Saturday, July 23, 2011

Gus's World Famous Fried Chicken - Memphis, TN

310 S Front St Memphis, TN 38103 (901) 527-4877
www.gussofms.com

Rating:

Special Event Review: Windy City RibFest

Chicago, IL


Upon our arrival to Chicago, IL we decided that our first stop would be a special festival called Windy City RibFest. It was in the heart of downtown and free to attend with a donation if you choose.

When we arrived we didn't really know what to expect, but we loved the smell of the BBQ that filled the air. The festival wasn't as big as I thought it would be either. They only had like 6 stands selling BBQ which you had to get with tickets. The choice was hard to make, but we decided upon two different places for our BBQ adventure. One was Chicago BBQ Company and the other was The Award Winning Barbecue Company.

Jim Neely's Interstate BBQ - Memphis, TN

150 Stateline Rd W Southaven, MS 38671 (662) 393-5699
http://www.interstatebarbecue.com/

Rating: 

Smokey's BBQ - Chicago, IL

5481 N Northwest Hwy (between Foster Ave & Parkside Ave)Chicago, IL 60630 (773) 763-2328
http://www.smokeysbbqchicago.com/

Rating:


Mr Beef - Chicago, IL

666 N Orleans St (between Erie St & Huron St)Chicago, IL 60610 (312) 337-8500

Rating:
  


Giordano's Pizzeria - Chicago, IL

56 E Superior St (between Rush St & Wabash Ave) Chicago, IL 60611 (312) 951-0747
http://www.giordanos.com/

Rating:

Al's Italian Beef - Chicago, IL

1079 W Taylor St (between Aberdeen St & Carpenter St)Chicago, IL 60607 (312) 226-4017
http://www.alsbeef.com/index.asp

Rating:

 


Saturday, July 16, 2011

Sunday, July 10, 2011

Jamaican Vibes - Mobile, AL

3700 Government Boulevard, Mobile, AL 36693-4306 (251) 602-1973 ‎
www.jamaicanvibes-al.com

Rating: 

Featured on Studio 10:






Special Review: Tessie Lee's Cafe - Mobile, AL

1110 Montlimar Place Ste 158 Mobile, AL 36602 ph: 251-343-3663, fax: 251-343-3663
www.tessieleescafe.com

Rating: 


Texas Roadhouse - Mobile, AL

6150 Airport Boulevard, Mobile, AL 36608 (251) 341-0168 ‎
www.texasroadhouse.com

Rating: 


Review Comments:
Ernest and I both love a great steak and for Father's Day I thought Texas Roadhouse would be a great place to take him.  Well, originally the choice was Longhorns. The parking lot, however, was so packed and seeing the multitude of people outside made us change our minds.

Texas Roadhouse was also crowded, but the good thing was that we didn't have to wait more than 10 minutes to be seated.  The atmosphere reminded me so much of restaurants back home in Denver. The wood floors, country music playing in the background, peanut shells everywhere. However, I must say that there butcher style display of raw steak near the entrance was a nice added bonus to the look. I can't say that it was the same when it came to the food though.

First throw off was our appetizer which were Fried Pickles. These are usually my favorites, but here they were absolutely not.  They were so thin that they were more like chips. And for a person that rarely uses salt they tasted like a spoonfull of just that. Sour salt. I couldn't eat more than 3 and Ernest could feel his blood pressure rising from them.

As far as our main dishes goes we both had their Texas Size Combos which in no was. Believe me when I say that most restaurants in Texas, at least in Dallas, had bigger steaks and ribs than what we were given and tasted much better. The food wasn't awful, just not something to brag about.  The steak had good flavor, but for a medium rare it was a tad too tough.

As far as staff, our waitress was good and very friendly. They spoke to us the moment we walked in and helpful to us being that it was our first time there.

In my opinion I wouldn't say not go here. The food is decent and its a great place when out comes to the atmosphere. Never hurts to give it a try.





Steak Filet - Prichard, AL

St. Stephens & I-65 Prichard, Alabama 36610

Rating: 


Review Comments:
This its a new place in the "hood" and I must be honest...they have great food. Well great wings that is. My was the first to try their food with one of their salads. There was no special occasion for my first try, but I am glad hubby tasked me into going.

It is rare that you will find me going to any of neighborhood restaurants. Something about them doesn't always sit well with me. Other than Rodger's BBQ and well named fast food places, I usually opt out of those choices. However, being that this place is new I decided to give it a try.

Everyone except my husband ordered wings. My sons had regular wings while I had their buffalo. First thing I was impressed with was the size of the wings. They were pretty big, so getting 5-6 wings wasn't bad at all. How ever they make their buffalo sauce was great. Just the right touch of heat and flavor.

This is no doubt a place I wouldn't mind eating at again. Let's just hope they stay around for awhile and don't slack on the quality of their food.





Panera Bread - Mobile, AL

3691 Airport Blvd # D, Mobile, AL 36609 (251) 342-5101 ‎
www.panerabread.com

Rating: 


Review Comments:
Panera is one off my favorite deli type places to eat. My favorites is always the Greek Salad, Cream of Chicken and Wild Rice Soup, and the Cheddar & Broccoli Soup.  Hard for me to switch my tastes here...lol.

Usually I do have a great experience here. The staff are usually very polite and my orders are usually done just as I ask. Normally, I like my Greek Salad with lots of olives and dressing. However, the last few times I have came here it was the staff, not the food, that has made my opinion not so favorable.

