I finally got to the inside of the new Burger Boy

Since opening in late February of this year, the new Burger Boy on Potranco Rd. has been packed like crazy by burger faithful.  I had only been able to go through the drive thru only a couple times, and I had never eaten inside the original location since that dining area is tiny.  I decided to walk to the new Burger Boy since it is only five minutes from my house.  My friend Joe decided to tag along, and he had not had Burger Boy in over ten years.  Hamburgers for breakfast?  You bet your ass.

Being the first ones there, the first thing I noticed was how clean the place was.  The dining area was big, considering only ten people can dine in at the original location.  It has the same exact menu as the St. Mary's location, and of course I ordered my usual.  My usual being the Working Man Special with cheese and bacon, and a large Orange Freeze.  Joe got the Bates Special which is a single patty burger as opposed to my double patty burger.  When I went through the drive thru here in the last 2 months, the burgers had not tasted the same.  Getting there at opening, the burger was amazing.  It was the first time that the burger at the new location was identical in taste to the burger at the original location.  I also noticed that I got more fries at the new location as well.  I was in heaven.

The new Burger Boy is fantastic.  I got to relax and have a great burger.  The staff is friendly, and look like they are having fun.  It is best to go early or after 8:30 pm.  Trust me, its gets hyper busy.  Burger Boy has a bigger revised menu with more shakes and other treats.  I am just thankful that my friends and I don't have to drive so far just to get a Working Man Special.  Make your way to Burger Boy Potranco for an amazing burger experience. The hot dogs are great.  The chicken burger is killer.  The Orange Freeze will keep you coming back for more. If you are collecting Fiesta medals, Burger Boy is selling a very cool medal that is a must have for $10.   I hope to see you guys there.  Burger Appetit!  

Big things coming for JOHN EATS WORLD Food Blog

That's me at ,of course, KRUEZ MARKET in Lockhart.

I started this blog in January of this year because my manager at work forgot to schedule me for work while I was on a two week vacation.  I'm a foodie, and an authority on where to go eat in San Antonio.  As the weeks passed,  more and more of you took an interest in my food exploits and opinions.  For that I am very grateful.  I think it is only fitting I let you in on my plans for this blog.  I have some really cool things to look forward to.

When coming up with the idea of pinning Whataburger and Burger Boy against each other, I thought this battle would be better on video.  A video taste test.  With that in mind, I am hoping to bring JOHN EATS WORLD to YouTube this summer.  It would be like my blog entries come to life.  I'd doreviews on location, trying great food at festivals, and interviewing chefs at the most popular Alamo City restaurants.  Stay tuned for further details on my YouTube debut

I like to attend alot of Pop Culture conventions.  When I attend these gatherings, I research where to eat in the city holding these conventions.  When the YouTube debut happens, I will feature Comic-Con Eats.  I will let you know where to go eat around certain conventions.  One that is planned will be the 2019 STAR WARS CELEBRATION.  ALAMO CITY COMIC-CON and NEW YORK COMIC-CON are on the list as well.  This feature will help you find great eats while you celebrate geek fandom of all kinds.  

Now for the big one.  I am currently planning a huge excursion to a country that is known for its food culture.  It's a cool country that is on about everyone's bucket list.  I want to let the world know the wonders of food in JAPAN.  I'm hoping to film a month's worth of material ranging from why Osaka is a foodie's paradise, street eats in Tokyo, and proper ramen in KYOTO.  The trip will take alot of planning, but I want to show the wonders of food in the land of the rising sun.  Besides, my friends want to go to Tokyo Hooters.  I am looking forward to that as well, but I rfeally want to show you guys the legendary Tokyo restaurant NOBU.  I think this undertaking will be a popular one.

Once again thank you for taking the time for reading my blog.  If you have any suggestions for stories or reviews, drop me a message on my blog.  Have a great day, and keep rockin.'

My Friends And I Come Here: AUGIE'S BARBED WIRE SMOKEHOUSE

As you know, I like to go to Lockhart for barbecue.  I go as much as possible.  It is a trip I look forward to making.  But, there are times when someone in my inner-circle tells me let's do local BBQ.  That could be out of curiosity or just someone not wanting to make the one hour drive to BBQ heaven.  In instances such as that, I am more than likely to head over to AUGIE'S BARBED WIRE SMOKEHOUSE.  They have great pulled pork.

Sure it's not KRUEZ or BLACK'S, AUGIE"S is a great place to just hang out with your circle of friends.  Great selection of eats, beer, and outdoor dining.  I took a couple of my buddies with me last week to AUGIE'S so I can get their opinion.  First was my best friend PAUL AKA SPICY JONES.  He tried the footlong AUGIE DOG with chili, cheese, and jalapenos. Emphasis on Jalapenos.  He loved it.  He also liked the fact that he can relax at AUGIE'S.  Also loved the fact they had BIG RED.

