Thursday, December 10, 2015

Yes Virginia . . .

There IS a Santa Clause and he makes grilled cheese at Burger Palace of all places. 

Long awaited lunch with Twist today. Took a risk on the Ultimate Grilled cheese and was not sorry. Perfectly buttered and crisped sandwich properly done on the grill with melted cheese bacon and avocado was a delightful alternative to burger. Bacon and avocado were sliced thin and stacked nearly so as to prevent falling out of sandwich. Perfectly executed. Taste was also great. 

Twist and I split truffle fries which were wonderful as well. 

I'd forgotten about burger palace but will have to stop in more often. Last time I was there was a year ago. 

Burger Palace recommended. 

Caracol Take Me Away . . .

First ever visit to Caracol in Galleria area.  I'm apparently late to the party though because it seems everyone else has eaten here multiple times.  BBF was in from satellite office so we met there along with Twist and Quiet Guy.  I had not socialized with Twist in freaking forEVER and was very happy for the chance to do so. 

We started with ceviche de caracol.  I didnt care for the conch and presentation was not traditional ceviche style.  Just kind of meh in terms of flavor and overall impressions.  Also had carne apache and wood fired oysters.  carne apache was tasty but super small bites and ridiculously priced I thought for what came out on the plate.  Wood fired oysters on the other hand were the business.  SO tasty with a little tang of tomato and Parmesan.  Oysters done just right, not too overcooked.

Entrees Twist and I split the scallops.  Quiet got crab soup and BBF also did scallops.  Very please with scallops.  not overwhelmed by sauce and garnishes and scallops done just right.  Whomever was cooking last night had a light touch with the grilling.  Very much appreciated!  Quiet (known for putting away food) cleaned his soup bowl, which I think means it was good although with him that is not necessarily an indicator.  No complaints at least.  Quiet bailed and the rest of us got some dessert.  some plantains foster thing that I wasnt about to touch b/c cooked bananas are mostly gross, and then a roasted pineapple and pistachio cake thing in some sauce.  pineapple and sauce were delish!  pistachio cake was like eating a damp old sponge so I could have lived without it.  Not the worst thing I have ever had.

Overall nice meal, great company and pleasant atmosphere.  Prices are pretty high for what you get, says me, but it's trendy and popular so there you go.

I'd recommend Caracol and give it 3.5 microwaves (you forgot about that didn't you?).

Tonight: thrilling office dinner for holidays with assigned seating!