I totally understand that restaurants like to charge for extras and when I really have a taste for something I don't mind paying for it. That is the way I am about my salad. My norm is to ask for 6 orders of olives and 2-3 extra dressing. Well the last couple of times I have placed my order and have gotten my dressing and very little olives. When I have brought it to their attention I have to argue about the fact that $6 does not equal to what I have on my salad. And the managers don't assist at all or end up with their own attitudes.

Usually I would give a restaurant a lower rating just of the staff alone, but despite their cheapness and behavior I still love making my lunch and business trips here.








P.F. Changs China Bistro - Birmingham, AL

233 Summit Boulevard, Apple Store The Summit, Birmingham, AL 35243 (205) 967-0040,  (205) 967-3661
www.pfchangs.com

Rating: 


Review Comments:
While in Birmingham, AL with my family for a church event called 2011 Pentecost Explosion my husband and I decided to pay a visit to P.F. Chang's. We had actually planned it weeks before the event, but plans were changed at last minute.

The rest of our family had heard of it but have never been so we made it a big family outing. We tried to go the 2nd night in Birmingham, but while we waited the lights went out for several miles. So we made reservations the next evening after our church event with our entire family minus 2-3. It was actually a little difficult to reserve dining at last minute for a group of about 15, but we were nicely accommodated by a nice patio seating.

The day was so nice that being on the patio made it absolutely wonderful. It was also perfect for having 6 kids with us who were all under the age of 7. The wait staff was fantastic. We had to gentlemen who definitely earned to have great tips. One only handle the children and the other took care of the adults. Our waiters let us know what items were on the menu that could be harmful to someone with peanut or seafood allergies. This included my son and husband Ernest. And we were all amazed how well the other waiter was with our children.

Ernest and I once again took the Dinner for Two choice trying different entrees this time. He had the Orange Chicken and mine was the Ginger Chicken & Broccoli. Of course no meal is complete at P.F. Chang's without Lettuce Wraps as your appetizer. We added their Spare Ribs to our meal as well. They were so tender and good. The ribs were so good that they could put some BBQ restaurants to shame. There just wasn't enough of them.

Another P.F. Chang's gets a bravo from us. So far our plan is if there is a P.F. Chang's on our road trips then we will be there. Of course you will see our reviews at each and everyone.



Kens Hickory BBQ Pit - Birmingham, AL

4817 Pinson Valley Parkway, Birmingham, AL 35215-1657 (205) 853-6488 ‎

Rating: 


Review Comments:
I must admit that out of the restaurants we have been to it is rare to come across a place as down home as this one. We came to Ken's by chance while in Birmingham, AL for the AME 2011 Pentecost Explosion. As always in our family road trips we like to visit new places so when I looked up BBQ on my TripAdvisor app this was the first one mentioned with rave reviews.

Now from the outside this place doesn't look like much. Off the highway you would think it was a dive bar. We had our boys, nephew, and niece with us. Once we pulled up they were all like, "this place looks bad". However, the moment we walked in everyone changed their minds...including us. I had never met a group of people so hospitable. The atmosphere inside was not fancy, but you could tell they loved their college football. You mostly saw autographs from members of the Alabama Crimson Tide.  Being a Tide fan I thought it was great.

Anyhow, the reviews I read on TripAdvisor was mostly spoke about how great their breakfast was. It was past breakfast so we didn't get to enjoy what others did. For the most part their ribs and chicken weren't bad at all. The downfall was the BBQ sauce and the cole slaw. It wasn't great or even something we could say was delicious. The BBQ sauce tasted to me like normal sauce from a can or jar and the cole slaw had just a bit too much sugar for my particular taste.

Basically, the atmosphere and friendliness is good reason for you to come here. The food isn't awful and your opinion might be different from mine so I would not count this place out. I recommend that you give it a try.





Chili's - Mobile, AL

790 Schillinger Rd South, Mobile, AL 36695 (251) 776-7006 ‎
www.chilis.com

Rating: 


Review Comments:
I wouldn't say Chili's is the best place I have ever eaten, but it still a good place to go. In fact, I have found it to be better than Applebee's and T.G.I. Friday's.

It was my nephews graduation day and her had chosen Chili's as the place he wanted the family to go for dinner. Having 12 adults and 5 children to handle isn't an easy task for wait staff, but ours was great. The waitress was very friendly and was great at taking everyone's orders. She didn't miss a single beat. Drinks were always filled and she was always around if we needed anything. I don't think anyone was displeased.

As far as the food goes...everything was brought to us hot and cooked as we expected. My husband and I had there Custom Combinations.  Believe me when I say that it was more than enough food for me. We even got the Southwestern Eggrolls as an appetizer. I highly  recommend them.





El Chicos Cafe - Mobile, AL

830 West Interstate 65 Service Road South, Mobile, AL 36608 (251) 344-0134 ‎
www.elchico.com

Rating: 


Review Comments:
Being that I am from the West I must say that in all my 13 years here in Mobile, AL I have never found a Mexican restaurant I absolutely love in Mobile. There are maybe 3 that I don't mind going to, but they don't wow me. This place is now my exception.

I placed a carryout order from here simply because I had a taste for Mexican and didn't feel like cooking. Thought that I would try some place new. I am so glad that I chose this place.

