30 August 2014

Da Soli (Italian)

Once the suggestion to Da Soli was made for our monthly lunch, Ken wouldn't consider any other restaurant. He's been craving the veal alla saltimbucca since the beginning of the summer. He was not disappointed.

We met friends, Karin and George, for our monthly lunch on Saturday, August 30, 2014, at 12:30. We always have such a good time with our special friends.



Our server, Lauren, greeted us and seated us promptly although Karin and George were a bit behind us (we were actually early). She brought hot crust bread while we waited.


Appetizers:

We shared the Suppli - risotto balls which are flavorful, crunchy and addictive. We considered a second order, but didn't want to get too full.


Karin enjoyed the Caesar salad, which came with her meal. George helped her.


Jay enjoyed the crab and corn soup, which included okra. Everything was fresh and flavorful!


Entrees:

Karin thoroughly enjoyed the Shrimp Francaise special, which included artichokes and pasta. She was actually able to finish it! The lemon sauce was divine!



Jay, with a little help from her friends, devoured the Chicken and Fennel Sausage Special, which included California white figs, a balsamic and marsala reduction, and broccoli rabe. Delicious!


Ken and George ordered the veal alla Saltimbuca, which they both enjoyed, raving over the sauce and the risotto. They barely touched the veggies, which is standard for these guys...


Jay was enticed by the dessert, which Karin and George helped her eat. The whipped cream was out of this world. Although the watermelon ice cream was tasty, the blueberry ice cream took the prize! Amazing!


Chef/owner Mark Berenato came out of the kitchen to speak with us. Such a pleasant person - we will definitely return! We have not been disappointed!



We were given a taste of the strawberry plum "cello!" Delicious! Not as strong as a limoncello, but quite flavorful.


The wine glasses are beautiful. Not your standard "I don't care if they break" ones that you normally see in restaurants.

Wines enjoyed:







24 August 2014

CHUlicious (Chinese)

Wanting to try something new, we visited CHUlicious, 1200 S. Church Street, Mount Laurel, NJ 08054, on Friday, August 22, 2014.

It was formerly Marcella's and we wanted to see what the new restaurant looked like, plus we were intrigued by some dishes we saw on their Facebook page. The menu is HUGE, so it took a while to decide.

We were nicely greeted when we first walked in, and were promptly seated. Three other tables were full, so we had a choice of seating.

Hot tea, cold water and fried noodles with duck sauce are immediately brought to the table.




Appetizer:

Chicken spring roll - 2 nice size rolls, crispy and flavorful.



Entrees:

Jay tried the Basil Chicken, which was pretty good, but she's going to compare with Ginger's the next time she goes there...




Ken had the Wu-Shi ribs, which were tasty.



Although the food was good, we prefer Ginger's in Medford. Jay did want to try the pig intestines (chitterlings! LOL) and the pork belly, so if we return, she will get those.


Wine enjoyed: