New Year And New Wine
Though the seasonal shift pulls us like the tides outside our windows, here on Ocean Ave, most of my inspiration for change comes from my travels.
Welcoming Change and Some Vinho Verde
The New Year Is Upon Us….
I hope to bring you a sense of adventure and exploration with this blog so that you can get out there and explore!
Welcome to the beginning of change at Langosta Lounge. Though the seasonal shift pulls us like the tides outside our windows, here on Ocean Ave, most of my inspiration for change comes from my travels.
I recently returned from a visit to Portugal. One of the biggest takeaways from my trip was that I can slow down and savor the moment. When we take the time to slow down and savor the moment, we open up the opportunity to take in new experiences. Two of my favorite experiences to savor are good food and good wine. Both of which were found in abundance in Portugal.
In Portugal, the dairy is unpasteurized and GMO free. This gave the cheese an amazing flavor - even the milk in our coffee seemed to bring our morning cuppa to this heightened sense of umami. Unfortunately, we can’t replicate this delicious experience here in the U.S. But we can bring back some of the wine!
While in Portugal we attended the Wine in Azores festival where over 25 Azorean wines were showcased. There, I had some of the best vinho verde I’ve ever had and you can now come on in and sample my latest find at Langosta Lounge!
The popular misconception about vinho verde is that it’s a grape. But it’s actually a region in Portugal. The Vinho Verde wine region starts just below the Portuguese-Spanish border, and extends all the way to the coastal city of Porto in northwest Portugal.
Vinho Verde is created mostly by a blend of grapes found in the region. The wines can be red or white. In the states, white vinho verdes are most popular. White vinho verdes are light, crisp, and most widely known for their effervescence.
The way vinho verde opens your palette and leaves your mouth watering makes it a perfect accompaniment to the holidays - as it will keep you gobbling up all your delicious turkey and stuffing and other winter meal treats!
Now that I’ve got you craving something new, delicious, and delightful: Come in to Langosta Lounge to try my favorite Vinho Verde and share in my memory of the wonder of Portugal! You may even find yourself setting off on an adventure to the wine’s native land so you can make a vinho verde memory of your own!
Virginia Food Adventures
"Remember Marilyn, it's not about the food, the decor, the music, the ambience - it's about the company"
Do you know how many times I have wandered upon a restaurant that my initial thought is "remember Marilyn, it's not about the food, the decor, the music, the ambience - it's about the company"?
Honestly, I enter the space knowing I am not here to be wowed and then surprise! Something on the menu changes my mind, even if it is only that one dish... Now I am not a mollusk lover by any means and though I wholeheartedly support my local clam and oyster fisherman, I dare to slurp on one.
We recently took a 2-day journey down to the Rappahannock in Virginia to see our favorite aunt and uncle and relax on the river with family. We took the boat out for some lunch with our girls and oysters are the way to go. I ordered some land lubber safety net dish and a delicious cold Sculpin Grapefruit for a sunny day but there was something on the menu luring me in. I asked if Aunt Marie and Uncle Frank enjoy oysters and of course they did! They live on a sail boat for Pete’s sake... “Great!” I thought, “I will order these and you’ll eat them and tell me what you think… because boy do they sound awesome!”. The delicacy in question really did sound divine: Grilled oysters with bourbon and chipotle BBQ. Now, not only did I try one but we had a second plate... I know. I know. Sure, they were grilled and covered in gooey sauce. But at least I am now stepping into uncharted oyster territory.
Baby steps!
Spain
Six friends, great wine and a grand finish at the oldest documented restaurant in the world!
Spain: Black Ham And Bars
A whirlwind exploration of southern Spain and Madrid in 6 days!
Six friends, great wine and a grand finish at the oldest documented restaurant in the world!
We started on the southern coast in a kiteboarding town called Tarifa - The Hotel Hurricane offered one of my best meals of the trip - definitely the best dry sherry finished the meal.
You know how you get into your hotel the first night of your trip and you are too tired and lazy to venture out? I used to be jaded on hotel dinning experience, but after opening my own hotel restaurant -Dauphin Grille at the Berkely Hotel in Asbury Park I know I have to keep an open mind.