The staff were very nice from the moment I walked in the door. They answered every question that I asked being that it was my first time there and were helpful in my meal selections. I had their Mixed Grill Fajitas which included beef, chicken, and shrimp. Each piece was tender and perfectly seasoned. Hubby had the Chicken Fajita Salad and loved it. I also ordered their al la cart tamales and fell absolutely in love. I will admit that the color of the tamales wasn't what I expected. It had a slight orange color to out, but believe me when I say that it tastes great. It is even spicy which I also love.

I did go a second time for lunch and got the Top Shelf  Fajita which includes beef, chicken, shrimp, and baby back ribs. Again it was a wonderful and delicious meal.

This is one Mexican restaurant I recommend for you in Mobile, AL.







Chinatown Restaurant - Mobile, AL

5285 Highway 90, Mobile, AL 36619-4201 (251) 660-8168 ‎

Rating: 


Review Comments:
When it comes to worst chinese restaurants to eat at in Mobile, AL Chinatown it. Makes me a like sad that I am making my review as that. We use to eat here a lot for a couple of years. I always loved their Mongolian Grill. The chef, who ever it was, always made sure my noodles and vegetables were cooked just right. This time all I could do was leave highly disappointed.

We had taken our boys to see King Fu Panda 2 in 3D, so we thought it would be cool to keep a theme going. I wish we would have went to our favorite buffet instead.

The staff was our first turnoff. No one smiled and barely spoke to us. Throughout our meal we hardly saw our waitress which means no dishes were removed except once. Then we come to the food which was cold and overcooked. It didn't matter which selection you had. Anything with noodles was mushy. This includes the Mongolian Grill. My noodles were so overcooked that I couldn't taste the vegetables or meat. It was simply awful and we have vowed to not return.

If you want to have Chinese food in Mobile, AL this is not a place I recommend. There are plenty of great Chinese restaurants here with or without buffets.








Denny's - Mobile, AL

812 S. Beltline Highway, Mobile, AL 36609 (251) 344-8638 ‎
www.dennys.com

Rating: 


Review Comments:
Now I have never thought of Denny's as the best place to eat, but it was always great for breakfast at any time of the day. However, our last visit here was far from the best place to eat.

I think the decent part of our entire meal here was that we had a very nice waiter. The young man was polite and did his best to make sure we were satisfied with our meal. But it is very hard to make an awful meal taste good. I had ordered the T-bone steak and shrimp. I knew that the steak would be thin, but it had no flavor and the few shrimps I got were tough. My husband had to send his steak back because it was too cooked. We both like our steaks medium-rare. Vegetables were cold and had a slight taste of being freezer burnt.

Another thing that irritated both of us was that it seemed that they were out of everything we tried to get. My wanted a football sports cup. They didn't have that. They wanted orange juice. They didn't have that and the list continued.

It all just made me want to get up and leave my entire order there. Because our waiter wasn't at fault we made sure he received a decent tip, but upon walking out we decided that would not return.








Olive Garden - Mobile, AL

Festival Center, 3701 Airport Blvd, Mobile, AL 36608 (251) 343-0467,(251) 342-3158
www.olivegarden.com

Rating: 


Review Comments:
When it comes to Italian food, I love coming here. The atmosphere is always nice. Out of the few times that I have been here the staff has always been attentive and friendly.  Even when they are packed with people dining here, I have never waited to be seated longer than 20 minutes.

The last time we came was after spending Family Fun Day at my son's school and seeing Hoodwinked 2. We brought our boys here for the first time and they loved the food. Even my little picky eater who had macaroni & cheese. It was actually a great family moment like their commercials...LOL.

I had their Stuffed Mushrooms and tried the Seafood Brodetto for the first time. The Brodetto was absolutely delicious. So good that even though I was full I could have eatten more. It was the very first time I didn't go home with a to-go box.

If you haven't eaten at Olive Garden yet  I highly suggest that you do. I am pretty sure you won't be disappointed at all.






J. Rodgers BBQ - Saraland, AL

1444 Industrial Parkway, Saraland, AL 36571-3903 (251) 675-3282 ‎
www.jrodgersbbq.com

Rating: 


Review Comments:

There are two spots in Mobile, AL that I have loved going to for down south BBQ. Rodgers and J. Rodgers. J. Rodgers has a buffet that we always have enjoyed. That is until now.

The last time we went here was the week after Mother's Day and let me say that I left extremely disappointed and still hungry.  Their buffet usually has the normal southern items of ribs, macaroni and cheese, greens, mashed potatoes and gravy, yams, etc. This time was no different, except the food wasn't good and barely warm. None of it had any taste to me. The BBQ sauce on the ribs tasted as if they put a whole bottle of vinegar in it. The yams tasted sugarless and the mac & cheese was simply nasty to me.  The desserts tasted old and again....not much taste. Don't you think that Banana Pudding should taste like bananas and vanilla wafers?

My husband  and my 5year old had no problem with their meals, but my 3 year old and myself barely ate more than a couple of bites it was so awful. This is no doubt going on my "Do not return" list.







Romano's Macaroni Grill - Mobile, AL

3250 Airport Blvd # B6, Mobile, AL 36606-3847 (251) 450-4556 ‎
http://www.macaronigrill.com

Rating: 



Review Comments:
My family and I have only been to Macaroni Grill about 4-5 times total. Except for this last visit we have always had exceptional service and tasted absolutely delicious good. This last visit had me leaving full, very disappointed.