Next is Blue Dragon himself, JC.  The man-child ordered the 1/2 pound chili cheddar burger which he gave a thumbs up to.  He loved the fact that the employees were friendly.  He kept flirting with the girl at the register.  Nothing came of it.  But his eating experience was a good one.  So what did I have at AUGIE'S for dinner.  I went big!  I ordered the three meat combo.  My meats of choice were brisket, jalapeno cheddar sausage, and pulled pork.  It was excellent.  The brisket is good, yet cut a little too small.  The sausage is great.  The star of the show is the pulled pork.  It is juicy and delicious.  You get a good portion, and goes great with potato salad and borracho beans.  Well worth the $15.99 price tag.  

AUGIE'S BARBED WIRE SMOKEHOUSE is located in the hip St. Mary's strip near Brackenridge Park.  You can't miss it, there is a huge pig hovering over the place.  It's a great place to hang out, and just people watch.  Stop in for a hardy meal from a pretty diverse menu you normally don't see at a BBQ joint.  They have been doing this since 2000, so they are doing something right. If I am not in Lockhart, I'm probably at AUGIE'S BARBED WIRE SMOKHOUSE.  

5 Reasons You Should Be At JAMBA JUICE

There was a time where I was eating a whole lot of junk food.  I alone probably contributed millions to the Blue Bell Ice Cream Company.  Then I turned 40 years old.  I knew I had to eat alot healthier.  Luckily there was a Jamba Juice that opened one mile from my house.  Smoothies became a part of my everyday diet.  I refer Jamba juice to everyone I know.  It's health benefits are vast and  puts a smile on everyone's face.  At some point in our lives we have to eat healthier, and Jamba Juice gives you a great way to start on a healthier you.  So, without further ado......

The 5 Reasons You Should Be At Jamba Juice

1- There is a flavor for everyone there.

For real, there is.  You want a fruity smoothie with Kale?   They got it.  Want a mango smoothie with whey protein?  Got that too.  Wheat-grass shot?  Not my thing, but who am I to judge.  Got that too.  The menu at Jamba Juice has all sorts of drinks for every kind of palate.  For chocolate lovers, there is the Chocolate Moo'd.  Need a quick pick up? Try the Acai Super Antioxidant Smoothie.  You can try my favorite, the ORANGE BUSTER.  All sorts of different combinations of great flavors can be had at Jamba Juice.

2- AMAZING OATMEAL

The oatmeal at Jamba Juice is to die for.And it is low calorie.  Only 200 calories of yum.  You get organic steel cut oats in soy milk with your choice of two toppings.  Very high in fiber, Iron, and protein.  I can not stress how good this oatmeal is.  Great way to start your day.  And it will not weigh you down.

3- They are fast

I like the fact I can pop in, order, and get my smoothie in about 5 minutes.  The staff at Jamba Juice is really good at what they do.  They have the best blenders known to man, and the ingredients are about as fresh as you can get.  In little time, they get you your smoothie fix.  I see patrons who just left work come in just because it takes little to to prepare a smoothie of their choice.  Beats waiting a while at a fast food place that only has 3 to 5 flavors  to choose from.  Time is precious, and Jamba Juice saves alot of it for you.

4- You can chill out there

The dining area at Jamba Juice is clean, quiet, and non-stressful.  The music they play is upbeat, and you can relax.  Eateries can get really loud, but Jamba Juice is usually very serene. No dark colors on the wall here.  The ambiance at Jamba Juice is that of peace and tranquility.  You can study there.  Maybe read a book.  Have an intelligent conversation.  Great place to unwind and reset your energy meter.  

5- IT'S HEALTHY

About 5 times a week, smoothies replace a large meal I would normally have.  I am replacing 800 calories with 400 calories and all sorts of nutrients.  Jamba juice is great for a post workout treat, or if you want to start out on a health kick.  You can add healthy boosts to your smoothie to boost your immune system or get your energy up.  Even the baked desserts offered there are good for you.  I see personal trainers there all the time.  You have a drink from Jamba Juice, and you won't feel bloated.  It is healthy done right.  Much healthier than Boba tea.

I urge all of you to give Jamba Juice a try.  Their smoothies are delicious, and their other offerings will have you coming back for more.  So what are you waiting for......go order an Orange Buster and have a great day.

Legendary Menu Items: Lemon Chicken from Ding How Chinese Restaurant

Lemon Chicken from DING HOW

I eat alot of Chinese food, and I know all the good Chinese eateries in town.  I usually try different entrees every time I go to each one on several occasions.  That is not the case with Ding How Chinese Restaurant.  I order only one entree from their menu.....and it is the best lemon chicken in all of San Antonio.  It is with out a doubt a legendary menu item.

