.20). To me I like the hint and smell of sourdough and lots of cheese. I enjoyed the pie immensely. Pizza Rating: - e Crust - 9. - e Sauce - 8, Value - 10, Taste - 9, Cheesey - 8 Overall - 9 A very good neighborhood pizzeria. Domenico’s offers the usual Italian Faire including pizza, spaghetti, garlic bread, salads. Beer and Wine Worth Checking Out: Randy’s Calabrese Special ($14.60 to $21.95) - cheese toping with artichoke hearts, broccoli, tomatoes and margarita pepperoni. Heads Up: - e restaurant closes for summer vacation; call ahead for hours. So where was the pizza invented? According to Pizza Today Magazine it was invented in Italy and brought to the US via New York. We now have Chicago, California and New York style Pizza; there is even a restaurant in the valley that imports their water from New York. Italians claim that a margarita pizza is the only authentic way to order a pizza - too boring for me!!

 Fredos Phillys - No Joke . . Philly Cheese Steak Sandwich!

The French Fries

Robin’s BBQ

395 N. Rosemead Pasadena, (626) 351-8885

Tops Burgers

1792 E. Walnut (626) 584-0244

Islands

3533 E. Foothill Blvd. Pasadena (626) 351-6543

In-N-Out

In Arcadia, 420 N. Santa Anita, In Pasadena, 2114 E. Foothill Blvd.

Front Runner

From time to time I have been known to put a couple of dollars down at the Race Track. It started 20 years ago when I was delivering groceries for Jurgensen’s Grocery Store. I would use my lunch hour to get to the infield and grab a hot dog and a coke and bet on the first couple of races. I still go to the Race Track at Santa Anita, but now I hang out at the Front Runner. e restaurant is only open for lunch, but the menu is sophisticated and I don’t think you can even get a hot dog. Overlooking the finish line, Front Runner comfortably seats over 500 guests for lunch. A floor-to-ceiling glass wall allows guests to view the picturesque San Gabriel Mountains while watching live thoroughbred races. Every entrée is prepared to order from two glass-enclosed exhibition kitchens positioned on either side of the restaurant. Desserts are made in full-view of guests from a separate exhibition pastry kitchen. e 215-foot long serpentine shaped bar, which runs through the middle of the restaurant, seats 100. Service is right on the money (get it?) I enjoy Michael and Mitch, both professionals and always a good story to tell. e seasonal lunch menu features innovative contemporary California cuisine utilizing flavors and ingredients indigenous to our region. Menu items include Chesapeake Bay Jumbo Lump Crabcake (my favorite) served with Ginger Slaw and Remoulade or Pepper Cucumber Namasu and Miso Vinaigrette; also the Roasted Pacific Sword  fish with a pineapple grapefruit relish is a winner. Prices range from $6 to $24. What to order: Maryland Crab Cake, this is the real deal; they use lump crab meat, not shredded. It costs a little more but it is worth it. Desserts are all housemade - a real plus!! Heads up: ere is a charge for parking, admission and betting of course. Closed Monday and Tuesday. Front Runner at Santa Anita Racetrack For Reservations please call: (626) 574-1035. For complete menu and details: www.santaanita.com

Fu-Shing- Lucky Star

*** Three Stars

Happy Hour (McCormick and Schmick’s, Mijares, Islands’, Madre’s Restaurant, Il Fornaio)

Hurry Curry- Hurry for Some Curry

What comes to mind when you think about Japanese food? If you’re like me, Sushi and Tempura come to mind. Well did you know that ‘curry’ is actually the ‘Comfort Food’ of Japan? I found a restaurant that offers Japanese ‘Comfort Food’ right here in the southland. Hurry Curry started in Jakarta Indonesia and has opened a location in Old Pasadena. It is one of my favorite restaurants to dine at. Why? It is relatively cheap, it is clean and the food is above average and out of the ordinary. Hurry Curry was given an impressive 9.3 by citysearch.com. and is a favorite of yelpers. When I go to an ethnic restaurant I am always comforted that I am in the right place when I see natives at the restaurant. What to order at Hurry Curry? A must is the Fried Chicken ($5.75) - it’s my favorite and is served with a chicken dressing on the side. I could eat these nonstop!! Some additional suggestions are the Fried Shrimp Curry with Spinach ($9.50), the Japanese staple Chicken Curry ($8.50) and the very colorful Tarako Ika ($8.95). Also a must is the Lobster Bisque - one of the better soups that I have had anywhere - this must come from the owners’ origins in the seafood industry. The restaurant has a happy hour from 3 PM to 6 PM where there are Sake Martinis for $2, $2 appetizers and $2 beer. If you are a beer drinker, like I am, this a good deal. Something unique here is that they have curbside to-go service available. There is no sushi on the menu just heart warming and filling ‘Comfort Food’. Plus: Low prices, happy hour, usually immediate seating. Minus: Parking is a hassle and the Pomegranate Martini is out of season – next time.