With my oldest son moving to Kansas the following morning, we thought it would be a great idea to have a nice dinner out for his last evening in Mobile, AL. The food was still delicious and I am glad they didn't slack on that. However, it was a Friday night and a lot slower than I have ever seen them. With that in mind I became very frustrated with our waiter.

To start it off it took at least 10-15 minutes before we even knew who our waiter was. A waitress stopped by our table and spoke to my 3 year old who was obviously flirting with her, but she was in a different section of the restaurant. When he finally made it to our table I informed him that my husband was running a little late meeting us because of work. Most waiters would have asked about drinks while we waited or if we will still be ordering. He just introduced himself and provided us with our bread and olive oil. We didn't see him again for another 10- 15 minutes after my husband arrived and only then did he ask about drinks. The entire time he had an attitude as if we were taking up his precious time. He hardly came around during our meal to fill our drinks or to see if we were fine with our meal.

For such a slow evening I found it hard to understand why service was the same. We have usually been greeted with smiles and small talk. For a place to have such good food it makes no sense to have such bad service. I hope the next time we eat here that we get the service we have grown to love.


Sonny's Real Pit BBQ - Mobile, AL

770 Schillinger Road South, Mobile, AL 36695-8912 (251) 634-0999 ‎
www.sonnysbbq.com

Rating: 


Review Comments:
What we like about Sonny's is their All You Can Eat specials. Our last trip here was the Tuesday before Easter. We were out and about getting our 3 boys fitted for their Easter suits and decided to come here for their All You Can Eat Ribs night.

I will admit that Sonny's isn't the best BBQ spot in Mobile, but it is worth going. Their ribs are tender and I personally love their BBQ sauce. Especially their Sizzlin' Sweet and Smokin Bar-B-Q sauces. It's their sides that don't always appeal to me and the fact that they don't really allow substitutions unless you have an allergy. I usually end up paying extra for their salad bar which is always fresh.

When it comes to the staff they are usually very friendly and good at making sure you are taken care of. That alone in my opinion deserves a decent review.



Special Review: The Big Texan Steak Ranch - Amarillo, TX

7701 W Interstate 40, Amarillo, TX 79121 (800) 657-7177 ‎
www.bigtexan.com

Rating: 


Review Comments:
When it comes to steaks and cole slaw this place is #1 in our book. We found out about this place from watching Man vs Food and we were not disappointed at all. In fact, it was the restaurant that originally got us started into wanting to try new places when we travel. Made us begin to look forward to vacations a lot more.

We have been to the Big Texan about 3 times and have enjoyed this place every time we have came. This place has excellent food. The steaks are cooked perfectly. Always juicy and mouth watering tender. Absolute perfection!! I not one to always like cole slaw, but I can never resist the Big Texan's. Not too much salad dressing and the touch if pepper gives it a great taste. Let's just say that one day I will get a big order to bring back with me or order it online. It is just that good.

The biggest part of The Big Texan is watching their famous 72 oz. Steak Challenge. The challenge includes a 72 oz steak, baked potato, salad, dinner roll and shrimp cocktail. If you can eat all of this in one hour you get a T-shirt, a souvenir boot mug, a certificate, a photo added to the "Wall of Fame", and your money for the meal refunded. Only once have we seen a live challenge when we visit. Unfortunately the 3 guys there didn't win.

The boys love coming here to see the store, creepy photos on the walls by the bathroom, cool animal heads in the dining room, and get their free cowboy hats. The staff is always great with them and making our dining experience special.

Call it a tourist attraction or tourist trap if you want, but there is no way you should go to Amarillo, TX and not go here for a great meal with your family. Out of all the restaurants we have been to this #1 on our list.





Saturday, April 30, 2011

Golden Corral Restaurant - Schillinger Rd in Mobile, AL


675 Schillinger Rd S Mobile, AL 36695 (251) 639-9393


Rating: 



Review Comments:
Anyone who knows my family knows we love Golden Corral (or GC as we call it). It is my boys favorite place to eat. However, this particular location sucks.

On Thursday, April 28th we went to this location with other family members to celebrate my nephews 6th birthday. Now I do realize that handling a large group with a lot of children 7 and under can be difficult, but or waitress had an attitude as if we were a bother from the moment we sat down. She smiled and all, but rarely came by to remove plates or check on us.

The food here was garbage. It was either over cooked, cold, or had little flavor. My sister-in-law had ribs that weren't cut properly. The grill man gave her two ribs together that looked like something from the Flintstones. Speaking of the grill man...he had an awful attitude. First I asked how long before some more steak would be ready he rudely stated that he had steak ready. The steak he spoke of was so crispy looking you just knew it was burnt. When I went back to get a medium rare steak with an attitude I was asked "Are you sure" and had the steak slammed on my plate. For a medium rare piece of steak it was very tough and had absolutely no flavor.

And I realize that when its about time to close staff members like to get out on time to go home, but they shouldn't make customers feel rushed at all.

Unless absolutely necessary we will not go to this location. Every time we are disappointed because of the food and attitudes. Tillman's Corner on Halls Mill Rd will be our choice.

Thursday, March 24, 2011

Jamaican Cafe - Mobile, AL

462 Azalea Road, Mobile, AL (251) 342-2234


Rating:


Review Comments:
Hubby has brought me lunches from here a few times, but I usually don't leave work for lunch. Well with hubby being off today getting away on such a beautiful Gulf Coast day was a nice getaway.