Since 1983, Ding How has been a Chinese cuisine staple in the Alamo City.  Their legendary lemon chicken is by far their magnum opus.  Everyone I know has gone there just to try the lemon chicken.  What makes this dish so great?  It's two things.  Allow me to explain:

#1     The lemon sauce

The lemon sauce at Ding How is perfect.  Not too thick, and not thin at all.  Perfectly tangy ,but not sour.  I love the fact it is not draped over the chicken.  You can get as much sauce as you want just from dipping.  It goes great with steamed rice as well.  Other places have a really thick and almost orange sauce that seems to get thicker as you eat.  This is not the case with Ding How.  The sauce is divine. 

#2 The chicken portion size

The chicken itself is generously portioned  and delicious.  It is very thick in the middle, and breaded perfectly.  You get your money's worth at Ding How.  Ding How does not skimp on how much chicken you get.  I always get the same amount of chicken when ever I order lemon chicken.  It is juicy, and will have you leaving with a full stomach and a smile.  

You put these two elements together, and you are in for a true treat.  Ding How's best seller is the stuff of food legend in San Antonio, and I think everyone should try it.  You can't miss Ding How.  It's that pagoda looking building off Callaghan Rd. and Loop 410.  Their menu is vast and great quality, but the lemon chicken there is the bee's knees.  You have my word on it.

FOOD SPITBALLIN: I answer friend's questions

People have questions. I have answers.  Let's get started;

Question #1: Now that you have a food blog, will you be covering Fiesta at all?

The answer is yes, but I really had to think about this one.  I have not been to Fiesta in over 30 years.  I'm not crazy about Fiesta at all.  I have never really liked it.  All sorts of insanity ensues.  I'm afraid I will get in a fight with some high or drunken cholo, but for the sake of food, I will be covering Fiesta.  So much food at all the festivities.  How can I not cover it.  May have to defend my own life just to try a gordita, but it will be well worth it.

Question #2:  Is there a food you have been eating for years that now everyone seems to love?

Yes.  Hummus. I first tried hummus in England, and I have been eating it with celery, crackers, and pretzels.  I ate it when my friends thought it was disgusting.  Little did they know years later, everyone would love hummus.  It is really good chickpea dip.  Very healthy. I love it.  I serve it at my parties all the time.  It's just hard knowing that I have been eating it for so long, and now all of a sudden it's cool.  Hummus has always been cool.

Question #3:  What are 3 snacks I should take and not take on a road trip?

Excellent question.  Those who know me are aware of the fact I love a good roadtrip.  I have taken many, and you have to be wise with your snack choices. 

Not's:  No chips.  They are messy and stink up the vehicle.

No bread based treats.  They will have you making too many restroom stops.

No spicy snacks.  Especially Takis.  Shame on you if you eat Takis. Horribly bad for you.   Spicy snacks are murder on the road.

Do's: Beef Jerky:  Get your protein without the hell of an upset stomach.  

Gummy snacks.  Especially Sour Patch Kids.  Really controllable eating portions.

Almonds or peanuts.  They keep your energy level up.

Question #4:  Is there a restaurant you will not do an article about on your blog?

Yes! Genghis Grill.  I have personal reasons not to write about this place, but objectively, I have one reason.  In advance I apologize to anyone who is an employee at Genghis Grill who might not like what I am about to say.  If a customer hands you the ingredients of their meal, you are not a cook  or chef.  You are a glorified microwave.  There I said it.  Not an attack on those people's character, but just how I fell about the format of this place.  Great udon noodles though.

Question #5:  What there a food that was so good it left you speechless?

This happened twice.  The first time was at the house of a beautiful woman I was dating named JoAnn.  She is of Thai descent, and she whipped up some Thai chili flavored hot wings.  I was in heaven.  They were so good.  Sweet and spicy.  Nothing like having awesome wings with a beautiful woman.  The second time was at Texas Roadhouse.  I ordered a 20 oz. Ribeye steak cooked medium well.  There were not enough words to describe how amazing this steak was.  Went great with a can of  Foster's beer.  Add a bloomin onion, and you have bliss.  

Stayed tuned tomorrow as I present Legendary Menu Items: Lemon Chicken from Ding How.

The Top 5 Places to get Boba in San Antonio

Avocado Cream Blend From Tealicious Cafe

When I was a child, tapioca was frowned upon.  In vanilla pudding, no one wanted any part of it.  It was ignored for its texture, and looked at as bizarre.  That was until now.  Boba tea, a milk tea drink from Taiwan, has put tapioca into the forefront as a must have.  The popularity of boba tea has exploded in the last 5 years, and tapioca has finally gotten its day in the sun.  Boba cafes are popping up everywhere, and people of all ages have fallen in love with it.  With so many flavors to choose from, there is a boba tea for everyone.  This is absolutely the case here in San Antonio.  So today I provide you with the top five places to get great boba in San Antonio.  