Another Chef Knows discovery Three Stars

Japon Bistro

You ever wondered what dish would be your last? You know the old standard – if you were on a deserted island and death was imminent what would you order … Steak - Lobster - Sushi? Hmmm? there are many Sushi restaurants in e San Gabriel Valley and (much like Politics and Religion) everyone seems to have their own opinion. One of my favorite is Japon Bistro in ‘ e Heart of Pasadena.’ Why? I think it is because the restaurant just makes me feel so comfortable. Japon Bistro Opened in 2003. Owner Clarence ‘Koji’ Wong is always at the front and offers a friendly hello to all who walk in. ere are no happy-hour specials or buy-one-get-one free that other sushi restaurants offer as loss-leaders. ‘Koji’ tells me that the fish at his restaurant is always fresh and prices are very competitive. ‘Koji’ goes down to the fish market at least four times a week and selects many of his specials right there that morning. ‘Koji’ showed me pictures of himself with a huge Blue Fin Tuna. So what is Japon Bistro? ‘Koji’ explains - it is a Japanese Fusion Restaurant… part Sushi Bar, part Japanese and with an acclaimed Sake Menu - thus Fusion. For me, I always head right to the Sushi Bar and start off  with the Tuna Hand roll ($5.50); Master Sushi Chef ‘Ichero’ is, as the kids say, the ‘Bomb.’ Here are a few of my favorite dishes - Seared Albacore with ponzu sauce ($12); Seared Albacore Sashami Salad ($9); Salmon Skin Handroll ($5.50); and the Drunken Rock Shrimp ($10). For additional menu items plus current prices, log onto www.japonbistro.com. the menu offers all of your traditional favorites - California Rolls, Dynamite, Sea Urchin, etc. But if you dig a little deeper at Japon Bistro, you’ll be very pleased. Why go? Japon Bistro offers a real comfortable setting and friendly service; do yourself a favor, don’t be in a hurry at Japon Bistro. e restaurant has been described as romantic; it is perfect for a special occasion and they do have plenty of items for kids or the vegans in your party. What to Avoid? Parking - my suggestion is to do one loop in front of the restaurant and then go directly behind the restaurant and park in the lot. Yes, there is validation available.

***Worth the Drive from Anywhere in the City

Luigi Ortega- North meets South

Maria’s Italian Kitchen - Hastings Ranch

You know, darn it, I am a creature of habit. I have had lunch at Maria’s Italian Kitchen four times and on three of the visits I ordered the same item… The Risotto with spicy shrimp and roasted corn . On my third visit I ordered the Classic Albacore Tuna Hero Sandwich. Let’s not spend too much time on the sandwich, I sure didn’t! If you order a pizza for lunch be prepared to be patient - daughter Lauren D. did and we were late getting back to school. I’ll take the blame for that one. My fourth lunch visit to Maria’s found me ordering the (you guessed it) Risotto with spicy shrimp and roasted corn. My waiter was Sergio and he explained to me that the Risotto is pre-cooked. I asked “out of a box?” He said “No, just pre-cooked” - $9.95 at lunch, more for dinner at $16.95. I have ordered Risotto for upwards of $30 at other restaurants. Again, darn it! My job is to order across the menu, and I always order the same thing. I’m digressing! Maria’s menu price range is from $7.99 to $17.99. Maria’s menu boasts Neighborhood Style - the kind of place that was right down the street from you if you grew up in Hoboken NJ. Well, I grew up in Pasadena, of good ol USA. In mid sentence my Caesar Salad ($8.99) is brought to me. As I lay down my pen and start chomping on my salad, I look for something negative to say. Why? Because the Italians have stolen/borrowed the Salad that was actually invented in Tijuana Mexico. I can’t find a thing wrong; in fact they even tossed the croutons with the dressing. I yell across the room to Sergio, “Thumbs up my good man.” He begs me to calm down and asks if I would like to try one of Maria’s many Martinis. It’s still lunch, so I decline. This is my way to tell you they have a full bar at Maria’s. You’ll catch on to these hints in the next few articles. The restaurant has black & white checkered table cloths and the walls have murals of fountains and mountains. Here comes the Risotto - we’ll talk again next week.