Never had Jamaican food before until hubby started bringing me plates from here. This place has peaked my curiosity that's for sure. My usual is their Jerk Chicken meal which comes with rice & peas (actually beans) topped with Jerk Chicken, a cabbage/carrot/actual peas mix, and cornbread with corn inside. Other than the meat all meals include the same thing. Ernest tried the Brown Stew Chicken. Neither of knew exactly what this was so I had to Google to see exactly what Brown Stew Chicken is. Here is the definition I found:

Also known as Fricasseed Chicken is actually the most popular way of cooking chicken in Jamaica. Chicken is marinated with a wild combination of herbs and spices then fried to a golden brown. Additional peppers vegetables and spices are then added and cooked to create the rich gravy (stew).

Let me just say that it was delicious! Believe me is will be my new favorite next time.

Anyhow, the restaurant isn’t large, but it is very nice and cozy. Extremely clean from what I saw and the owner is very friendly. There were people who came in and she treated everyone almost like family or very close friend. I was very impressed.

On the counter I found myself intrigued by what looked like “Hot Pockets” or nice sized pies. Turns out that they were here most popular dish…Beef and Chicken patties. I found this out later when I returned to work and a co-worker informed me that she tried them once at a block party and they were delicious. So this will also be another item on my must-haves that I will need to try at this restaurant.

This is a great stop for anyone who wants to try something different no matter if you are a local or out-of-towner. The only reason hubby and I are given this place a 4 is because we weren’t thrilled about the cornbread or the sweet tea. Well hubby anyway. The cornbread was a little flat and seemed undone, but personally I thought that was how it was supposed to be. Hubby did not…LOL. I didn’t have the tea, but I was informed that it basically tasted like water with sugar. Absolutely no flavor really. Other than that neither of us have any complains about this place. Great food!!





Popeye's Chicken & Biscuits -Dauphin St in Mobile, AL

3020 Dauphin Street, Mobile, AL (251) 473-3835
www.popeyes.com

Rating: 

Review Comments:
Yesterday was Popeye's national Payday Deal day. You get 8 pieces of chicken for only $4.99. It was very hard to pass up on this deal, but I now wish I had. See I am not a major fan of Popeye's Chicken & Biscuits. Strangely enough if I tell that to someone down south they get offended. First let me tell you why they have never been my favorite and then I will tell you why they got the rating they have from us.

It's not that Popeye's has nasty food or anything.It is just that I have never been to Popeye's and received fresh chicken or even chicken that tasted fresh. There always seems to be a lot more breading on the chicken than meat and (to keep it decent) their food never agrees with us in the mornings. However, with the deal we figured that they would make sure we were pleased with it. Which brings me to my rating.

The chicken, biscuits, and mashed potatoes with gravy wasn't bad. It editable and it was actually hot this time. The problem came once again with the chicken not tasting fresh at all and there was barely any real meat. This includes the breast and thighs pieces. Although the chicken was hot it had a slight taste of old grease or something. Not sure, but it made it taste like it had been sitting for a longer amount of time than it should. The biscuits and gravy I think were the best parts and they barely give you any of the mashed potatoes with gravy. I don't call a pint (see photos below) enough for a family. Do you?

Our other little critics didn't enjoy it at all really. My little boys love chicken. In fact, my youngest is the pickiest one, but I can always get him to eat chicken. He really didn't eat his this time. He got up several times, walked away, and then returned only because he was hungry. Usually if my children don't like it then it's not that good.

Personally, I won't be returning to this or any Popeye's Chicken & Biscuits. However, this is a personal choice. Mine is that they could be much better.





Saturday, March 19, 2011

Golden Corral Restaurant - Tillmans Corner in Mobile, AL

5327 Halls Mill Rd • Mobile, AL 36619 • (251) 665-4776
www.goldencorral.net

Rating: 


Review Comments:
Last night my family and I went to our...Well, favorite spot for buffet dining. We haven't been to Golden Corral in a few months, so we decided to give it a try this evening. Last time we came to our favorite place we walked away not pleased at all. Over the year the quality of dishes that they have provided has been very disappointing. At least to me and my husband they have been, especially when you talk about their steaks. However, my boys love this place so much that they can spot it miles away...LOL. Anyhow, this time the food quality was much better.

The food was hot and they made sure that they kept everything filled on the buffet. Steaks on the other hand still didn't meet our standards. The flavor was good as long as it was cooked properly. What always gets us when ordering steaks here is that everyone wants their steak well done, but we like ours medium-rare. I don't have one clue as to why the grill-men refuse or dislike to give us a medium-rare steak. They will show us medium and well steaks and look at us crazy when we tell them that is not it. For the past couple of times coming to Golden Corral I had to actually tell them that I want to see blood and juices coming from my steak and last night was no exception. I think the guy actually got upset with me.

Now will say that this particular restaurant is usually very busy Friday evenings until Sunday evening. And they do have very nice waitresses. Never met one we didn't like. Their crew usually works extremely hard and if you don't get an immediate refill on drinks its not because they are lazy at all. If the waitress get the chance to sit down at all during their shift I would be very surprised. I must admit they have an excellent staff. Always a pleasure to come back and see the same hard working people every time.