#5

PHO HA LONG

6424 NW Loop 410 #104 78238

Many pho restaurants offer boba tea, but most do not offer the quality of boba that Pho Ha Long does.  Nothing goes better after finishing a bowl of pho than boba tea.  The friendly staff at Pho Ha Long were among the first eateries to offer boba tea in the Alamo City.  My favorite flavor there is avocado.  I regularly see high school students from the neighboring Holmes High School pop in during their lunch hour just for boba tea.  Great quality boba here.

#4

SNOPIOCA

6423 Babcock Rd. #104 78249

Though they may not have as many flavors as other places, SNOPIOCA makes damn good boba tea.  The place is always looking clean, and is a cool place to hang out in.  The prices there are a little higher than most, but it is top quality boba.  I suggest that you try the Taro or matcha green tea flavors.  SNOPIOCA also serves Taiwanese shaved ice, and it hits the spot on a hot day.  Give SNOPIOCA a try.

#3

KUNG FU TEA

7211 Green Glen Dr Suite 101 78255

Without a doubt the friendliest and fastest boba place in town.  Conveniently located near the UTSA campus, KUNG FU TEA is very popular with college students and boba fans alike.  KUNG FU TEA has a huge selection of flavors to choose from.  I suggest you try the honey green tea, strawberry milk slush, and their amazing taro milk tea.  It is also a great option for those who are lactose intolerant.  Great place to chill in after a long day.  You owe it to try KUNG FU TEA.

#2

Tealicious Cafe

8223 Marbach Rd. Suite 114

The most popular boba franchise in San Antonio, TEALICIOUS CAFE offers an endless amount of possibilities as far as flavors.    You can mix multiple flavors from their vast menu. Ther is a TEALICIOUS CAFE next door to where I work, and I go atleast five times a week.  The boba here is great.  The tapioca balls TEALICIOUS uses taste even better cold, and they are very generous with the tapioca they give you.  My personal favorite flavor is taro with pomegranate.  They also have some unusual flavors that are actually good like jackfruit, sour sop, and durian.  There is probably a TEALICIOUS CAFE close to you ,so drop in and get yourself the best avocado boba smoothie in town.  Great place to relax. They have a great frequent buyer program as well.

#1

BOBALICIOUS 

When you walk into BOBALICIOUS, the first thing you will notice is the wall of customer made flavors that have catchy names.  And they are all great.  Trust me, I have tried them all.  My two favorites are The Hulk and The Boba Fett.  The place itself is very chill.  There are couches to relax on, tables to play board games with your friends, and they have events like Anime Night at BOBALICIOUS as well.  The staff is incredibly friendly and helpful.  I love the fact they are located very close to a huge comic book store.  I suggest BOBALICIOUS for anyone trying boba for the first time.  Try one of their fun flavors.  I hear they now have an Abuelita boba tea now.  

If you have not tried boba before, give it a go.  It is delicious, and I guarantee you will be coming back for more.  There are boba places all over town.  What are you waiting for ?  Anytime is a good time for BOBA.

Dinnertime Death Match BRISKET VS. BEEF FAJITAS

Brisket

                                                                              VS.
                                                                     Beef Fajitas

Today's Dinnertime Death Match pins two Texas born favorites against each other.  One is the darling of BBQ.  The other is the trendy Lord of South Texas Mexican Cuisine.  Both are very popular, but we will find out who is better.  As always, the death match will be judged on five categories: Accessibility, Price, Flavor, Popularity, and the return factor.  Who will reign supreme?

Accessibility: Beef Fajitas

There are far more Mexican restaurants than BBQ establishments in this country.  In Texas alone, beef fajitas are on more menus as a plate or taco.  Brisket is part of a plate or bought by the pound.  The really good brisket can be found in small towns like Luling and Lockhart.  Great fajitas are only a few minutes away.  Beef fajitas take this one.

Price: TIE

Sure you could buy fajitas in taco form, but the price of one pound of beef fajitas is equal to the price of one pound of brisket.  We are just all used to seeing brisket being sold by the pound.  We all see fajitas served at restaurants in small portions, and never considered the money value of that amount of fajitas.  Brisket is priced as it is because of how long it takes to slow cook, yet it is not looked at as a bargain when in reality it is decently priced.  This one is a tie.

Flavor:  Beef Fajitas

This one came down to extras.  Brisket usually goes best with onions and pickles as well as BBQ sauce.  What goes well with fajitas: avocado, sauteed onions, pico de gallo, salsa, peppers, ans a host of other ingredients.  Fajitas also go well with tortillas.  There is alot you can do with fajitas as far as customizing their flavor.  Brisket is delicious, but there are some brisket faithful that really don't add much to their brisket.  More possibilities with beef fajitas.  Beef Fajitas take this one. 