Summary: Lots of happy diners, Full Bar, All major credit cards, Lunch and Dinner, No corkage fee, and Over 12 wines by the glass

Service: A   Food : B     Value: B    Feel Good Feeling: B

Panda Inn

A day doesn’t go by, when someone asks the question, “Peter, what is your favorite restaurant?” My response is always “For what type of cuisine?” ere are many great restaurants in Southern California so let’s narrow it down to the San Gabriel Valley. I love going to a restaurant that is friendly, clean, good food and one that I don’t have to stop at the ATM first. Panda Inn in Pasadena. I have been a regular there for the past 15 years. I just enjoy everything about it. Are there better Chinese restaurants in Chinatown or on the Westside? Arguably yes! But friendly, clean and good food - it’s the Panda Inn for me. What to order? Here are a few of my favorites. e Phoenix Chicken ($12.25), and at $12.75 each, the Tea Smoked Duck and the Kon Pao San Yan - this plate has beef, chicken and shrimp; all stir-fried. Another plus about the Panda Inn is that you can order half dishes for many of the entrees. Honestly, the menu doesn’t differ from your favorite Chinese restaurant but I trust the Panda Inn to be consistent. Another plus is the bartender, again I use the word ‘arguably’; I guess it’s my political correctness settling into my reviews - the bartender Gus is a riot! Always a funny joke and he makes a great Mai Tai. Speaking of which, if you are not driving, check out the Sunday Brunch. For a little more then $21, you can have anything on the menu ‘plus’ two of those great Mai Tai’s. It must be good; every time I am there for brunch, I see Jamie from Ranchero Restaurant there chowing-down. Panda Inn’s kitchen is ably run by Chef Huang; he is the Master Chef for all Panda Inns, but uses the Pasadena location to perfect his art. Brief History: Panda Inn opened over 27 years ago on what is now the parking lot; the restaurant has been renovated a few times over the years and has spawned 900 children known as the ‘Panda Express’. What to order: e Phoenix Chicken is my favorite - sliced chicken that is crispy on the outside with a tangy sesame seed sauce. I always start with the Wonton Soup that is large enough for sharing but there are no half-orders (my only complaint). I am sure that the most popular dish is the Orange Flavored Chicken, I will let you decide. What to avoid: White Rice - the calories will eat you up, just kidding! ere are times that the wait can be long; not as bad as the Cheesecake Factory, but, long enough. Make sure you call ahead for the wait time.

***Stars/****Stars for Brunch

Pasadena Sandwich Company

Is a Sandwich Shop worth a review ? Sure. I know a lot of you enjoy making one at home. So, where do I like to go for a good sandwich? Two of my favorite places in Pasadena are in East Pasadena. One being Whole Foods, yes they make a great sandwich, and you can pretty much direct the maker to fix it any way you like. the sandwiches run about $7.50. The second spot I like is  The Pasadena Sandwich Shop. You can sit down or go right to the deli case. I usually go directly to the case. Steve the owner and head sandwich maker is always an ear shot away so after ordering the sandwich from one of the employees you can see Steve making your sandwich. The Pasadena Sandwich Shop has done what Jerry’s Deli and Ben’s Deli weren’t able to do. Stay in business. The restaurant itself is small; in fact it is located in a small office building, sandwiched between a dry cleaner and a real estate office and across from Bed Bath and Beyond. The prices range between $6 and $8. I have never finished an entire sandwich on my own. Here are a few of my recent lunches: The Big “B” Roast Beef - cheddar, lettuce, tomato with Russian dressing on a French Roll; The “Chicago” Corned Beef - Pastrami, Swiss, cole slaw (it’s triple decker on rye); and again, good luck in finishing one!!! The Sheepherder - Corned Beef, Pastrami, Turkey, Salami, Swiss - it’s another triple decker on Rye. You can mix and match meats and breads or you can even order “Trust the Cook” whatever Steve feels like making. My suggestion is bring a friend to share. Platters are available, and the restaurant offers chips and soda. Eat In or take out is available. Peter’s Tip: they have spicy beaver mustard, it’s a must!! All and all a pretty good place for lunch

Pasadena Sandwich Company 259 Sierra Madre Villa, Pasadena (626) 578-1616 Hours: Open daily at 9 AM closes at 3PM No dinner. Saturday opens at 11AM closes at 3PM.

