Rating - 9.886
Great time having lunch outside, exceptional service and excellent meal!
Hosted a bidness meeting here around 11:30 am, it was a nice day so we sat on the patio....they have done a good job putting a cover over it to block the sun......service was EXCELLENT....fast with drink refills and anything we needed to have a great time.....
Food was outstanding.....I love the pretzel rolls they serve before the meal....and the steak sandwich was PERFECT.....bread was tasty and toasty...steak was perfect.....
Everyone else appeared to enjoy their meal also....and the mac and cheese was a favorite (as always)....
2 Lunch asian 53.90
3 D Chz Burger 38.85
1 Salmon Salad 22.95
1 Sanw Spec 22.95
1 Arnold Palmer 4.95
2 Ice Tea 6.00
1 Coke 3.00
2 Mac/cheese 14.50
Total - $174.38* (for 7 of us)
Jul 30, 2010
Due, Chicago IL - July 29
Rating - 6.2
Long wait for our pizzas (seated quickly), pizza not as good as Uno!
Stopped at our family favorite first as we had 3 hungry kids with us.....told wait was 45 minutes (but like usual line was out the door).....so I walked over to Due where they told me the wait was only 15 minutes.....it was to get seated....but it took over an hour for the pizzas to arrive....and we arrived around 5:45 pm......
I didn't mind waiting for the table because Hot Mamma and I grabbed a spot at the bar and put the kids on our laps (I had one on each leg).....because "kids cant sit at the bar".....but the wait for the pizza was just too long....although the service was really good from Justin C!
And in no way, shape, or form does it resemble a Uno's pizza.....the oldest was hungry and crabby and was not pleased that it was not an Uno's pizza....
Although I heated what was left over for dinner and thought it was much better than the pie in the restaurant last night.....
Its worth the wait at Uno!
1 garlic bread/che 4.79
1 soda 2.49
1 Sam Adams pilsn 6.29
1 Gls Geyser Pk sb 7.29
Total - $20.86 (bar tab)
1 lrg, deep dish, sausage 24.99
1 small deep dish, cheese 12.49
1 garlic bread 3.79 (really good!!!)
1 salad bowl 4.29
1 gls Hess chard7.59
1 kids pasta 3.59
1 Miller Lite 4.29
1 gls Tilia Malbec 7.99
Total - $69.02
PS. They axed us about desert.....when I axed if anyone ever order it...the server laughed and said usually once a night
Long wait for our pizzas (seated quickly), pizza not as good as Uno!
Stopped at our family favorite first as we had 3 hungry kids with us.....told wait was 45 minutes (but like usual line was out the door).....so I walked over to Due where they told me the wait was only 15 minutes.....it was to get seated....but it took over an hour for the pizzas to arrive....and we arrived around 5:45 pm......
I didn't mind waiting for the table because Hot Mamma and I grabbed a spot at the bar and put the kids on our laps (I had one on each leg).....because "kids cant sit at the bar".....but the wait for the pizza was just too long....although the service was really good from Justin C!
And in no way, shape, or form does it resemble a Uno's pizza.....the oldest was hungry and crabby and was not pleased that it was not an Uno's pizza....
Although I heated what was left over for dinner and thought it was much better than the pie in the restaurant last night.....
Its worth the wait at Uno!
1 garlic bread/che 4.79
1 soda 2.49
1 Sam Adams pilsn 6.29
1 Gls Geyser Pk sb 7.29
Total - $20.86 (bar tab)
1 lrg, deep dish, sausage 24.99
1 small deep dish, cheese 12.49
1 garlic bread 3.79 (really good!!!)
1 salad bowl 4.29
1 gls Hess chard7.59
1 kids pasta 3.59
1 Miller Lite 4.29
1 gls Tilia Malbec 7.99
Total - $69.02
PS. They axed us about desert.....when I axed if anyone ever order it...the server laughed and said usually once a night
Roof (at the Wit Hotel), Chicago IL - July 29
Rating - 9.884
Great/FUN spot to have a drink after work...exceptional spot when the weather is nice....lots of beautiful people and great service...and its not that expensive.
It's pretty small on the deck and gets crowded fast....we arrived around 4:15 and easily found a table on the "Roof".....
It is partially covered, but it was HOT when the sun was out....they could use a few fans.....I was surprised when I got off the elevator....I travel all over the country every week and this definitely a COOL place and it doesn't seem like it should be in Chicago......NY or LA sure...
Crowd was older when we got there....no one under 30 except for the servers. (the younger guys with me enjoyed the "cougars")....but as it got closer to 5 pm it became SRO only and the crowd got younger and very attractive......however, service was excellent and both Tyler and Courtney really took care of us.....
When we left at 5:30 I was surprised how crowded it was inside.....
Must have a drink here!
1 btl Dos Equix Lag 6.31
2 Bt Pilsn Urquel 12.62
1 Cucumb Mojito 12.61
1 Apple Julep 12.61
Total - 49.01
12 bt Pilsn Urquel 75.72
5 Bt Coors LT 31.55
2 Gl Lamarc 23.42
4 Bt Dos Equiz Lag 25.24
1 Bt Corona 6.31
Total - 180.09
Great/FUN spot to have a drink after work...exceptional spot when the weather is nice....lots of beautiful people and great service...and its not that expensive.
It's pretty small on the deck and gets crowded fast....we arrived around 4:15 and easily found a table on the "Roof".....
It is partially covered, but it was HOT when the sun was out....they could use a few fans.....I was surprised when I got off the elevator....I travel all over the country every week and this definitely a COOL place and it doesn't seem like it should be in Chicago......NY or LA sure...
Crowd was older when we got there....no one under 30 except for the servers. (the younger guys with me enjoyed the "cougars")....but as it got closer to 5 pm it became SRO only and the crowd got younger and very attractive......however, service was excellent and both Tyler and Courtney really took care of us.....