This restaurant does have one major downside and I am not going to sugar coat it at all. The food is good, staff is great, but if you are like me when it comes to bathrooms then I do not recommend you come here. I normally do not eat at restaurants with filthy restrooms and I try to avoid going here as much as possible. I haven't walked in their bathroom here in almost a year. If my boys need to go I have my husband take them  at any cost. There are only two Golden Corral Restaurants in Mobile, AL and to be honest the other one does not make us happy at all in the food department and the staff tend to be rude and uncaring at times. So why do we still come? Well, I do pay attention to other things like their health scores and you can view the kitchen in certain spots, so they don't worry me to much when it comes to the actual food. Their ratings are usually in the 90s.






Thursday, March 17, 2011

Special Review : Lambert's Cafe III - Foley, AL

2981 S. McKenzie • Foley, AL 36535 • (251) 943-7655
www.throwedrolls.com

Rating: 


Review Comments:
You will find that many of the reviews on Yelp call Lambert's a "Tourist Trap" and maybe to some it is. However, this place hasn't been around as long as it has for nothing. People aren't so willing to wait to be seated for 45 minutes to an hour just because they have time to kill. Let me explain to you why me and my family love this place.

Lambert's is popular because of their hot and fresh buttered rolls that throw to you. That's right! They throw the rolls to you. You just have to raise your hand and they will throw you a roll with almost perfect precision.

They are also known for what they call "pass arounds". Basically during your meal they walk around with buckets of side dishes like ocra, black eyed peas and macaroni with tomato sauce. All of them are good and there are no limits on how much you can have. They also pass around excellent apple butter for your rolls.

The food is simply excellent in my opinion. The only dish I have found myself not to like is the chicken livers. The one time I ordered them some were very dry and others very tough. My favorite is there catfish. That dish never fails me.

Another thing I like about Lambert's is that it is very family oriented and they love to have fun. They will sing and announce those who have birthdays. Oh! And you have to be careful if they ask you if you want condiments like mustard or ketchup.

They will have a surprise for you if you say "Yes".

Many will say that you get too much food here. I really don't think that is a bad thing. Lambert's isn't a place you want to go if you're watching your weight. Avoid coming here if you want fine dining. This isn't that type of place. I mentioned this in my Yelp review and recieved several racist messages from someone simply because they don't like this place. The choice in the end is yours. I recommend this place because they haven't let us down.



Wednesday, March 16, 2011

Subway - Chickasaw, AL

315 West Lee Street • Chickasaw, AL, 36611 • (251) 300-8425
http://www.subway.com

Rating: 




Review Comments:
Tonight is my very first official review post to my blog. All previous posts were added from my Yelp Reviews. Let me just say one thing. You will find that as I start reviewing places we eat at one thing I am very big on is how my family and I are treated. I have no problem with giving a restaurant a 4-Rating instead of a 5-Rating simply because they have a waitress or a cashier who is rude one way or another. In fact, this is exactly what I have done for this particular Subway.

This particular Subway is setup in a Shell gas station which is actually very convenient. As soon as I walked in, however, I felt I needed to keep my guard up. Not only did the young lady who completed my order give me a look like I was a bother to her current moment, but when she greeted me her politeness seemed very forced. She said "ma'am" and other polite terms throughout my order, but everything seemed rushed in an angry tone. I felt offended quickly and was happy that she was making my salad and sandwich as fast as she was. Every now and then I could hear a slight sucking of her teeth when I didn't answer her questions fast enough. That alone pretty much made me become angry, but I did not comment about it.

As far as the food goes it was very good. Every vegetable in my Sweet Onion Chicken Teriyaki salad was crisp and fresh tasting. Left me full and satisfied. My husband had the Footlong special of the month...Meatball Pepperoni and he had no complaints. So, when you think about it. It was the meal being better than the course even though the customer service was horrible. We will be going back simply it's Subway





Tuesday, March 15, 2011

Five Guys Burgers & Fries - Mobile, AL

4663 Airport Boulevard • Mobile, AL 36608 • (251) 300-8425
http://fiveguys.com‎

Rating: 




Review Comments:
For months we have drove by Five Guys Burgers & Fries and said that we really have to go there one day. Always found ourselves impressed by the parking lot filled with cars. Well, on March 3rd we finally decided to take a chance and give them a try.

Walking into the place was not what I expected. They had a pile of boxes separating the dining area from the order line labeled "Peanuts". My very first thought was how glad I was my 5 year old, Ernest, was not with us. He is allergic to peanuts (only whole peanuts and peanut butter) and he trips out every time he smells peanuts or are near them. It took me a minute to realize that they are for you to eat while you wait. Something they have been doing for years back home in Colorado in many of the bars and restaurants.

The menu is very simple which I must admit I liked and liked the selection of condiments even more. The price on the other hand didn't make me happy at all. A tad expensive for burgers and fries for my taste. I believe my husband and I both got bacon cheeseburgers and we orders cheese dogs for our boys. Being that when we got there there really wasn't a lot people, I thought that it took just a little longer than necessary to finally get order. Once we got our order and went home I must be honest and say that the burger was excellent. I am a big fan of Hardee's and these burgers were just a bit better than theirs. We had a few of the fries in the car, but those didn't really didn't thrill us. I think it was because there wasn't any seasoning on them at all. I liked the fact that they use fresh potatoes, but without seasoning it just doesn't make them taste as good as they should.

Overall I give them a 4-Rating and would eat there again. I might not order the fries unless they have some type of seasoning, but the burgers a well worth going back sometime. And I didn't mention that the staff was pretty nice too. Customer service is always a plus in my book.