Red Lion

The title of this story is Pub Grub. It rhymes but does it match? I have been writing/thinking about this for a few weeks now; I have visited a few restaurants that I would put in the category of having pub grub. I have visited Lucky Baldwin’s, Yard House, Crown City Brewery, and Brits and have fond memories of the ‘Old’ John Bull on Fair Oaks. I finally put it all together after a visit to the Red Lion Tavern in Glendale. I was trying to compare apples to oranges and yes - Pub Grub to a Steak House. Unfair! The underlying bond at all of the pub grub places is an unpretentious good time. The comedy about my search for the ‘good food’ was that in all the times that I mentioned, the food was just okay and at a certain pub the common reply was, “yea but did you try the fish and chips?” Okay, No! I didn’t. Either fish and chips are incredibly easy to make or these restaurants all get their cod from the same purveyor. The star at all of the above restaurants is the wide selection of beer - dark, light, bottled, filtered or on tap. The Red Lion Tavern in Glendale opened in 1962 and up until 3 years ago was owned by the same owners. The restaurant is two levels with bars on each level. My party enjoyed potato pancakes, schnitzel, a sausage platter, Hungarian Goulash and Beef Rouladen. Go to their web site www.redliontavern.net for the complete menu. Prices range from $10 to $20. Portions are large , and very suitable for sharing. Ask for extra pickles Reasons to go: Live music Thursday thru Sunday Night. Weather permitting, go to the upstairs patio and enjoy a cold beer with friends. Menu lends itself to sharing; Sausage Platter with Knackwurst, Bratwurst and Bockwurst. Atmosphere is very relaxed. Reasons to stay away: Sorry I don’t smoke, but you can stay at the bottom floor bar to stay clear of the smokers Service: I give the service thumbs up; Tina was pleasant and attentive; in the upstairs patio the bar maid was overworked and told us immediately to go to the bartender for our drinks. Okay… We did and Scott took good care of us. I have been told regulars get better service.

Bottom Line: I am sure you have your favorites; let me know if I missed your favorite pub?

***Worth the Drive from Anywhere in the City

Robin’s BBQ and Grill - The King of BBQ

One of my personal favorite foods is BBQ. Not oven-roasted like Tony Roma’s. No, BBQ - Barbeque that is made ‘low and slow’ - low heat and slowly cooked. There is only one authentic BBQ in The San Gabriel Valley; you got it, it is Robin’s Woodfire BBQ and Grill in Hastings Ranch. Owner and head politician Robin Salzer has perfected the BBQ at his namesake restaurant. Robin hails from Milwaukee and opened Robin’s 25 years ago this month. Robin, will readily admit it took a few months to perfect the BBQ at Robin’s. The original menu had everything from breakfast, to pizza, to nachos and a little bit of the BBQ. About five years ago Robin made the decision to go strictly BBQ. “Everyone in the neighborhood thought I was crazy”, Robin explains. But, “I decided to stay the Course.” The result is some of the best BBQ in Southern California. The awards in the past five years include ‘Best Of City Search,’ numerous ‘Best of Awards’ by local newspapers and ‘write ups’ in the LA Times and Westways Magazine. Depending on the meat, each entrée is cooked between 4 to 6 hours on wood. The sauce is only put on the meat about twenty seconds before the meat is done. This is to avoid burning the outside texture of the meat. Prices range from $8.95 for salads to $27.95 for the ultimate ‘Garbage Can Combo’ that is big enough for two people; it includes chicken, beef ribs, tri tip, baby back, spare ribs and a beef link. Specials: Every Tuesday and Sunday nights, kids eat ½-price with each adult entrée. Wednesday and Friday nights, Robin’s offers a Fish Fry with all the fixings, Cole slaw and fries; and, seconds if you’re still hungry. No Sharing. What to order: The Beef Ribs are a must!! The Four Rib dinner is $17.95 and the Seven Rib dinner is

$21.95. Robin tells me the ribs are notched, thus insuring extra meat. For dessert order the peach cobbler - it’s house-made. What to avoid: Mondays, the restaurant is closed. They don’t take reservations on the weekends so I suggest making the visit on a Thursday night. No separate checks. TV’s in the bar are pre-historic.