When we left at 5:30 I was surprised how crowded it was inside.....
Must have a drink here!
1 btl Dos Equix Lag 6.31
2 Bt Pilsn Urquel 12.62
1 Cucumb Mojito 12.61
1 Apple Julep 12.61
Total - 49.01
12 bt Pilsn Urquel 75.72
5 Bt Coors LT 31.55
2 Gl Lamarc 23.42
4 Bt Dos Equiz Lag 25.24
1 Bt Corona 6.31
Total - 180.09
Jul 28, 2010
Siri's House, Somewhere - maybe Dedham or Nedham MA - July 27
Rating - Perfect 10.0
What great hosts.....Siri and Andy are AWESOME...so much fun to hang with and have a drink out on their wonderful patio....
It was also great fun to play with "Lumpy" and make him laugh......
Andy cooks a mean burger on the grill.....just what the travel Dr ordered!
Total - F R E E
What great hosts.....Siri and Andy are AWESOME...so much fun to hang with and have a drink out on their wonderful patio....
It was also great fun to play with "Lumpy" and make him laugh......
Andy cooks a mean burger on the grill.....just what the travel Dr ordered!
Total - F R E E
Admirals Club, BOS (airport) MA - July 28
Rating - 8.9
It was the "Grand Opening" today....actually the Grand REopening.....
There were lots of AA employees who are not usually there making it too crowded, but the new place is nice. I like the soft colors and all the tables to sit at....
Best of all they kept all the GREAT employees...and CHERYL is one of the BEST in the entire system....the people at the desk will do anything they can to help you and make your day just a bit better....
It was the "Grand Opening" today....actually the Grand REopening.....
There were lots of AA employees who are not usually there making it too crowded, but the new place is nice. I like the soft colors and all the tables to sit at....
Best of all they kept all the GREAT employees...and CHERYL is one of the BEST in the entire system....the people at the desk will do anything they can to help you and make your day just a bit better....
Cosi Terminal B, BOS (airport) - July 28
Rating - 6.8
I had the usual Bacon, Turkey, Cheddar - decent, not great- and tried the Tomato Aurora soup - ITS GREAT but very small......a bit expensive for what you get....but its the only place I will eat in Terminal B food court.....
Sand, cosi 3 7.79
Gatorade 2.19
Soup, SD Tomato Aurora 2.10
Total - $13.02
I had the usual Bacon, Turkey, Cheddar - decent, not great- and tried the Tomato Aurora soup - ITS GREAT but very small......a bit expensive for what you get....but its the only place I will eat in Terminal B food court.....
Sand, cosi 3 7.79
Gatorade 2.19
Soup, SD Tomato Aurora 2.10
Total - $13.02
MBTA Commuter Rail, Manchester-by-the-Sea MA - July 28
Rating - 9.991
Awesome experience!
Got on in Manchester at 10:20 am and arrived downtown Boston in North Station at 11:10 am......easy, efficient, with very pleasant employees.....best of all its a great value.
Cab to airport was only $15.35
Total - $7.75 (for the train fare)
Awesome experience!
Got on in Manchester at 10:20 am and arrived downtown Boston in North Station at 11:10 am......easy, efficient, with very pleasant employees.....best of all its a great value.
Cab to airport was only $15.35
Total - $7.75 (for the train fare)
Dunkin Donughts, Beverly MA - July 28
Rating - 9.4
Great spot for a breakfast sandwich, I loved it!
Located in a rest area/gas station off of 95 there was line when I walked in at 8:50 am.....Bostonians LOVE their DD coffee....almost like Tim Horton's in Canada......
The shop is just part of the gas station, but there were 3 very friendly and efficient ladies working there....I loved the fact that locals came in and they knew what to make them....it was like the corner store!
I had the sausage/egg sammy on a bagel and it hit the spot.....also had a cup of tea - and that was just like a cup of tea....
Egg-saus-chz sesame toasted 2.89
Md Orig Blend 1.86
cmb -.36
Total $4.70
Great spot for a breakfast sandwich, I loved it!
Located in a rest area/gas station off of 95 there was line when I walked in at 8:50 am.....Bostonians LOVE their DD coffee....almost like Tim Horton's in Canada......
The shop is just part of the gas station, but there were 3 very friendly and efficient ladies working there....I loved the fact that locals came in and they knew what to make them....it was like the corner store!
I had the sausage/egg sammy on a bagel and it hit the spot.....also had a cup of tea - and that was just like a cup of tea....
Egg-saus-chz sesame toasted 2.89
Md Orig Blend 1.86
cmb -.36
Total $4.70
Jul 27, 2010
Hilton Dedham, Dedham MA - July 27
Rating - 2.1
No way I stay here again.
It is in a weird location and kind of hard to find off the highway.....I arrived around 8:15 pm and check in was a breeze...they had my folio prepared for me.....
Nothing special about the rooms, pretty standard with an OLD and SMALL tv, a couch, bed and desk to work at.....a/c is very cold and room looks dated...bathroom IS dated and smells like MOLD when you close the door.....
I really did not like the vent for the fan....I ran it all night to kill exterior noise.....and it blows right on the bed....speaking of the bed it was NOT COMFORTABLE.
I also thought it was expensive at $202 a night for room 373........
Room = $202 + 12.12 tax +11.51 tax = $225.63
No way I stay here again.
It is in a weird location and kind of hard to find off the highway.....I arrived around 8:15 pm and check in was a breeze...they had my folio prepared for me.....
Nothing special about the rooms, pretty standard with an OLD and SMALL tv, a couch, bed and desk to work at.....a/c is very cold and room looks dated...bathroom IS dated and smells like MOLD when you close the door.....