Well, I must say that our first meal at The Hurricane Hotel was by far one of the top 3 of the trip. The front desk staff was kind enough to lead us to our other top choices for the south coast. We asked them about the hotel on top of the hill - right above the sand dunes El Tesoro. There was no chance of finding this without there help: We’re so grateful because it was truly a memory for the books!
The next night for our second dinner we ventured into the old part of Tarifa and headed to El Curro.
”Oh my God!” I thought as I explored the stand up tapas bars full of lots of pig and port!
“Will the real black Iberian Ham please stand up!”
The little white town on top of the hill about 45 minutes east of tariff Frontera is definitely worth a day trip
Our adventure also led to one of the best visuals in my memory - Cows under gigantic windmills as far as the eye can see until you come upon the fields of solar power. “What is wrong with America?” I thought as I gazed at this remarkable view.
The next day we headed out for rolling surf and gambas de ajilo at the lazy coastal town of El Palmar. We took in the surf, ate, and laid about. This is vacation after all!
We were then ready for the total private experience in an artsy cabina by the sea - We traveled a bit east along the coast and kept right at the fork by the gas station. Arriving in a little town up the road we hung a right and headed to the sea.
Speaking of the sea: Check out Zahora
Hacienda Sajorami is the hotel up the road from the surfing beach (the beach cabins after the gas station)
Www.haciendasajorami.com
The only reason we didn't stay here only because we stumbled upon it!
We can’t wait to go back!
Down Under
Last evening we sat under the stars – listening to Adele and sampling some of Australia’s wonderful cheeses and wines from the Hunter Valley.
Hello From Down Under!
We are sitting on the deck of our Gunya Maia rental cabin in Suffolk Park – outside of Byron Bay enjoying a wonderful rich cup of Ashton’s coffee from the Farmer’s Market in Bangalow.
Bangalow is a little artsy town on the top of the hill above Byron and a great little side trip up into the Highlands.
I find myself listening to the birds come alive and smelling the essence of the kaffir lime tree in the yard… and having my first glass of the day, a glass of Byron Bay Ginger Cranberry Necktar. ( Don’t worry: It’s on the list of what to duplicate back home!)
Last evening we sat under the stars – listening to Adele and sampling some of Australia’s wonderful cheeses and wines from the Hunter Valley.
Four of our favorites so far:
Pear Tree – Milk Maids Pinot Gris
The Little Wine Company – Sangiovese Rose
Piggs Peake – House of Sticks Shirz
Tyrrell’s – Lost Block Cabernet
And there’s something new for me that I must bring back to our little restaurant world:
Labna – a lovely rich and salty Yogurt cheese with the consistency of mozzarella…
WOW!!!!!
If I have to pick one find on this journey – that would be it!
Our first night here was in Palm Beach – a sleepy little community about an hour and a half outside of Sydney. We sat on the deck of this beautiful old stone and wood home enjoying family and friends and the view of the old boat shed.
Marie whipped up a lovely salad and I ventured into the local prawns with a kaffir lime, garlic and sweet chile glaze. What a way to spend an evening!
The weather has been spotty at best so driving into the country and finding lovely products and produce to start the evening’s test kitchen has been the focus of the day. (Looking for the elusive Koala has been right up there on the list. But it is day 6 and not a one in sight!)
Let me tell you – finding an abundance of ingredients to have at any meal is will put you in the poor house in a matter of minutes. These country roads are a “Farm To Table” paradise.
Scott is off working on his prints with Andrew Kidman at his charming little farm up in the hills of Uki. We wondered driving up there, why a surf photographer, filmmaker would live this far out from the coast. Then we arrived only 30 minutes later to find that not only was the drive up from Byron Bay a hop and skip, but the views and aromas could suck any sea faring bloke right in!
My advice? Start by the sea and, when the rain comes in, go to Nimbin for some good old stuck in the 70's happiness. Even the owls cruise in for some action. You know me and the sea don't like to part ways for anything… But when to rain comes - it comes!!!
We headed to the Highlands for some Koala luvin.... The koala pictured here is Constable. He was rescued by the local police- hence the name!
He is blind from the various diseases affecting the Koala and lives at the rescue sanctuary in Lismore.
We saw the Koalas being cared for at the sanctuary. What a wonderful day!!!!