****By train or plane I would find a way to get to this restaurant

Sho Gun Restaurant

To coin the old Beach Boys song; The Sho Gun Restaurant in Hasting Ranch is “Fun, Fun, Fun” and let me add Fun! It is a Japanese Teppanyaki-Style Restaurant. What is Teppanyaki? Teppan means Iron Grill. If you are a seafood or meat lover Sho Gun Japanese Restaurant offers everything to satisfy all the members of your group. At Sho Gun you are seated around the Grill like a horseshoe, with the chef in the center leading the show. The chefs wear tall hats and cook the food right in front of you with spatulas and knives swirling about. These chefs more than just flips your food around. Whole onions are swiftly sliced and made into a volcano with the steam coming out of the top, then with a sound of a choo-choo train as the chef pushes the volcano along the tracks with   flashing lights accompanying the movement. It’s almost dinner theatre, and always a fun experience for kids. I recommend bringing a group of friends to join you in the party atmosphere. Two reasons : It makes the experience more delightful, plus if you’re the shy type you will be with other customers in a setting where making new friends is fun. The menu offers shrimp, New York Steak, Chicken, Lobster and my buddy Kirk’s favorite the Salmon ($22.50). Sho Gun isn’t cheap. Heck, with all the lights, grills and chefs the overhead must be enormous. Prices range from $16.95 to $39.95. My favorite is the Mikado (Filet Mignon and Lobster $31.50) and e Ninja with Crab Legs for ($34.95). ere is a child’s menu in the $10 range. The lunch menu is a bit more reasonable in price and offers pretty much the same menu. There is a small but serviceable Sushi Bar and adjacent seating for those who want a nice quiet evening. But Why? The action is in the Main Room! Suggestion: A great place for a party, if it’s your birthday, they put a funny hat on you and all the servers sing to you with one clapping on a tambourine. Avoid: Make sure you make reservations, the weekends are very busy. Most of the chefs are very talented; however they won’t let you pick your server or chef. I wish they would. The Mai Tai’s need a little improvement, but, they have a full bar and a good Sake selection.

Smoke House Restaurant

The Los Angeles Times used to run an article called “First Impression”. It was a review usually on a restaurant that had just opened, and you know the paint was still wet. I thought it was fair because usually when we review a restaurant, the reviewer will (should) visit a restaurant several times before actually writing the review. Hadn’t been to the Smoke House since they changed owners; recently some friends invited me out the Smoke House in Toluca Lake, the restaurant has been around for years and was a favorite of John Wayne in the early 70’s and now George Clooney is the resident celebrity. The Smoke House is your classic red leather booth Steakhouse, mildly dark, seats over a 130 and is divided by a large bar. The bar itself is the place to dine, on most nights, there is music. On my visit, Irene & Phil performed. The music is enjoyable with retro sounds of Bobby Darrin and Frank Sinatra. The crowd is 30+, just perfect for me!!! Martinis are served old school, a side car kept chilled on a bed of crushed ice. Way cool, daddy O!!! The menu itself, again is classic steakhouse faire- Steaks, Chicken, Fish, and Prime Rib. All reasonable prices in the mid $20 to low $30 range. You know steaks are now pushing upwards of $40. I ordered the New York Steak $29.95, also ordered at our table was a Shrimp Cocktail $13.95 and Steak Tips. My buddy C-Lo enjoyed the special: blackened pork chops. He said they were way thumbs up! The menu also boosts ‘world famous’ Garlic Bread, it comes in a basket for $5.95. I got to tell you I am not sure what makes it ‘famous’? Maybe just a bad night but the bread just wasn’t that well… famous. I thought it was funny that my hosts told me at the end of the evening that the best steakhouse was Chez Nous down the street. All and all a pretty cool way to spend an evening. But if you are looking for a great steak, I can suggest a dozen other places. Will I be back? Yes, for a Martini and to listen to the music Look For: Beat The Clock Specials, get there at 4 PM and get 25 % off regular dinner prices.