I really did not like the vent for the fan....I ran it all night to kill exterior noise.....and it blows right on the bed....speaking of the bed it was NOT COMFORTABLE.
I also thought it was expensive at $202 a night for room 373........
Room = $202 + 12.12 tax +11.51 tax = $225.63
Papa Razzi, Hanover MA - July 27
Rating - 9.22
Excellent spot for lunch....we took 2 customers with us on Tuesday around 12:30 pm and were immediately seated....in fact the place was pretty empty.....
Large list of specials for lunch along with GREAT service from Michelle (she was AWESOME with refilling drinks).......they first bring a basket of crispy bread sticks and then some kind of warm bread that was SO GOOD.....
I had the salmon and it was excellent....large piece of fish that was perfectly cooked.....I also sampled the Chicken Parm and it was OUTSTANDING....the ladies also liked their salads and pasta......
Great spot for a business lunch!
Winner!!!
1 soda club 2.75
1 soda diet 2.75
2 Arnold Palmer 5.50
2 Iced Tea 5.50
1 Farfale Pollo 10.99
1 Pollo Parm 12.99
1 Cesare Pollo 10.99
1 Salmon 16.99
Total - $72.74** **not too happy that I was charged for 2 Arnold Palmers and 1 ice tea, I HATE IT when they charge the Arnie's by the glass!!!!!
Excellent spot for lunch....we took 2 customers with us on Tuesday around 12:30 pm and were immediately seated....in fact the place was pretty empty.....
Large list of specials for lunch along with GREAT service from Michelle (she was AWESOME with refilling drinks).......they first bring a basket of crispy bread sticks and then some kind of warm bread that was SO GOOD.....
I had the salmon and it was excellent....large piece of fish that was perfectly cooked.....I also sampled the Chicken Parm and it was OUTSTANDING....the ladies also liked their salads and pasta......
Great spot for a business lunch!
Winner!!!
1 soda club 2.75
1 soda diet 2.75
2 Arnold Palmer 5.50
2 Iced Tea 5.50
1 Farfale Pollo 10.99
1 Pollo Parm 12.99
1 Cesare Pollo 10.99
1 Salmon 16.99
Total - $72.74** **not too happy that I was charged for 2 Arnold Palmers and 1 ice tea, I HATE IT when they charge the Arnie's by the glass!!!!!
Millers Pub, Chicago IL - July 22
Rating - 9.4
GREAT new burgers.....changed the roll to a pretzel roll and they are AWESOME....took 3 people here for lunch on Friday afternoon around 1 pm....and got seated at a booth in the bar.....
It was really crowded at that time....bar was full....and service from Dylan was SLOW....no drink refills and it took a long time for lunch....but it was worth it.....
Burgers were great (I had a cheddar burger) and fries were good (they are steak fries).
2 Coke 5.00
1 Hamburger 8.95
cheddar .50
bacon .75
Mushrooms .50
1 Hamburger 8.95
American .50
1 hamburger 8.95
cheddar .50
1 hamburger 8.95
Swiss cheese .50
mushrooms .50
Ice Tea 2.50
Total - $52.24
GREAT new burgers.....changed the roll to a pretzel roll and they are AWESOME....took 3 people here for lunch on Friday afternoon around 1 pm....and got seated at a booth in the bar.....
It was really crowded at that time....bar was full....and service from Dylan was SLOW....no drink refills and it took a long time for lunch....but it was worth it.....
Burgers were great (I had a cheddar burger) and fries were good (they are steak fries).
2 Coke 5.00
1 Hamburger 8.95
cheddar .50
bacon .75
Mushrooms .50
1 Hamburger 8.95
American .50
1 hamburger 8.95
cheddar .50
1 hamburger 8.95
Swiss cheese .50
mushrooms .50
Ice Tea 2.50
Total - $52.24
Memphis Airport, Memphis TN - July 21
Rating - 6.1
Easy airport to get in on a Wednesday around 4 pm....no lines in security and TSA people were actually friendly......
Sucks to return a rental as they are off site and it is a long bus ride....
Had a GREAT time drinking Margs at the Varsity Grill......
Horrible place to fly AA because they only have 1 gate.......
Easy airport to get in on a Wednesday around 4 pm....no lines in security and TSA people were actually friendly......
Sucks to return a rental as they are off site and it is a long bus ride....
Had a GREAT time drinking Margs at the Varsity Grill......
Horrible place to fly AA because they only have 1 gate.......
Varsity Grill, Memphis TN (airport) - July 21
Rating - 6.2
The service was good....food is marginal at best - pass on the nachos and chicken fingers were just ok (not worth $10)....the margs are Great but expensive (it is an airport after all)....in fact our waitress said after we had the second "I usually like to tell people after the second they are $13 each".....funny.....
Christie was a great server, and it was extremely funny to see them card anyone who ordered a drink....didn't matter if they were 70.......
Different review for the airport itself.....
1 Soda 2.69
1 Draft Stella 20 oz 8.79
6 Patron El Rita 78.42
1 Nachos Grld Chix 10.00
ass Guac 1.49
1 Chicken Tenders 10.99
Total - 116.60
The service was good....food is marginal at best - pass on the nachos and chicken fingers were just ok (not worth $10)....the margs are Great but expensive (it is an airport after all)....in fact our waitress said after we had the second "I usually like to tell people after the second they are $13 each".....funny.....
Christie was a great server, and it was extremely funny to see them card anyone who ordered a drink....didn't matter if they were 70.......
Different review for the airport itself.....