Dreamland Bar-B-Que - Mobile, AL

3314 Old Shell Rd • Mobile, AL 36607 • (251) 479-9898
http://www.dreamlandbbq.com

Rating: 



Originally Posted on Yelp: 2/6/2011 • Click here for the review page

Review Comments:
My family and I decided to have a Valentine's Day's meal at Dreamland and I must say that I was not impressed whatsoever. This was actually my 3rd time eating at Dreamland and every time it seems the food is getting worse. The waiter and waitresses seemed nice enough, but they also did take the time out to offer to fill our glass or even check to see if everything was ok from time to time. And they weren't busy at all. The cars in the parking lot could fool you. When we walked in there were only maybe 4 other table occupied.

We ordered a slab of rib, macaroni & cheese individual portions for my two boys, cole slaw for me and baked beans for my husband. The ribs were pretty much cold and very tough with very little sauce on them. Our sides were simply awful. My boys love macaroni & cheese and they barely ate their small portions.

We have officially decided to not give Dreamland another chance. Not worth even trying to go and eat here.

Bimini Bob's - Daphne, AL

29249 US Hwy 98 • Daphne, AL 36526 • (251) 621-1086
http://www.biminibobs.com/

Rating: 

Originally Posted on Yelp: 2/6/2011 • Click here for the review page

Review Comments:
Last night (2.5.2011) my husband and I decide to have a rare date night with our boys spending the weekend with a good friend. Let me be honest and say that Bimini Bob's wasn't our first choice for dinner, however, my husband stated that he heard good things about them. So we gave this restaurant a try. Wish we didn't.

For a Saturday night the place wasn't packed at all which we found very unusual for this type of place along the Gulf Coast. The restaurant has a very relaxing feel and the staff were extremely nice. Not one complaint there at all.

For the menu, it was really hard to choose anything. This is includes alcoholic beverages. Everything on the menu pretty much had mangoes and coconuts. Hubby isn't to big about coconuts and he's allergic to shellfish so they didn't provide him with much of a selection. I had their Seafood Gumbo as an appetizer which actually was pretty good.

For the meal hubby choose their Bootie Bay Jerk Chicken Platter and I had their Crab Claw Platter which was the night's special. For the amount of money we paid for my platter I expected just a little more food. Crab Claws were more like appetizers than a meal and just a tad over cooked with very little flavor. The fries I had were a tad limp and a bit cold. However, the Island Slaw was different but it was good. Hubby wasn't pleased with his meal at all except for the sweet potatoes fries. Those were very good. He stated the jerk chicken had absolutely no spice to it like it should and pretty much tasted like regular grilled chicken.

Although we had wonderful service the food just didn't match the amount of money we paid. We just weren't impressed with this place at all when it comes to the food.







Monday, March 14, 2011

P. F. Chang's China Bistro - Allen, TX

915 W Bethany Dr • Allen, TX 75013 • (972) 390-1040
http://www.pfchangs.com

Rating: 

Originally Posted on Yelp: 11/27/2010 • Click here for the review page

Review Comments:
After having hearing such great things about P.F. Chang's by friends and a few strangers, my famiy and I decided to spend our last evening in Dallas, TX here.

Just walking up to this place was amazing. Everything was clean from the parking lot to the door. And I love the horse statue. It is beautiful!! The internal decor was no different either. Dim lighting but very pleasant atmosphere. We were impressed before we were seated.

The hostesses were very hospitable. We were expecting a 20-30 minute wait, but they had our table in 10-15 minutes. The moment we sat down the entire staff made she we were comfortable and we had everything we needed. Our waiter's name was Alex and from the moment he introduced himself he provided superior service. He gave suggestions and answered any question we have.

Now keep in mind that I have very picky children ages 3 and 5 yrs old. They have never been into Chinese food at all, but this place achieved getting my boys out the box...LOL. My 5 yr old had the Kid's Chicken Lo Mein and he loved it using the child chopsticks. My 3 yr old had Kid's Chicken Fried Rice and he also enjoyed his meal.

My husband and I had the P.F. Chang's for Two and is was an excellent meal. We tried both their Hot & Sour Soup and Egg Drop soup. Both delicious. Seasonings and tastes for both were just right. We also enjoyed the Chicken Lettuce Wrap and I know now why that it is the favorite of many of my friends. We loved it!!! Our entrees were Beef & Broccoli for my husband and I had Cantonese Shrimp. For dessert hubby had the Red Velvet Mini Desert and I had the Chocolate Mousse Mini Dessert. All of them were delcious.

To make our meal even better the manager even came by to make sure we had everything we needed. It was a great meal that my entire family enjoyed and were impressed with. And I must honestly say that Alex was the best waiter we have had at any restaurant. He deserves to be given an excellent mention. We will definately be back!








Spring Creek Barbeque - Addison, TX

14941 Midway Rd • Addison, TX 75001 • (972) 385-0970
http://www.springcreekbarbeque.com/

Rating: 

Originally Posted on Yelp: 11/24/2010 • Click here for the review page

Review Comments:
Went to Spring Creek our first night arriving here in Dallas, TX. Originally our plan was to go to Twisted Root Burger Co., but being that it was Thanksgiving Eve they were closed early. So we decided to find a BBQ restaurant to eat at. We came across Spring Creek BBQ since it was right up the street from our hotel.