Stories From The Sandwich Islands (Part 1)

I had not been to Honolulu for over twenty years but remembered it as a beautiful city with palm trees, tourists and t-shirts vendors everywhere, and with many hotels built in the 50’s. Today Honolulu, at least the downtown area, reminds me very much like a Junior Beverly Hills. Yes. Coach, LV, Nordstroms, many fine Jewelry Shops have all set up camp in Honolulu. Even ‘The Ala Moana Shopping Center’ has gone upscale. You’ll find the 1st Floor Food Court featuring over 50 restaurants in one area offering Korean, Japanese, Chinese, BBQ and rotisserie chicken. The 2nd through the 4th Floor shopping areas have Tommy Bahama’s, Coach, DKNY, and Chanel. You get the picture; all the comforts of home right there in Honolulu. Why? I was told that Honolulu actually attracts more Japanese visitors than us Angelenos. Where to Dine? If you’re home sick The Island offers many restaurants that you’d find right here - - - Yard House, Island’s, Subway, Panda Express; Roy’s has two locations in Honolulu. I steered clear of those and looked for a little authenticity on a very changing landscape. I was later told by my gym mate “Bic,” that Roy’s was indeed the real deal and that I missed out. Oh well!! Here are my Top Ten restaurants of The Oahu Island concentrating on Honolulu. No order…

Holokai Grill 226 Lewers St. - 2nd Floor; Tasty Sweet Potato Fries (808) 924-7245

Tiki’s End of Kalakaua 2570 Kalakaua (808) 923-8454; Ocean View

Uncle Bob’s More of a night club / slash restaurant

Shore Bird Located on the bottom floor of the Outrigger Hotel; you cook your own food. A great family place right on the Beach (Editors Pick) (808) 922-2887

Bali By The Sea Located at The Hilton Hawaiian Village; not your average hotel restaurant (808) 941-2254

Big Kahuna Pizza Leeward Honolulu; (better pizzas around) order the Sumo Pizza (808) 833-5588

Roy’s Restaurant (Bic’s pick) Opened in 1988, Chef Roy Yamaguchi now has over thirty restaurants throughout the US.

Teddy’s Bigger Burgers Classic Burgers, great late night munchies fixer (808) 732-4834

Mai Tais At the Royal Hawaiian Hotel (808) 923-7311; low-keyed hang-out

Eggs n’ Things Leeward Honolulu; a local hang-out for breakfast but also open on Sat at 11 PM (at night) and serves till the afternoon (808) 949-0820

My report is that there are many good restaurants in the area. Great? Well, that may be a matter of opinion. Check back here next week and I will give you tips on getting around, places to stay, and what to wear.

Stories From The Sandwich Islands (Part 2)

Hope you had a chance to read last week’s column as I went over the top ten Restaurants in and around the City Of Honolulu. If not, you can get to www.mvobserver.com and catch up on that article, plus the more than 15 other reviews in our archives. I found that on my last three trips to Hawaii I ended up not having to even wear half of those clothes that I had packed. For the ladies this might not be the best advice, but for you gents, trust me, Three pair of Bermuda shorts, a few T-shirts, a golf shirt and your best Hawaiian Shirt will do. If you need to buy another T-Shirt or clothes, there are bargain shirts (good quality) at e ABC Store; speaking of which, no need to pack sun tan lotion, razors or any other sundries. ere are plenty of ABC Stores throughout the Island and I find the prices very reasonable. It’s a perfect place to do your gift shopping on the last day of your vacation. Getting around Oahu is a breeze. No need to rent a car unless you are very familiar with the Island or if you really have your heart set on a car. Another suggestion, most of the major resorts, Hilton Village or the Sheraton have a car agency at the hotel. So, skip the hassle of taking a shuttle from the Airport to e Car agency port. Get to your hotel first and then make the plans. We took the Trolley on four or five occasions; I found the trolley to be on time and the price is just $2 each way. Planning on a day trip? Again, the major hotels can arrange a pick-up for about $20 round trip. is good for the Humailia Bay or Pearl Harbor. Get to Pearl Harbor early, it gets very busy in the afternoon, and try to avoid the weekends.

Where to stay? Ahhh very important! My daughter Lauren and I stayed at the Hilton Hawaiian Village. Very nice grounds, entertainment just about every night, four pools and many top notch restaurants right on the grounds. Coffee lovers-The Hilton has a Starbucks on the property. Note of Caution: You really need to do just a little bit of research to find the hotel that is right on the beach, near the beach or blocks away from the beach. It is up to your own preference and budget. Tip: Many websites have user ratings and it is a great way to get opinions of previous visitors. Yahoo Travel and Travelocity both offer this service.

Taylor’s Steakhouse- Break the Piggy Bank

**** Three and a half stars

Okay Trojans and Bruins . . . it’s tailgate time. The great debate starts? No! We all know that the “Bruins” own this town. The real debate is, is it charcoals or propane? For Backyard Q’ing and tailgating I prefer charcoal. Here are a few tips to get you going in the right direction for this Football Season

A: My way is if you can put your hand over the fire for more than five seconds your coals aren’t ready.

