Classic Diner (January 2014)

The Classic Diner in Malvern, PA, USA, is a favorite stop of mine. Breakfast and lunch here is a delicious feast at a reasonable price with great service. Make sure you are HUNGRY before you get here because the portions are large. I might also add, they use the best ingredients. So let’s start healthy, with a spinach salad that you see here:

Classic Diner (Malvern, PA) spinach salad.

Classic Diner (Malvern, PA) spinach salad.

That’s a beautiful salad, no doubt about it. And dig the lox on the side with capers, eh? Nice. For those who really need to fill up, try the cheeseburger with a side of onion rings that you see next:

Cheeseburger with a side of onion rings at the Classic Diner, Malvern, PA, USA.

Cheeseburger with a side of onion rings at the Classic Diner, Malvern, PA, USA.

That, my friends, is one good burger. The onion rings… crispy and sweet, the way you like them. Again, service is exceptional here and prices are reasonable. Be advised, the place gets BUSY, so go slightly off peak breakfast and lunch times. Enjoy every meal.

French Cannoli (from Rocco’s, NYC)

Way back in 1986, I came across Rocco’s Pastry Shop on Bleeker Street in New York City. We’ve had a close relationship ever since because I love pastry and Rocco’s makes some of the best. My favorite quick and ready item is the French Cannoli with almonds you see here:

French Cannoli with almonds from Rocco's Pastry Shop, NYC.

French Cannoli with almonds from Rocco’s Pastry Shop, NYC.

The pastry is incredibly light, the custard filling cool and balanced, the toasted, shaved almonds the perfect crunch counterpoint. Yes, it’s that good and you should go get one right away to see for yourself. Of course, there are many other baked items to enjoy at Rocco’s, where they also serve various Italian coffees. Enjoy every meal.

American Airlines (meals) December 2013

Took a couple of American Airlines flights recently, my carrier of choice. The airline has instituted a “select your meal” type of plan, which I find very helpful. You get to make a choice between a couple of entrees, which certainly leads to a more satisfied customer. So, on the first leg, I chose the “tortilla soup.” Below you see the whole tray:

American Airlines tortilla soup.

American Airlines tortilla soup.

This was a tasty, lighter selection. A couple of small cheese wedges came with the grapes and crackers. Nice treat! During the second flight, I went with the chicken salad that you see here:

American Airlines chicken salad.

American Airlines chicken salad.

Again, I found this to be tasty, lighter fare when it comes to airlines meals. The salad was packed with pecans, slices of pear, and plenty of greens. In general, I think airline food has been improving recently. At least, I have found the food to be better than it was. Sit back, relax, enjoy the flight, and please follow ALL crew member instructions. They are there to make your trip safe.

Salsa Pica, Aruba (December 2013)

There are many Colombian people in Aruba. Naturally, the local cuisine is influenced by their tastes. On the table at the Colombian and other local restaurants, you’ll frequently find a small cub containing a spicy sauce usually referred to as “salsa pica.” Here’s a look:

"Salsa pica" or Colombian spicy sauce as seen in Aruba.

“Salsa pica” or Colombian spicy sauce as seen in Aruba.

The sauce is fortified with Madam Jeanette peppers as well as onions, carrots, peppers, and a few other treats. It has a sort of bulk to go with the heat, traits that I find particularly appealing. Put a dab on your meat or fish of choice for a surprising taste. You might like it. Bon dia.