Popularity: Brisket

This category is not even close.  Ten years ago, it would have been a category beef fajitas have won.  But, brisket's business is booming.  BBQ eateries have seen upsides to their customer counts on the popularity of brisket alone.  Brisket lovers are willing to drive hours to try some of the best brisket around.  Beef fajitas have blended in to most Mexican restaurant menus, and really don't get the press coverage that brisket gets.  Food channels spotlight brisket as a premiere foodie entree. Brisket cook offs are popping up everywhere.  Hands down, brisket wins this one.

The Return Factor: Brisket

Both are regularly grilled at home, but brisket has become the one BBQ-ed on a regular basis.  It feeds a larger amount of people.  Brisket is now more seen as the meat of choice for fundraisers.  Fajitas are more of a dine in experience, yet pre-marinated fajitas make it easier for people to grill them.  Brisket is also a left over fan's dream.  People don't mind slow cooking a brisket for 15 hours.  More people are going out to dine for fajitas rather than grill them.  Brisket gets this one.

We have a tie.  I took it upon myself to choose two restaurants for the tie breaker.  It's the fajitas from La Margaritas vs. the brisket from Kruez Market.  Both critically acclaimed.  I went on separate days, and ordered a good size amount of each entree.  I loved both offerings from both establishments.  I even asked other diners what was it about the meats that they loved.  One word made my decision.  WOW.  One meat is a crowd pleaser and its quality has never waned.  Fajitas are slowly becoming the entree that is falling under the radar.  There are more raves for brisket than there are for beef fajitas.    Both are very delicious, but BRISKET draws a bigger WOW factor.  Brisket takes this DEATH MATCH.

I love both brisket and beef fajitas.  Please try both.  There is Kruez Market, Smitty's Market, Blacks BBQ, and Chisholm Trail BBQ in Lockhart for Brisket.  La Margaritas, Don Pedro's Mexican Restaurant, and Rasoraio's in Southtown for beef fajitas.  Next week it's mangia mangia mangia as Spaghetti takes on Lasagna.  

Dinner Time Deathmatch: PIZZA VS. TACOS

 PIZZA

VS. 

TACOS

There are certain foods that are irresistible. Once they are mentioned as a meal option, they are hard to say no to.  Tonight, we pin two of those popular eats against each other in what should be a barn burner.  This battle will be judged on five categories: Accessibility, Price, Popularity, Flavor, and the return factor.  Many of my readers have been waiting for this battle, so let's get it on.

Accessibility: PIZZA

Though tacos are alot more common these days, pizza is much easier to get your hands on.  It can be ordered online, on the phone, at a restaurant, at a fancy gas station, and almost anywhere.  Tacos have the much loved taco trucks, restaurants, and not much else.  No delivery for tacos, but pizza revolutionized food delivery.  Pizza retailers have websites where you can customize your pizza.  Tacos don't have that liberty.  Pizza wins this round.

Price: TACOS

When you order a pizza, in most cases you can only order a whole pizza.  When you buy a slice of pizza, you pay a little price.  But that slice can not compete with the value of the taco.  When ordering tacos, you can mix and match.  There are different prices for certain tacos, but a slice of pizza still comes out costing more money than one taco.  For the price on one online pizza, you can buy 8 tacos, and they can all be different.  Most taco eateries give you a bargain when you order a good number of tacos.  Pizza can not compete with the cost efficient taco.

Popularity: PIZZA

This one was close, but pizza is more of a first option than tacos are.  There are pizza ads everywhere.  Not so many commercials for tacos.  Your friends come over, pizza is always the number one option.  Tacos are now more popular than ever, but pizza is in the public eye alot more.  Pizza is associated with cities all over the USA, and tacos are usually really associated with the Southwestern region of the country.  As a friend once said, the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles ate pizza only.  A cute Chihuahua can't compete with that.  Pizza wins the popularity contest.

Flavor: TACOS

This round hands down goes to tacos.  The shear number of ingredients you can use in a taco is endless.  You could also have a variety of tortillas or taco shells at your disposal. Pizza's main ingredients are tomato sauce, cheese, and dough.  Sure you can have a good amount of toppings, but tacos have the ability to bring a greater amount of flavors.  You can add extras such as pico de gallo, salsa, and the always great avocado to your taco.  Pizza's 3 main ingredients make up 75% of the pizza.  Pizza tastes great, but taco has the advantage in the meat department.  You can put any type of meat in a taco.  Both are delicious, but tacos has a wider variety of awesomeness for your taste-buds. 

THE RETURN FACTOR: TACOS

Though one is most likely to order pizza more, tacos are the better all around meal.  You are more likely to make tacos from scratch than you are to make a pizza like a restaurant does.  Making tacos at home is also cheaper on the pocket book.  Families are going to either turn to the store bought pizza or order a pizza from a popular delivery service.  Taco lovers will almost always get good quality meal.  Also, tacos are ideal for breakfast as well.  Tacos are easier to work with, and making a pizza from scratch at home can get a bit messy.  This Death-Match goes to TACOS.