One thing I can honestly say about this place is that the staff had excellent hospitality. They we all very nice, attentive, and helpful. My 5yo enjoyed talked to all of them which is a plus in my book.

The food we good, however, my husband and I both found the the macaroni & cheese just a bit tasteless. I personally didn't mind the ribs. They very flavorful and tender, but my husband says that his were a bit dry. They have great rolls and I enjoyed their cole slaw. Other than those two factors I really like this place. Next time my plan is to try their dessert bar. Their menu seemed very interesting. :-)









International House of Pancakes - Shreveport, LA

6109 Financial Plz • Shreveport, LA 71129 • (318) 671-0307
http://www.ihop.com/

Rating: 



Originally Posted on Yelp: 11/24/2010 • Click here for the review page

Review Comments:
As my husband, my two boys, and myself were heading to Dallas, TX to spend Thanksgiving with family we decided to stop here to have breakfast. Now we are fans of IHOP, but this particular one pretty much left a very bad taste in my mouth.

At first everything seemed fine. The hostess was very nice, however, it was downhill from there. The waitress seemed nice, but didn't take the time even listen when I told her that I wanted coffee and our boys wanted juice. My husband had to repeat it for me. They only provided us with three silverware bundles instead of four. When I received my coffee I got plenty of cream but there was absolutely no sugar on the table. Whenever we wanted to ask the waitress for something she was no where to be found at all. In fact, she barely came to our table throughout our meal.

To make us even more upset, my husband asked if he could charge his phone near the front before we got back on the road. The hostess told him it was ok, onlys he couldn't watch it for him nor be responsible. Which was fine for my husband, but he soon saw our waitress remove his cellphone and take it to the back. When she finally did return to our table he asked her if he could get it back and explained to her what the hostess had said. She said that they do not allow anyone to plug in anything at the store. He was more upset that the hostess told him he could, until that is the waitress never returned with my husband's cellphone and charger. I had to go to where all the waiters and waitresses were to ask for it back. Even then everyone, including the manager, had an "I don't care attitude" and there was absolutely no sense of urgency at all. I stood there for like 10-15 minutes waiting on the waitress to finally get it for me after someone had to look for her.

If it wasn't for the treatment, I would give them a decent rating. However, they don't get a rating at all from me because simply their customer service sucks. If I leave a place highly upset, then no rating is given.

The Boiling Pot - Mobile, AL

3704 Airport Blvd • Mobile, AL 36608 • (251) 345-0749
http://www.theboilingpotllc.com/

Rating: 

Originally Posted on Yelp: 11/16/2010 • Click here for the review page

Review Comments:
I love going here for lunch. If you are ever in Mobile, AL and want great shrimp for a price this is where you need to go. You pay $10 - $12 for a pound of shrimp on top perfectly cooked potatoes and corn. I never eat it all, but it excellent food.

Wind Creek Casino and Hotel - Atmore, AL

303 Poarch Rd • Atmore, AL 36502 • (866) 946-3360
http://www.windcreekcasino.com/

Rating: 


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Shrimp Basket - Foley & Bay Minette, AL

1500 S McKenzie St • Foley, AL 36535 • (251) 943-6643
1111 N US Highway 31 • Bay Minette, AL 36507 • (251) 937-3655
http://www.shrimpbasket.com/

Rating for both locations: 

Originally Posted on Yelp: 10/24/2010
Click here for the Foley, AL review page and here for the Bay Minette, AL review page

Foley, AL Review Comments:
Not only is the staff wonderful, but the food is excellent. The shrimp and fish are cooked to perfection every time. This is the kind of place that makes you crave seafood. (P.S. It doesn't matter which one you go to. They all live up to great standards)

Bay Minette, AL Review Comments:
Not only is the staff wonderful, but the food is excellent. The shrimp and fish are cooked to perfection every time. This is the kind of place that makes you crave seafood.


Texas Land & Cattle Steak House - Dallas, TX

10250 Technology Blvd E • Dallas, TX 75220 • (214) 353-8000
http://www.texaslandandcattle.com

Rating: 


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Pappas Bar-B-Q - Dallas, TX

2231 W Northwest Hwy • Dallas, TX 75220 • (214) 956-0824
http://pappasbbq.com

Rating: 


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La Fiesta Mexican Restaurant - Salina, KS

1200 E Crawford St • Salina, KS 67401 • (785) 309-0776

Rating: 

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Gates & Sons Bar-B-Q - Kansas City, MO

1325 E Emanuel Cleaver Blvd • Kansas City, MO 64110 • (816) 531-7522
http://www.gatesbbq.com/

Rating: 

Originally Posted on Yelp: 10/23/2010 • Click here for review page


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Sweetie Pie's at the Mangrove - Saint Louis, MO

4270 Manchester Rd • Saint Louis, MO 63110 • (314) 371-0304

Rating: 

Originally Posted on Yelp: 10/23/2010 • Click here for review page


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Iron Barley Eating Establishment - Saint Louis, MO

5510 Virginia Ave • Saint Louis, MO • 63111 (314) 351-4500
http://www.ironbarley.com/

Rating:
 


Originally Posted on Yelp: 10/23/2010 • Click here for review page


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Barnhill's Buffett - Moss Point, MS

6706 Highway 63 • Moss Point, MS 39563 • (228) 474-2986

Rating: 



Originally Posted on Yelp: 10/23/2010  Click here for review page


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