Cheap Eats: Zengo Brunch

Whether you need a mid-morning pick-me-up after a night fueled by too many vodka redbulls, or you just want to grab a Sunday bite with friends, the "Bottomless Brunch" at Zengo is not to be missed. The restaurant is run by Chef and owner Richard Sandoval, winner of Bone Appetit Restauranteur of the Year and Mexico's Toque d'Oro. Part of a series of fusion restaurants at the new Santa Monica Mall, Zengo offers a blend of Latin and Asian tapas. For just $35 you can have as many small plates or morning cocktails that you can fit in your two-hour window. 

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Family Night - Enchiladas Verdes

Last weekend, my dad, little brother and I went to see The Lion King 3D (cue waterworks). My father noted how surreal it was to see the iconic animated film in theaters again after taking me 17 years ago. We departed the theater exhilarated, nostalgic, and, despite all the popcorn, hungry. I opted to try to find a meal that would satisfy the men-folk. My dad requested a green sauce rather than the traditional red, and thus, a new recipe was born.

 

 

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Fraiche Happy Hour - Take 2

Several months ago I discovered the all night happy hour at Fraiche in Santa Monica. Sunday - Thursday from 5pm - close, Fraiche offers food and drinks at a more affordable price -- perfect for those of us that get off work late. I brought some friends visiting from Germany and we sampled a few more items off the menu. Here are some must-try items for under $10!

TRUFFLE BURGER, $8

Burger with onion fondue, boschetto, and truffle oil on a brioche bun. By far the best item on the menu, and far superior to Father's Office!

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Weekend Getaways: Brophy Bros

Perched atop the Santa Barbara harbor, Brophy Bros is one of the classic seafood restaurants that the coastal city has to offer. Whether you choose to slurp back oyster shooters at the bar, take a date on the balcony, or settle into one of the large tables in the raucous dining area, the restaurant is a must-see when you visit the area. 

While I was a student at UCSB, I took my parents here, stopped by with friends for an indulgent meal, and even had my first date with Quinn overlooking the wharf. Brophy Bros has won every Best Seafood Restaurant and Best Clam Chowder in Santa Barbara from the Santa Barbara Independent and News Press for the past 22 years -- no small feat. I decided to venture back for the clam chowder alone.

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Quinn's Focaccia Sandwich

This weekend brought all sorts of changes: Quinn's move up to Santa Barbara, an additional food section for Culinary Therapy, and a flashy new camera! That's right, no more grainy iPhone photos. After weeks of research and deliberation I bought myself a Sony Nex-5 and am thrilled to play with my new toy. I welcome tips and suggestions from any and all photographers with open arms.

Also, please welcome to the blog: Weekend Getaways! As I plan to take brief jaunts up the coast to see Quinn in Santa Barbara and explore the restaurants in surrounding areas, I thought I might as well be productive during my trips. With such gems as Goleta's La Super Rica and Solvang's famed Chinese food, I have my work cut out for me. 

Saturday morning Quinn and I perused the Farmers' Market in downtown Santa Barbara. The county is known for its fresh produce and daily markets, inspiring me to spend more time at my own neighborhood venue. Quinn picked out a heirloom tomatoes, pluots (apricot and plum's love child), and a stunning herb focaccia. He lovingly designed an addictive end-of-summer sandwich we nibbled on all weekend.

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