This was extremely hard to figure out.  I love both, so I had to look at every factor to determine a winner.  For great pizza, look up Big Lou's Pizza.  For great tacos, hit up Taqueria Ricardo's in front of O'reilly's Auto Parts usually from 6 pm to 10 pm.  Next week we have a burger war.  The Legend from Corpus Christi WHATABURGER takes on the Alamo City Icon BURGER BOY to see who has the best burger in Texas.      

Food Spit balling: Are breakfast tacos overrated? Should you try the Kobe beef burger from Fuddruckers? What is the perfect dish to serve at a Wrestlemania party?

ARE BREAKFAST TACOS OVERRATED?

In South Texas, the breakfast taco reigns supreme as the early morning meal of choice.  They are very inexpensive, and there are many varieties of tacos you can choose from.  It's an easy way to feed alot of people, and very easy to cook at home.  But, does the breakfast taco deserve the adulation we bestow upon it?  I say no.  I stopped eating breakfast tacos for a number of reasons.  They were starting to become boring.  I still love barbacoa, but then who doesn't.  But the usual breakfast tacos were just becoming dull to me.  If you have seen one chorizo and egg taco you have seen them all. Not exactly, but breakfast tacos are not exactly an exciting food.  I'm in my mid 40's, and I am eating healthier meals for breakfast.  I do notice restaurants are making smaller tacos, and charging more money.  Not cool.  I prefer to eat tacos for dinner.  Tacos for dinner are underrated.  But to answer the title question  of this topic, yes breakfast tacos are overrated.  Unless you are eating barbacoa. 

SHOULD YOU TRY THE FUDDRUCKERS KOBE BEEF BURGER?

My answer to this question......hell yes!  Kobe beef is amazing.  Mind you it is very expensive, but it is a meal lover's dream.  The burger is $9.99, but it is well worth it.  It is the perfect meat, and as a burger it is bliss.  I have ordered it twice, and I was singing its praises.  It tastes amazing with guacamole and steak sauce.  It is also a healthier burger.  It won't weigh you down, and tastes great.  It was about $15.99 as a combo, and I like mine with onion rings.  You owe it to yourself to try this burger work of art.  Beats flying to Osaka, Japan just to try one.  It will become your new go to burger at Fuddruckers.  

WHAT IS THE PERFECT DISH FOR A WRESTLEMANIA PARTY?

One word:  BRISKET.  Brisket might take many hours to cook, but you can feed an army with that big brisket you slow cooked for 15 hours.  It goes well with a numerous amount of side items, and you could make po-boys as well.  It is a crowd pleaser that your guests can get seconds and thirds for.  Pick a great BBQ sauce and you are in business.  You can season brisket any way you want.  I usually make a creole brisket as well as a hickory smoked one as well.  I had alot of meat leftover, but I love leftovers.  I suggest brisket be served with sides of baked beans, potato salad, and cream corn.  Brisket is the perfect dish to serve while you and your friends are watching the biggest wrestling event of the year.  If you were wondering, Filipino food is perfect for a NJPW Wrestle Kingdom party.  Like I said before, you can't lose with Lumpia.

DINNERTIME DEATH MATCH: PHO VS. RAMEN

 Ramen

                                                                             PHO

It is pretty obvious that the popularity of Asian cuisine has gone up in popularity due to the droves of foodies partaking in noodle bars opening up across the nation.  Ramen first came to prominence during the 1984 Summer Olympics.  Ramen became the most popular dinner option of the Olympians in Los Angeles at the time.  When it reached the masses, it became a phenomenon.  It was very inexpensive, and could be prepared very quickly.  The world was in love with ramen.  As the new millennium rolled around, a soup from Vietnam became all the craze.  Pho billed itself as a fast and healthy alternative to other noodle entrees.  Pho cafes started popping up everywhere, and became a low cost option for diners.  But I have always wondered, which noodle treat is better?  At this moment I hope to end that debate.  I will be looking at 5 factors to determine the better dish: accessibility, popularity, flavor, nutritional value, and return factor.  It's Vietnam's Pho vs. Japan's Ramen in the first edition of Dinnertime Death Match. 

Accessibility:  PHO

     Ramen is more established in this country, but as of late ramen restaurants have gone upscale.  Up-scaling leads to higher prices.  The average price of a bowl of ramen is now about $11.  Ramen joints are also more located in downtown areas and busier parts of town.  Pho restaurants have opened in all neighborhoods.  Here in San Antonio, Every part of town has a pho bar.  The ramen eateries are located downtown and in the northside.  Pho is also very inexpensive.  The average bowl of pho will run you about $7.50.  The serving of pho you get for that price is usually very generous.  Accessibility goes to PHO. 

Popularity:  Ramen

     Pho is a culinary darling at the moment, but ramen is still the most popular Asian noodle.  The store bought variety is a huge seller at local super markets (trust me, I work at one). Pho has its microwavable versions, but they fail to simulate the restaurant version.  Ramen has been referenced in pop culture thanks to anime like NARUTO.  Not the case with pho.  Prices for ramen have gone up, but ramen cafes are much more full than restaurants serving pho.  Ramen wins popularity hands down.  

Flavor:  Ramen

   Pho and ramen are both delicious.  Pho has a clear broth that is simmered, and contains anise, cinnamon, and ginger.  Ramen has a cloudy broth that is boiled from pork bones.  Pho is uually served with brisket, flank steak, or meatballs.  Ramen can have any number of ingredients added to its stock.  It comes down to the fact that ramen noodles tend to go well with any kind of meat or vegetable added to its broth.  Ramen also has a wider variety of broths.  Pho noodles are longer and could get congested with quite a few ingredients added to its broth.  Ramen is simply more flexible to work with.

Nutritional Value: Pho

   Pho wins this category by a mile.  An average bowl of pho contains 330 calories.  A bowl of ramen contains 645 calories.  Pho noodles are made from rice, ramen noodles are made from wheat flour.  Every variation of pho is very lean.  Many professional athletes who look to stay in shape during training.  Ramen tends to be more filling, and contains more carbs.  The instant variety of ramen has recently been found to be bad for one's health.  Pho is clearly the healthier choice.

Return Factor:  Pho

   It all comes down to which soup could you see yourself eating more often.  Pho is cheaper, yet ramen has more flavor.  Ramen is more popular, yet pho is better for your health.  It really is about which soup is better at a restaurant or at home.  The pho at a restaurant is pretty close to the pho one makes at home.  It is very easy to make.  There are many families who make traditional Japanese ramen, but the ramen mostly made in homes is the store bought square variety that does not leave alot to work with.  Because pho is healthier and cheaper, that return factor is high.  The deathmatch victory goes to PHO.

     I urge everyone to try both ramen and pho.  I love both, and it was very difficult to determine a winner between the two.  They are great eating , especially with a group of friends.  On the next Dinnertime Death Match, we pin two of the most popular dinner choices against each other.  PIZZA vs. TACOS next Wednesday.  If you live in the San Antonio area, try Pho Ha Long for the best pho in the Alamo city.  For ramen, try Tenko Ramen.  

Asian Festival 2018 Wrap Up

On Saturday February 17th, the Asian Festival at the Institute of Texan Cultures returned to celebrate the Chinese New Year.  This year is the year of the dog, and attendance was up from last year.  Way up!  Last year it was very cold, so there were alot of attendees who arrived late.  This year, the weather was pleasant.  The mood was very festive, and the sea of people were all smiles.  I myself, I was ready to eat.  This festival has some of the best food from several cultures, and I tried a little bit of everything. Tickets are only $10 online, and $12 at the gate.  $5 for kids.  5 and under get in for free.  I look forward to Asian Festival every year, and this year had the makings to be the best year yet.  And it was.

My friends and I arrived to a parade going around the festival grounds with dancing Chinese lions, dancers, Pikachu was there, and proud representatives from each Asian country represented at the festival.  It was very cool.  Such a great start.  I was ready to introduce new foods to my friends who I refer to as the Super Dudes.  There was alot to pick from, yet the Super Dudes were very nervous.  Their eating habits are pretty traditional compared to mine, so we had to start small.  What could I have them start out with that I know they would like.  When in doubt, you turn to the Philippines. The plan was to have them try lumpia and pancit.  I have said before that lumpia is one of the best finger foods on the planet, and I could eat pancit everyday.  I convinced my pals to order the lumpia and pancit.  They fell in love with Filipino cuisine.  The pancit was so delicious.  Perfect amount of vegetables.  Amazing flavor.  The lumpia was perfectly fried, and brought a smile to my face.  

Pancit

Second course for my friends brought us to a Pakistani food booth where another of my favorite entrees was being served.  My best friend Paul, aka Spicy Jones, wanted something with some heat and alot of flavor. I presented him with chicken tandori, a mouth watering tender chicken quarter with warm spices.  It is packed with alot of juicy goodness.  Paul loved it, and was surprised he was willing to try it.  I was very happy this year that the Middle Eastern food booths had long lines this year.  I love Middle Eastern cuisine, and I feel everyone should give it a try.  My friend JC tried Pakistani seasoned fried chicken, and he really liked it.  The spice of the chicken did get to him, but he enjoyed it.  The vibe around the Middle Eastern food booths was very positive, and that warms my heart.