So here we are, smiling big and bellies full, having eaten a wonderful meal on top of the valley at a "Farm to Table" restaurant called Harvest.
What a delicious and amazing adventure it’s been.
Vieques
Bravos De Boston couldn't be a finer place to unwind. Stop in town early morning for some fresh pastries and possibly a cerveza, if you are so inclined.
Enjoying The View From Vieques, Puerto Rico
So here I am sitting poolside sipping a cold frosty beer watching the waves roll in.
Yes, there is surf in Vieques....
Bravos De Boston couldn't be a finer place to unwind. Stop in town early morning for some fresh pastries and possibly a cerveza, if you are so inclined. Not sure of the name of the joint, but just go to the center of Isabella. Look for the lazy days of Cuba when sitting on the stoop chillin was a perfect way to enjoy a sunny day. Don't ask for anything fancy just straight up is how they poor it here and at our other favorite watering hole, El Sombrero.
Don't let the drunken chatter fool you, the wine selection in the back (temperature controlled room) is the furthest thing from shabby. The prices on the Don Piedro can''t be beat. Try the two star, it's lighter.
If you are hankerin’ for some Labrador ribs head to the Blue Crab and your whole experience will bring you back to Normandy.
If you want to try something off the beaten path (even for Vieques) head over the Barefoot Bistro and have Nicole whip up whatever comes in that day.
Now for my favorite part: Pack some Coronas in the cooler and bring a couple strawberries ( the crabs are fascinated by them) and head to Garcia Gate for some of the most beauteous sandy coves you will ever set your eyes on. Stop at Blackbeard’s snorkel shop and pick up gear and a guide to the beaches and explore.
Get Abe on the horn and take the trip to Bio Bay. His humor and knowledge with take you to another place. Just don't forget the eco-friendly bug repellent ( eucalyptus and baby oil seems to do the trick)
If you want to surf, go to the North and drive to the Vieques Humane Society. Make a donation the head to the beach by the horse track. if you need to rent a board, Playa Valatos in Isabellas rents boards and the guy is super nice!
If you can swing renting the the Bravos Boys - just do it.
Off season is definitely quieter, but private beaches and discounted rates will leave you whipping up your own little cucina in a beautifully appointed kitchen . We just finished a garlic, onion, tomato and gouda frittata layered with the mofongo from last nights doggie bag. Sitting on the patio looking at a rainbow over the horizon sipping some wonderful Caribbean coffee while wondering if we have the energy to do much more than this. I don’t think we really need to….
Surf Sun Sayulita
Surf and sun aside, the coast north of Puerto Vallarta is a place to begin searching for the best taco stand.
Tacos, Surf, and Sun in Sayulita, Mexico
Back tracking a bit to find the best taco via Pacific Mexico.
Surf and sun aside, the coast north of Puerto Vallarta is place to begin searching for the best taco stand. The little sleepy town of Sayulita is a great place to start. Ivan's Tacos on the main road will keep you craving but only after 6pm. What's a girl to do all day long?
Head to Tacos Vicki in La Penita.
La Penita hosts the Thursday Market, so take the drive from Vallarta or Sayulita early on Thursday and walk the main road by the bus station with your eyes peeled for Tacos Vicki. The Thursday market can fill your rental up with anything your heart desires. Personally, I find the end of the walk through the market yields the best finds. I picked up a candelabra on the first trip and when I returned I was on a mission for a vintage Mexican mortar and pestle and walla. The same candelabra man hooked me up!
There are many options for accommodations in Sayulita. The second time we chose the Sayulita Trailer Park. If the view is what makes your spot 4 stars, and you love opening your front door to coffee and chest high surf, this is paradise. If you want the works, opt for a private rental for whatever suits your needs. Sayulitalife.com is the site for whatever you need. When you get sick of Tacos, head to Rojo Dragon for the absolute best fried rice outside of China. (I am not kidding.) Happy hour 2-for-ones set the mood for any evening and the staff is the friendliest in town. (Look for the music schedule so as not to miss the live Reggae night.)
Go to Dorado Rentals and rent an old Thing or Volkswagen Bug. Then take the ride to La Lancha and walk the heavenly white sand beach. Bring your board and if it is too small go the the Palladium resort and walk the secret path to Burros....
Adventure awaits! Go for it!