joe eats

joe eats

When Joe and I travel our motto is always, “Take us where the locals eat!” Although this afternoon’s trip to Fiesta Grill Mexican Restaurant was practically in our backyard, Chapel Hill, NC, it definitely had that feel.

Voted the Independent’s “Best Mexican Restaurant in the Triangle for the third year in a row,” Fiesta Grill likely is “where the locals eat.” Duh. However, what I was referring to is that indescribable magic that occurs when stepping foot into a restaurant totally transports you into the essence and heart of a culture. Yup, Fiesta Grill’s got character and authenticity.

Pull off the charming, country road and into Fiesta Grill’s gravel lot. Walk inside and you may notice that the two small rooms are filled to the max. No need to worry, the wait goes by quickly. The owner will smile and greet you. Take in the atmosphere, the smells, or chat it up with customers. [ Read the full article ] »

4:45 pm. Foodie needed to mail a package. On autopilot we rushed over to the post office on Shannon Rd. It was focus, hustle, move time, not time to notice the scenery. However, something happened that stopped us cold in our tracks…

Ok, so, it’s only five minutes away, but I typically frequent the other post office, and rarely drive up this side of the street. But, let me just say “Wow! Hope Valley Square has been renovated and is now a goldmine of Durham foodie dream options- Rick’s Diner, Bull Street Gourmet, Pop’s Pizza, Tutti Frutti Yogurt, and, of course, one of our faves, as well as so many other Durhamites, OnlyBurger. I think I will be visiting this post office more often… [ Read the full article ] »

As many of you know, Joe and I are big fans of Indian food. I’ve got a little history with it – worked at an Indian Restaurant, got my friends and family hooked, had my wedding rehearsal dinner at Himalayan Exotic Indian Cuisine, and am always eager to eat Indian with King Foodie.

Sitar India Palace in Durham is our go-to spot for Indian food. The quality of the food is excellent – both authentic and flavorful with a buffet you can‘t beat. The atmosphere is equally pleasing, with the homey comfort of a family owned business combined with class and cheerful style.

To no one‘s surprise, it was Joe who first introduced me to Sitar back when we were first dating. I remember being impressed, both by the mouth-watering buffet, as well as the amount of food King Foodie could consume. I also recall Joe’s parents making the 12 hour drive from upstate New York to Durham, and Senior Foodie, Dr. Dan specifically requesting Sitar India Palace for his first meal.

Meal time- picture this…Senior and Junior Foodie gorging themselves until blue in the face, while the wives, the epitome of grace and style, sit with elegant ease and make charming conversation. If Senior Foodie and his disciple, Chef Joe, feel this strongly about these samosas, this is some serious stuff. [ Read the full article ] »

Joe and I celebrated our two year anniversary with a dinner at The Fearrington House (where Joe works).

For those of you unfamiliar, Fearrington Village is a charming, picturesque property located near Chapel Hill, NC. There are many attractions in this unique community including a 5-star Inn, scenic gardens, walking paths, boutiques, restaurants, and their famous belted Galloway cows. In addition, Fearrington has lovely venues for wedding receptions and hosts events such as art shows, culinary classes and book clubs.

Dining at the Fearrington House is truly a special experience. Upon entering, you are warmly greeted by the host, Juris. From that moment on, you are made to feel like an important guest due to the attentive, professional staff. The atmosphere is intimate with multiple small rooms, all elegant, yet simply decorated, treated windows overlooking the gardens, and soft lighting. Details such as table candles, fresh flowers and light background music add to the ambiance. [ Read the full article ] »

FYI, Joe kept Kosher for twelve years. Summed up, he basically just followed a vegetarian diet (ate fish, no shellfish). But don’t worry readers, he never went without. At barbeques and picnics Joe would diligently bypass hotdogs and hamburgers, and just eat the sides. However, instead of taking a side of coleslaw, he would just eat the whole bowl….

The second Joe found out he was hired as a cook, Joe decided to break that diet with a bang. He immediately went to the best steak house in town, The Angus Barn, and ordered their specialty, the 14 oz. Chateaubriand. The following day, he went to the best pizza place in town and ordered two slices of double pepperoni. I think it was a cheese burger attack on day three…

Perhaps twelve years in the “monastery” explains Joe’s enthusiasm and insatiable appetite for meat, meat, meat. The other day, Joe and I decided to get our burger fix from Dain’s Place in Durham (what we believe to have the best burgers in town). Joe decided to indulge, and ordered “The Defibralator – As seen on Man vs. Food!” ½ lb burger with bacon, sweet chili, cheddar, coleslaw and a hot dog. You can see why they call it The Defibralator! I asked Joe if he thought it was going to be too much food. Joe said, “No, it’s only ¾ lb of meat, I usually get a double burger which is 16 oz., so actually I am getting less.” WHAT? [ Read the full article ] »