1 Soda 2.69
1 Draft Stella 20 oz 8.79
6 Patron El Rita 78.42
1 Nachos Grld Chix 10.00
ass Guac 1.49
1 Chicken Tenders 10.99
Total - 116.60
Jason's Deli, Memphis TN - July 21
Rating - 1.2
It certainly seemed like I was bothering them when I stopped in for a quick breakfast sandwich around 9 am....they were setting up for huge catering jobs and I had to walk to the register to see if I could grab a bagel sandwich......
I know they were not happy to see me...and the breakfast was awful.
NO WAY I would ever go back....
Bagel sand
Cup of Tea
Total - $5.60* ***not worth it
It certainly seemed like I was bothering them when I stopped in for a quick breakfast sandwich around 9 am....they were setting up for huge catering jobs and I had to walk to the register to see if I could grab a bagel sandwich......
I know they were not happy to see me...and the breakfast was awful.
NO WAY I would ever go back....
Bagel sand
Cup of Tea
Total - $5.60* ***not worth it
Doubletree, Memphis TN - July 20
Rating - 8.1
Historic building with a GREAT LOBBY....with a free HHonors Happy Hour.....located right across the street from an excellent AAA baseball team and park (make sure to go) and 2 blocks from Beale Street - which I think is WAY over rated.....can be a scary walk back to the hotel later at night.....
Service was excellent at check in, I was in room #433 on a prepaid rate....room was large and bed was great....only issue was the bathroom is HOT - must be no a/c in there.....and the place is a little "beat up" but I believe that gives it charm.....
Didn't take advantage of the breakfast - its served in a TGI Friday that is attached......but I liked the place....very quiet at night!
Total - $136.50 + 12.63 + 6.83+2.32 taxes = $158.27
Historic building with a GREAT LOBBY....with a free HHonors Happy Hour.....located right across the street from an excellent AAA baseball team and park (make sure to go) and 2 blocks from Beale Street - which I think is WAY over rated.....can be a scary walk back to the hotel later at night.....
Service was excellent at check in, I was in room #433 on a prepaid rate....room was large and bed was great....only issue was the bathroom is HOT - must be no a/c in there.....and the place is a little "beat up" but I believe that gives it charm.....
Didn't take advantage of the breakfast - its served in a TGI Friday that is attached......but I liked the place....very quiet at night!
Total - $136.50 + 12.63 + 6.83+2.32 taxes = $158.27
Blues City Cafe, Memphis TN - July 20
Rating - 3.2
Disappointing......everyone suggest we come here...and we arrived after a great time at their AAA Baseball park around 9 pm and were seated next to the bar/lounge to the right....place itself is really neat and the service was good.....
However, I did not think the ribs were that good....dry with a smoky flavor....but something was missing and the 1/2 slab did not have that much meat on them......Tom had the catfish and that was really nothing special.....
Would not return!
1 half ribs 14.95
1 Best Meal on Beale 17.95
Total - $35.94
Disappointing......everyone suggest we come here...and we arrived after a great time at their AAA Baseball park around 9 pm and were seated next to the bar/lounge to the right....place itself is really neat and the service was good.....
However, I did not think the ribs were that good....dry with a smoky flavor....but something was missing and the 1/2 slab did not have that much meat on them......Tom had the catfish and that was really nothing special.....
Would not return!
1 half ribs 14.95
1 Best Meal on Beale 17.95
Total - $35.94
Rum Boogie Cafe - Memphis TN - July 20
Rating - 9.994
Lured in by a rocking band...had great service from the bartender....and the band was EXCELLENT......neat old joint with a long bar and some tall tables to sit at....we walked by later in the night and the place was HOPPING!
2 huge beers
Total - $12.26
Lured in by a rocking band...had great service from the bartender....and the band was EXCELLENT......neat old joint with a long bar and some tall tables to sit at....we walked by later in the night and the place was HOPPING!
2 huge beers
Total - $12.26
Beale Street, Memphis TN - July 20
Rating - 5.0
Its only 2 BLOCKS LONG....that is it....I expected something like Austin, TX....but its REALLY SMALL.....
I do like that you can buy beers on the 2 block stretch and walk around with them (open container)...and beers are really CHEAP......
And lets just say the area around it is like being on the South Side of Chicago.....it can be SCARY walking back to a hotel that is just 2 blocks away.....
During the day it is DEAD....but on a Tuesday night it WAS FUN to walk around....live music everywhere with NO COVERS....but it was not lively/hopping.....
Maybe when college students are back in town.....but that is too young for me....or maybe if an NCAA Tourney game was there - basketball stadium is right on it.......
But otherwise it is NOT WORTH a visit just to go here....
Its only 2 BLOCKS LONG....that is it....I expected something like Austin, TX....but its REALLY SMALL.....
I do like that you can buy beers on the 2 block stretch and walk around with them (open container)...and beers are really CHEAP......
And lets just say the area around it is like being on the South Side of Chicago.....it can be SCARY walking back to a hotel that is just 2 blocks away.....
During the day it is DEAD....but on a Tuesday night it WAS FUN to walk around....live music everywhere with NO COVERS....but it was not lively/hopping.....
Maybe when college students are back in town.....but that is too young for me....or maybe if an NCAA Tourney game was there - basketball stadium is right on it.......
But otherwise it is NOT WORTH a visit just to go here....
Memphis Redbirds, Memphis TN - July 20
Rating - 9.881
Lovely place to watch a game even on a HOT Memphis summer night...if you go mid week buy the law tickets ($7) and you can sit anywhere you want......on a Tuesday night there were probably less than 1,000 in attendance.....
The park is spectacular, great sight lines, plenty of bathrooms, food and really good local beers......
We paid $9 per ticket and had a GREAT TIME!
Don't miss this place......
Lovely place to watch a game even on a HOT Memphis summer night...if you go mid week buy the law tickets ($7) and you can sit anywhere you want......on a Tuesday night there were probably less than 1,000 in attendance.....
The park is spectacular, great sight lines, plenty of bathrooms, food and really good local beers......
We paid $9 per ticket and had a GREAT TIME!
Don't miss this place......
Lonoke Shell, Lonoke AR - July 20
Rating - 0.00
Look out for the Subway....it is scary....hard to believe someone can eat here with all the flies as "friends"......and the employees.....lets just say "Prison".....
The gas station itself most likely has never even thought of cleaning the bathrooms......
RUN AWAY!!!!!!!!
Look out for the Subway....it is scary....hard to believe someone can eat here with all the flies as "friends"......and the employees.....lets just say "Prison".....
The gas station itself most likely has never even thought of cleaning the bathrooms......
RUN AWAY!!!!!!!!
Little Rock National Airport, July 20 - Little Rock AR
Rating - 7.89
I flew in and it looks pretty decent/newer, kind of awkward to walk from arrival though baggage claim and to rental cars (although they are in the parking garage - don't have to take a bus).....however it is SMALL....
I only wish I would have seen Slick Willy!
I flew in and it looks pretty decent/newer, kind of awkward to walk from arrival though baggage claim and to rental cars (although they are in the parking garage - don't have to take a bus).....however it is SMALL....
I only wish I would have seen Slick Willy!
Schaeffer Greenhouses, Aurora IL - July 19
Rating - 7.21
Shopping for annuals on July 19 yields good prices, but a sorry looking selection....they did have some inventory left and I don't blame them at all for the condition of what was left....I bought my flowers and they are doing much better now that they are planted......
Good service and willing to help......
Shopping for annuals on July 19 yields good prices, but a sorry looking selection....they did have some inventory left and I don't blame them at all for the condition of what was left....I bought my flowers and they are doing much better now that they are planted......
Good service and willing to help......
Jul 25, 2010
Panea Bread, Amherst OH - July 18
Rating - 9.221
Wow....its just like a regular Panera just at a stop on the I90 expressway....
I swear there were "locals" in here just for lunch...even though it is on the tollway.....
Anyway the food is great and so is the service........
1 Asiago RB
Total - $7.59
Wow....its just like a regular Panera just at a stop on the I90 expressway....
I swear there were "locals" in here just for lunch...even though it is on the tollway.....
Anyway the food is great and so is the service........
1 Asiago RB
Total - $7.59
Homewood Suites, Victor NY - July 17
Rating - 9.992
Great place for a family to stay......we got the "last room"....104 - a smoking room - normally disqualifies it right away...and while it WAS SMOKEY it was ok for the nigh.....
Check out the Champps for dinner and we enjoyed the putting green they have (bring your own balls and putters) before bed time...
But it was QUIET..........and we all slept well
Breakfast the next day was great (pan cakes and sausage patties) and everyone who worked there was friendly......
Great place to stay!
Total - Free (Hilton Honors points)
Great place for a family to stay......we got the "last room"....104 - a smoking room - normally disqualifies it right away...and while it WAS SMOKEY it was ok for the nigh.....
Check out the Champps for dinner and we enjoyed the putting green they have (bring your own balls and putters) before bed time...
But it was QUIET..........and we all slept well
Breakfast the next day was great (pan cakes and sausage patties) and everyone who worked there was friendly......
Great place to stay!
Total - Free (Hilton Honors points)
Champps Restaurant & Bar, Victor NY - July 17
Rating - 8.442
Great service, decent food (what do you expect from Champps?).....it is located in a very nice/upscale mall and I was surprised we could get a table at 6 pm on a Saturday night (there were many tables open)......
EXCELLENT service from Lindsay......Mozz sticks were pretty good as was the BBQ Chicken sand.....Hot Mamma liked the fajitas and kids enjoyed the FREE ice cream.......
This is worth a stop........
2 gls Brancott Sauv 17.58
22 oz Miller Lite 4.89
Mozzerella Sticks 7.19
Kids Quesadilla 4.20
2 Kids Chicken Fingers 9.98
Shrimp Fajitas 14.49
BBQ Chicken Sand 9.29
White Chocolate Martini 7.10
Total - $74.90
Great service, decent food (what do you expect from Champps?).....it is located in a very nice/upscale mall and I was surprised we could get a table at 6 pm on a Saturday night (there were many tables open)......
EXCELLENT service from Lindsay......Mozz sticks were pretty good as was the BBQ Chicken sand.....Hot Mamma liked the fajitas and kids enjoyed the FREE ice cream.......
This is worth a stop........
2 gls Brancott Sauv 17.58
22 oz Miller Lite 4.89
Mozzerella Sticks 7.19
Kids Quesadilla 4.20
2 Kids Chicken Fingers 9.98
Shrimp Fajitas 14.49
BBQ Chicken Sand 9.29
White Chocolate Martini 7.10
Total - $74.90
Pate's, Chatham MA - July 16
Rating - 3.2
**********Perhaps I was a bit harsh in my review....although I thought it was funny...I was asking the little guys and they liked the food and thought there was plenty....also liked the game they game them to play and Lindsy was GREAT......BUT I still did not feel welcome (or appropriate) having kids with us*********
I would not go back unless I was forced to at gun point.....my Great, Great, Great Grand parents would probably appreciate this place....but I just don't.....we had a good time (but we also drank a LOT)..........
The decor had to be at least 50 years old (I am 44) and so is the clientele....I had called for reservations and they put us in our own private room (with 6 kids).....service was great from Mel but I kept waiting for Buddy Holly to appear....
Food was decent, but not great by any means....kids meals are actually small....not really family friendly....but if you had a relative who was close to dying it would be appropriate......
1 kids pasta 5.95
1 btl Sterling Cab 44.00
6 Sam Adams Draft 27.00 (must be Brady)
1 Nantucket Lemon 2.50
2 Franciscan Cab 20.00
1 Mini Carrot Cake 4.95
2 Sherbert 8.00
1 Ice Crea, 4.00
1 Choc Parfait 4.50
1 Molton Choc Cake 4.95
1 Ice cream scoop 1.00
3 Mac & Cheese 17.85
1 Mozzarella Sticks 5.95
1 Baked Haddock 23.95
2 Kids Chkn Fingers 17.90
1 Lobster 37.95 (see Chatham Squire )
1 Swordfish 25.95
Total - $282.35
**********Perhaps I was a bit harsh in my review....although I thought it was funny...I was asking the little guys and they liked the food and thought there was plenty....also liked the game they game them to play and Lindsy was GREAT......BUT I still did not feel welcome (or appropriate) having kids with us*********
I would not go back unless I was forced to at gun point.....my Great, Great, Great Grand parents would probably appreciate this place....but I just don't.....we had a good time (but we also drank a LOT)..........
The decor had to be at least 50 years old (I am 44) and so is the clientele....I had called for reservations and they put us in our own private room (with 6 kids).....service was great from Mel but I kept waiting for Buddy Holly to appear....
Food was decent, but not great by any means....kids meals are actually small....not really family friendly....but if you had a relative who was close to dying it would be appropriate......
1 kids pasta 5.95
1 btl Sterling Cab 44.00
6 Sam Adams Draft 27.00 (must be Brady)
1 Nantucket Lemon 2.50
2 Franciscan Cab 20.00
1 Mini Carrot Cake 4.95
2 Sherbert 8.00
1 Ice Crea, 4.00
1 Choc Parfait 4.50
1 Molton Choc Cake 4.95
1 Ice cream scoop 1.00
3 Mac & Cheese 17.85
1 Mozzarella Sticks 5.95
1 Baked Haddock 23.95
2 Kids Chkn Fingers 17.90
1 Lobster 37.95 (see Chatham Squire )
1 Swordfish 25.95
Total - $282.35
Vining's Bistro, Chatham MA - July 14
Rating - 9.9937
Romantic, FUN, Great food, excellent atmosphere, solid service.....
Recommended by friends we met on the beach and it was EXCELLENT.....you will be surprised because it is one of the first restaurants you get to in downtown and it sits above a pizzeria......
We had a reservation for 6, but it was a rainy Thursday and it was not needed at 8 pm....wine selection was vast and not that expensive....apps were GREAT and the Portuguese Cod was spicy but good...
Total - $159.80 (per couple including tip)
Romantic, FUN, Great food, excellent atmosphere, solid service.....
Recommended by friends we met on the beach and it was EXCELLENT.....you will be surprised because it is one of the first restaurants you get to in downtown and it sits above a pizzeria......
We had a reservation for 6, but it was a rainy Thursday and it was not needed at 8 pm....wine selection was vast and not that expensive....apps were GREAT and the Portuguese Cod was spicy but good...
Total - $159.80 (per couple including tip)
South Cape Seafood, Chatham MA - July 13
Rating - 9.994
Fabulous place to buy fish.......great selection and friendly folks.......best of all fresh fish....we had GREAT SALMON steaks and some COD.........
Stop in here.......
Total - $24.22
Fabulous place to buy fish.......great selection and friendly folks.......best of all fresh fish....we had GREAT SALMON steaks and some COD.........
Stop in here.......
Total - $24.22
Chatham Squire, Chatham MA - July 12
Rating - 9.442
So much FUN......we got in around 5:30 and found a seat for us (and all the kids) around 5:30.....kids emptied all the wallets of money.....and we emptied the bar of all the wine/beer.......food was great (as usual)....
Chowder is GREAT, kids meals are big and include Italian Ice....and Mamma LOVES the lobster special.....VERY FAMILY FRIENDLY.....
1 cup chowder 3.95
1 stuffed clan 5.95
1 kids finger 7.95
1 grilled cheese 7.95
1 kids linguine 7.95
1 fish &chips 15.95
2 gls Cambria 14.00
2 Lemonade 3.30
2 Margarita 16.34
1 Canadian Club 5.18
1 Heineken 4.4 7
Total - $ 121.54**
**a bit expensive for a family of 5
So much FUN......we got in around 5:30 and found a seat for us (and all the kids) around 5:30.....kids emptied all the wallets of money.....and we emptied the bar of all the wine/beer.......food was great (as usual)....
Chowder is GREAT, kids meals are big and include Italian Ice....and Mamma LOVES the lobster special.....VERY FAMILY FRIENDLY.....
1 cup chowder 3.95
1 stuffed clan 5.95
1 kids finger 7.95
1 grilled cheese 7.95
1 kids linguine 7.95
1 fish &chips 15.95
2 gls Cambria 14.00
2 Lemonade 3.30
2 Margarita 16.34
1 Canadian Club 5.18
1 Heineken 4.4 7
Total - $ 121.54**
**a bit expensive for a family of 5
Dennis Pines Golf, Dennis MA - July 11
Rating - 9.00
Solid Course.....excellent value at $64 (walking).....will test every shot in the bag....too bad the range is only on mats......great 1/2 way house and decent club house (at least the service is EXCELLENT).........
71.0/127
Total - $ 64,00
Solid Course.....excellent value at $64 (walking).....will test every shot in the bag....too bad the range is only on mats......great 1/2 way house and decent club house (at least the service is EXCELLENT).........
71.0/127
Total - $ 64,00
New England Pizza, Chatham MA - July 13
Rating - 9.994
LOVE IT....Mamma was not working the cash register but the daughter was and service was EXCELLENT....kids love this place (even with only 2 video games).....very family friendly and FOOD IS GREAT.....
Total - Bro-in-law Paid!
LOVE IT....Mamma was not working the cash register but the daughter was and service was EXCELLENT....kids love this place (even with only 2 video games).....very family friendly and FOOD IS GREAT.....
Total - Bro-in-law Paid!
Chatham A's, Chatham MA, July 5
Rating 9.875
FUN, the ball games are GREAT and Family friendly....in fact there is a large playground down the right field line......you can just sit on the hill in right field field (or get there early and get a bleacher seat between the bags)......
Total - FREE
(I A's Hat = $15)
FUN, the ball games are GREAT and Family friendly....in fact there is a large playground down the right field line......you can just sit on the hill in right field field (or get there early and get a bleacher seat between the bags)......
Total - FREE
(I A's Hat = $15)
Jul 8, 2010
Hardings Beach, Chatham MA - Summer 2010
Rating - 8.4
GREAT beach with lots of room to park ($15 for the day) and plenty of room to spread out by the water or further back. It is friendly to any age group, from families with young children to young singles to retired people...
Only issue can be the sea weed, it can be thick and last year they didn't clean the beach daily (although this year it seems like they are). You also cant take any type of flotation device on the guarded part of the beach, but just past the ropes you can........
In addition, there is a bathroom, but no concession stand (although a filthy ice cream truck does prowl the parking lot).
Have to visit for at least one day!
GREAT beach with lots of room to park ($15 for the day) and plenty of room to spread out by the water or further back. It is friendly to any age group, from families with young children to young singles to retired people...
Only issue can be the sea weed, it can be thick and last year they didn't clean the beach daily (although this year it seems like they are). You also cant take any type of flotation device on the guarded part of the beach, but just past the ropes you can........
In addition, there is a bathroom, but no concession stand (although a filthy ice cream truck does prowl the parking lot).
Have to visit for at least one day!
Chatham Candy Manor, Chatham MA - July 7
Rating - 10.00
Its like walking back in time....a true old fashioned candy store.....we went in around 7 pm and it was crowded, but you could still move around....and everyone is very friendly (wouldn't you be if you worked in a candy shop!)
The kids love the candy and the wife LOVES the FUDGE....it may be her favorite part about Chatham!!
Its like walking back in time....a true old fashioned candy store.....we went in around 7 pm and it was crowded, but you could still move around....and everyone is very friendly (wouldn't you be if you worked in a candy shop!)
The kids love the candy and the wife LOVES the FUDGE....it may be her favorite part about Chatham!!
School House Ice Cream, Harwich Port MA - July 8
Rating - 8.445
Great little ice cream shop on busy Rt 28 - best to park in back. Kids who work here are really friendly and efficient.....kids all LOVED their ice cream.
A few keys: a SMALL is really LARGE, "jimmies" are .40 cents, toppings .85 (nice), kiddie cones $2.99 and the small/HUGE is only $3.59
Great spot to finish the evening (although I think I like the Old School House a little bit better and its just a bit further down the road in Chatham - http://talesfromtheroad-mwalno.blogspot.com/2010/07/old-school-house-ice-cream-chatham-ma.html)
Great little ice cream shop on busy Rt 28 - best to park in back. Kids who work here are really friendly and efficient.....kids all LOVED their ice cream.
A few keys: a SMALL is really LARGE, "jimmies" are .40 cents, toppings .85 (nice), kiddie cones $2.99 and the small/HUGE is only $3.59
Great spot to finish the evening (although I think I like the Old School House a little bit better and its just a bit further down the road in Chatham - http://talesfromtheroad-mwalno.blogspot.com/2010/07/old-school-house-ice-cream-chatham-ma.html)
The Cape Sea Grille, Harwich Port MA - July 8
Rating - 4.4 (food is 9.87)
If you like a pretentious place with EXCEPTIONAL FOOD that dislikes kids very much this is the spot for you!
We had 4 adults and 5 kids and this was NOT the place for us....didn't help that little guy knocked his water over as soon as we sat (ha, ha).....THEY DON'T HAVE A KIDS MENU - kids get mac and cheese at $8 per or something off the grown up menu.
We had a reservation at 6 pm and it was not necessary as it was pretty empty, although when we left around 7 it was pretty full...mix of much older groups and couples.....
I know they tried hard to make us feel welcome, but it just was not going to happen......they were friendly but very reserved. I overhead the (old) lady sitting behind us talking loudly about how rich she was....and then she tried to use a coupon when the bill came (I enjoyed that)....Lauren provided good service without a smile....
But the FOOD IS EXCEPTIONAL. No doubt about it that their cook/chef is fabulous.....I had the sword fish and it ROCKED.....best flavor of the tip yet.....Hot Mamma and PePe had the shark special - and while it was perfectly cooked it had no flavor...Meme had the pork tenderloin and really enjoyed it.
So, crazy good food, great service, hate kids and expensive. NO WAY I RETURN....just too pretentious for me. For me the Chatham Squire (http://talesfromtheroad-mwalno.blogspot.com/2010/07/chatham-squire-chatham-ma-july-7.html) or The Red Nun (http://talesfromtheroad-mwalno.blogspot.com/2010/07/red-nun-restaurant-chatham-ma-july-5.html) are more my style.
1 Gl Sauv Blanc 7.00
1 dewars 7.00
2 Margarita 14.00 (they were VERY tasty)
1 Lemonade 3.00
2 Fish Special 58.00
1 Swordfish 30.00
5 Kid Pasta 40.00
1 Pork Tenderloin 28.00
1 Gl Chardonnnay 6.00
1 Gl Cabernet 7.00
Total - $246.65
If you like a pretentious place with EXCEPTIONAL FOOD that dislikes kids very much this is the spot for you!