Tandori Chicken

The Hawaiian contingent at the festival are very nice.  Their food is as sweet as they are.  This year, they did not have the Spam sushi I like so much.  But, no one can say no to the awesomeness of the Hawaiian food booth's Huli Huli Chicken.  This dish is Hawaiian chicken teriyaki with steamed rice.  Ans what did my pal JC think of this Hawaiian treat?

Yes.....It was that good.  

The Hawaiian food booth had something for everyone.  The Huli Huli Chicken was its shining star at the festival this year.  Their shaved ice was a very refreshing treat as well.  And as always, they were so friendly.  

Huli Huli Chicken

Mea'ai Maika'i

Shaved Ice served in a blossom bowl

I did notice one Asian favorite that was missing in action at the Asian Festival this year.  I couldn't believe no one had any of it.  There was no Boba Tea to be found.  This shocked me.  A drink enjoyed and beloved by many not at Asian Festival was mind boggling.  This item would be an easy sale.  I also noticed there was a pho booth that had no pho.  I wanted pho.  Others wanted pho.  But no pho.  I was bummed out.  Until, the Korean BBQ  food truck came to the rescue.  Chong's Korean Restaurant was busy all 7 hours of the Asian Festival.  The Korean fair served up by their food truck was gold, especially the bulgoki.  Bulgoki is chicken, pork, or beef marinated in Korean spices overnight and grilled to perfection.  It is sure to have your taste buds dancing while you hear girls cheering on the K Pop dancers on the main stage of the Asian Festival.  

In closing, this year's Asian Festival was the best yet.  I love that people come in with open minds, and are willing to try something new.  You can buy beautiful jewelry, get a Japanese matsuri headband, get fitted for a turban, or try some of the best foods Asia has to offer.  The fact that so many cultures get together every year to showcase there art and food in a positive light is inspiring.  Everyone gets along at the festival. Why can't the world be like this?  Food brings everyone together.  I can't wait to go to the festival next year to celebrate the Year of the Rat.  For over 30 years, the Asian Festival has become a must go for foodies and fans of culture, and I urge you to give it a try.  I guarantee you will love it

Are We Ruining Pizza?

Pizza just might be the most popular entree in the world.  No one turns pizza down.  It is easy to get, and it is fairly cheap.  Those who seek the best pizza are willing to spend a little more to get an Italian masterpiece straight from the oven.  But, has the quality of pizza taken a nosedive? Are we settling for mass produced pizza?  Has the price of great pizza become too high?  Why are we not talking about how great pizza is?

Franchised pizza is the flavor of the day.  We live in a workingman's world, and picking up or ordering online a pizza is so much easier than getting the family together to go to a pizza place.  The pizza parlors have fresher and better pizza, but dining in is almost always more expensive.  My big complaint is that as diners we are not supporting the Mom and Pop places enough.  There was a great Chicago place here in San Antonio called Kennedy's Pizza that I frequented on a weekly basis.  It had amazing deep dish pizza with a buttered crust.  When it closed down, I was heart broken.  Sure there is a Gino's Chicago Pizza place here in town, but it is really far from where I live.  Kennedy's Pizza felt comfortable, and the employees were really nice.  I love all the popular pizza places, but there is nothing like a locally owned pizza cafe.  Hopefully Goomba's in Helotes doesn't go away anytime soon.  

Certain cities have their own style of pizza.  New York has the large, thin, foldable pie with alot of flavor.  Detroit has their rectangular Neapolitan like pizza.  Chicago has their deep dish pies. Sometimes when other cities recreate these classics, it doesn't turn out the same.  But there are times when a restaurant gets it right, yet is not appreciated enough.  So is the case with Big Lou's Pizza on the east side of San Antonio. They are know for their 42 and 60 inch New York Style pizzas.  They also make a great brisket pizza.  I just feel that alot of their customers look at their pizza as a novelty, not realizing how great the pie they ordered is.  I have eaten there many times, and that 42 inch pizza is amazing.  Great tasting sauce,  perfect blend of cheese and toppings.  It's a great pizza, not a circus act.  I commend Big Lou's Pizza on a great tasting pizza pie.  The fact their pizza has 21 inch slices does not take away from the fact it tastes great.  

Pizza is all over the place.  New York City has over 40 Ray's Pizza joints, and not all of them are owned by the same guy.  Every country has pizza places.  I feel we need to be open minded and give them a shot.  If you are short on time, it's okay to order a pizza from a franchise like Pizza Hut or Papa John's.  We are not ruining pizza.  It has become are go to meal.  I urge all of you to try a locally owned pizza place.  Diversify your pizza eating options.  Hit the streets and find a hidden gem serving up great pizza pies.  And store bought pizzas have gotten alot better.  Established pizza restaurants like UNO Pizzeria & Grill have ready to buy versions of their pizza in supermarket frozen sections.  What I am trying to say is that pizza is such an easy choice when it comes to dining. We are not forgetting about it, or setting it to the waste-side.  To many it is the perfect food.  

Trust me....I know.