A: First of all the easiest way is to keep the meat off the flame; I put an ice cube right on the middle of the burger and that keeps the inside juicy.

A: Putting the sauce on too soon is a sure fire way to burn or to singe the outside of the meat. I suggest using a seasoning salt like Lawry’s and then putting the sauce on about 20 seconds before you take off the meat from your Bar B Q.

A: The one advantage that propane has is that you can control the temperature; I really believe in the low and slow method for cooking. Always have a spray bottle of water handy to keep the coals from getting too hot!!

Here are a few places that offer you assistance with all of your needs for tailgating:

Robin’s - 395 N. Rosemead Pasadena (626) 351-8885 offers BBQ in trays for easy pick up.

Smart and Final - three locations in Pasadena - a true friend to every tailgater, plenty of ice on hand.

Chick’s Sporting Goods - 3359 E. Foothill Blvd Pasadena - Team Blankets, T-Shirts, flags and hats, plus other fun favorite-team stuff .

Tipping- Part 1

I hope the headline grabbed your attention. Tipping is well, to insure good service. But wait, to insure good service in advance? Only at Starbuck’s would that make any sense. Very few times have I gone to a restaurant and actually tipped in advance. Opening day at The Race Track at Del Mar is the only occasion I can even remember having to tip in advance. The reason is there are very few seats available for the overflow crowd. Thus, the maitre’d just takes the tip and that really doesn’t insure great service at all. Let’s get straight to it. When at a restaurant, you tip on the speed and accuracy of service not on the food. So with that being said, let’s continue on. I have heard that tipping at a fancy restaurant and tipping at a coffee shop are different. Hogwash!!! These are my tips for tipping - not necessarily the way I tip. I even give 10% for really bad service. Seems with my picture in this paper and on my TV show “Th e Chef Knows” that I might get a bad rep from the Server Syndicate. Here are my suggestions for you. Again, no matter where you are:

Fair to medium service 12 to 14 %

Good to Better then Average 15 to 18%

Great Service 20%

Can’t figure the whole percentage on tipping. Best way is to just double the tax. Let me answer a few other questions. Valet Parking… If there is no charge and it’s a tip only, I suggest at least $5, again depending on speed of service. What if there is a $5 fee? I will give at least $1 extra and maybe even $3 if my car is brought to me quickly. How about Wine or a drink at the bar? A full bottle of a $10 wine takes as much energy as a bottle of Dom Perignon to open. So, if the bartender keeps my glass full and clean and if the wine is kept cold and is poured for me, I suggest 10 to 12% with a minimum of $3 for the bartender. Have Kids? Sure I do. Sometimes they make a mess, throw food and crayons on the floor. I always leave the busboy at least $3!!! I f you don’t, well you could consider cleaning it yourself.

Tipping- Part 2

Let’s review a few of last weeks tipping suggestions. If you’re not sure of the percentage to tip, just double the tax. That usually makes everyone, including your server, happy. Remember, the server doesn’t make the food; so if the food wasn’t so hot, but the service was accurate and speedy, don’t penalize the server. You must tip for service. One last reminder - - - kids! If your kids make a mess (sometimes they do) leave the busboy a few extra bucks. Come on, don’t be cheap; servers rely on your generosity to earn a living. Some people tip heavily to prove that they are a big shot or to impress their friends. Regardless, I think you’ll agree that we all work hard for our money and sometimes it’s hard to part with it on tips. But, believe you me, the best places to tip are the places you go to most oft en - your favorite car wash/restaurant/hotel. Remember we are rewarding those who take care of us. Speaking of Hotels here are a few suggestions for tipping at your favorite Hotel. On a recent stay at the Ritz Carlton here are few of my recent tips.

    Hotel Concierge: If the concierge arranges for tickets to a local show or a sporting event I suggest a $10 to $20 gratuity, depending on the venue. Restaurant reservations outside the hotel, usually $10 will be appreciated.

    Room Service: In many hotels the tip is added to the bill. However, depending on speed of service, add another $2. I usually leave $10 for the cleaning person if I left a bit of a mess.

    Bellhop: $2 per bag and an extra $5 if they arranged for ice or glasses to be sent to your room.

    Pool Attendant: A nice chair and a towel, I tip $3 to $5 for this service.

    Club/Concierge Level Captain: Many of the better hotels offer Concierge Level; I always tip at least $5 per attendant.

    Hotel Valet: Hotels charge between $15 and $25 for in and out privileges for their guests. At the end of your stay, $10 is suggested. The Valets usually pool the tips.

Tokyo Wako- Arcadia

So it was my birthday and my friend invited me out to dinner to celebrate this festive occasion. We picked ah… well…. a ‘Festive Restaurant’ - Tokyo Wako in Arcadia. It is a Japanese Teppanyaki-Style Restaurant. What is Teppanyaki? Teppan means ‘Iron Grill’. If you are a seafood or meat lover, or like chicken, Tokyo Wako pretty much has it all; everything to satisfy all the members of your group. At Tokyo Wako you are seated around a ‘Grill’ like a horseshoe, with the chef in the center leading the show. The chefs wear tall hats and cook the food right in front of you with spatulas and knives swirling about. These chefs do more than just flip your food around. Whole onions are swiftly sliced and made into a volcano with steam coming out of the top; then comes a sound of a choo choo train as the chef pushes the volcano along the tracks with flashing lights accompanying the movement. It’s almost a dinner theatre, and it’s always a fun experience for kids. I recommend bringing a group of friends to join you in the party atmosphere. Two reasons: It makes the experience more delightful and if you’re the shy type, you will be with other customers in a setting where making new friends is fun. The menu offers Shrimp ($21.50), Emperor (New York Steak) $21.95, Chicken ($17.25), 8oz.Lobster ($38.00) and many other combinations including the Wako Samuri with Crab Legs and Steak ($32.50). The restaurant itself is a little dated. There is a new Tokyo Wako in The Paseo Mall but I opted to avoid the parking crunch. There is a child’s menu in the $10 range. The lunch menu is a bit more reasonable in price and offers pretty much the same entrées.’ There is a small but serviceable Sushi Bar and an adjacent seating area for those who want a nice quiet evening. But Why? The action is in the Main Room! The service was top notch and the Mai Tai’s were very good. Suggestion: A great place for a party; if it’s your birthday, they put a funny hat on you and all the servers sing to you with one clapping on a tambourine. We were seated immediately, but don’t take the chance so call ahead for reservations Avoid: I found the chicken very dry, but maybe it was just an off night.

*** Two and Half Stars

ZELO Pizzeria- A Neighborhood Restaurant

I have a method of reviewing restaurants that I actually borrowed from a seasoned pro. The reviewer would categorize restaurants as the following: * By train or plane I would find a way to get to this restaurant * I would drive anywhere in the city to get to this restaurant *If I am in the neighborhood I would go to this restaurant *If I got a fl at tire in front of this restaurant I might go inside. Zelo restaurant in Arcadia is something unique and quite interesting; it’s a neighborhood place that attracts pizza lovers from all over Los Angeles County. If you are a pizza lover, like I am, no matter where you drive from, check out Zelo. Now if you’re not a pizza lover… but you happen to be in Arcadia, stop by as well. I wish I could say I discovered Zelo but, there have been others before me. The menu is very limited. Pizza, calzones, a few pasta dishes, salads and a roasted chicken. Prices are $3.50 for a slice, $9 for a half, and about $16.50 for a whole. The pizza menu changes daily but they always offer a pepperoni and garlic. In my last visit I had the pepperoni without mushrooms. Before that it was the Corn Andouille. What makes Zelo so special? The owner Mike is a very laid-back cat. Mike comes to us from San Francisco and Mike is the pizza maker (I guess that’s why they are closed on Mondays and Tuesdays). Anyway the crust… it’s the crust at Zelo that makes the pizza stand apart from your chains. While most pizza is made with fl our, the crust at Zelo is actually a corn meal base with just a touch of fl our. If I compared it to The Chicago Deep Dish, that just wouldn’t be just right. Actually Mike imported the recipe from Vicolo in San Francisco; Mike spent eight years there and has made his own variation in Arcadia. Get it to go! Zelo will cook a pizza halfway for you and you can finish it up at home. Hmmm, maybe I can open a pizza restaurant in Pasadena? The restaurant is on the smallish side with patio dining and about 10 tables inside.  Zelo offers beer and wine and makes many of their own desserts, including a Zucotto, made with whipped cream, chocolate cake and ladyfingers.

My Rating: Plane or train… get there!