We had 4 adults and 5 kids and this was NOT the place for us....didn't help that little guy knocked his water over as soon as we sat (ha, ha).....THEY DON'T HAVE A KIDS MENU - kids get mac and cheese at $8 per or something off the grown up menu.
We had a reservation at 6 pm and it was not necessary as it was pretty empty, although when we left around 7 it was pretty full...mix of much older groups and couples.....
I know they tried hard to make us feel welcome, but it just was not going to happen......they were friendly but very reserved. I overhead the (old) lady sitting behind us talking loudly about how rich she was....and then she tried to use a coupon when the bill came (I enjoyed that)....Lauren provided good service without a smile....
But the FOOD IS EXCEPTIONAL. No doubt about it that their cook/chef is fabulous.....I had the sword fish and it ROCKED.....best flavor of the tip yet.....Hot Mamma and PePe had the shark special - and while it was perfectly cooked it had no flavor...Meme had the pork tenderloin and really enjoyed it.
So, crazy good food, great service, hate kids and expensive. NO WAY I RETURN....just too pretentious for me. For me the Chatham Squire (http://talesfromtheroad-mwalno.blogspot.com/2010/07/chatham-squire-chatham-ma-july-7.html) or The Red Nun (http://talesfromtheroad-mwalno.blogspot.com/2010/07/red-nun-restaurant-chatham-ma-july-5.html) are more my style.
1 Gl Sauv Blanc 7.00
1 dewars 7.00
2 Margarita 14.00 (they were VERY tasty)
1 Lemonade 3.00
2 Fish Special 58.00
1 Swordfish 30.00
5 Kid Pasta 40.00
1 Pork Tenderloin 28.00
1 Gl Chardonnnay 6.00
1 Gl Cabernet 7.00
Total - $246.65
Bass River Sports World/Skull Island Mini Golf, S Yarmouth MA - July 8
Rating - 2.31
So OVER RATED!!!!! They told us to skip this one and hit the next place on Rt 28....but the kids could not wait any longer....don't know why we do this to ourselves every year......
First, its CASH only and its $8.00 per person to play (even little guys)....then you will WAIT and have a painful time playing....I know waiting is part of mini-golf, but its brutal here.
Course itself has about 6 good holes, 6 marginal ones, and 6 that just blow.....looks much better from the road than it is when you are there.
They do have batting cages, a driving range and small arcade.....don't dare go here when its not a beach day because its swarmed.....GO SOMEWHERE ELSE!!!
Total - $40.00
So OVER RATED!!!!! They told us to skip this one and hit the next place on Rt 28....but the kids could not wait any longer....don't know why we do this to ourselves every year......
First, its CASH only and its $8.00 per person to play (even little guys)....then you will WAIT and have a painful time playing....I know waiting is part of mini-golf, but its brutal here.
Course itself has about 6 good holes, 6 marginal ones, and 6 that just blow.....looks much better from the road than it is when you are there.
They do have batting cages, a driving range and small arcade.....don't dare go here when its not a beach day because its swarmed.....GO SOMEWHERE ELSE!!!
Total - $40.00
Larry's PX, Chatham MA - July 8
Rating - 9.99998
LOVE this place for breakfast......lucky today because the 5 of us did not have a wait at 8:30 am on a Thursday morning.....in fact we had our choice of tables.
I walk up here everyday for the paper, but we LOVE to have breakfast here. Service is AWESOME and the food is BETTER.....portions are HUGE so make sure you are ready for serious chow.....
I had the egg, sausage and cheese sandwich on a bagel and it was DELICIOUS.......Hot Mamma had an omelet and some kind of HUGE PANCAKE, Little guy had the silver dollar pancakes (there were literally 20) and girls had the huge stack of pancakes also (3 so big they cover the plate).
With drinks it was about $40.....so a bit expensive.....but worth every bite!!!!!
LOVE this place for breakfast......lucky today because the 5 of us did not have a wait at 8:30 am on a Thursday morning.....in fact we had our choice of tables.
I walk up here everyday for the paper, but we LOVE to have breakfast here. Service is AWESOME and the food is BETTER.....portions are HUGE so make sure you are ready for serious chow.....
I had the egg, sausage and cheese sandwich on a bagel and it was DELICIOUS.......Hot Mamma had an omelet and some kind of HUGE PANCAKE, Little guy had the silver dollar pancakes (there were literally 20) and girls had the huge stack of pancakes also (3 so big they cover the plate).
With drinks it was about $40.....so a bit expensive.....but worth every bite!!!!!
Chatham Squire, Chatham MA - July 7
Rating - 10.00
Such a GREAT family place....FUN, FUN, FUN....so family FRIENDLY.....arrived around 6 pm on a Wednesday and headed to the back (secret) for a table....AWESOME service from Amy....by 6:15 the place was full.....
Kids can head over and spend all you money on the games (fooze ball, pinball, Golden Tee, 2 car games) while the adults have a cold beverage. I had the chowder (exceptional) and fish & chips (PERFECT - light breading, lots of fish, good fries, and cole slaw); kids had the kids meals (loved them AND they include a cup of Italian Ice - that they LOVED); Hot Mamma had the Lobster Special (loves it and it includes some "steamers" - great BARGAIN)........
Love this place to have a drink in the bar, or dinner with the kids!!!
1 Cup Chowder 3.95
1 Kids fingers 7.95
1 kids linguine 7.95
1 Grilled cheese 7.95 (really cool, its served in a "pocket")
1 fish & chips 15.95
1 Lobster Special 27.95
1 Sam Summer 4.47
2 Gls Tohu SB 12.00
2 Lemonade 3.30
1 Margarita 5.65
Total - $103.20
Such a GREAT family place....FUN, FUN, FUN....so family FRIENDLY.....arrived around 6 pm on a Wednesday and headed to the back (secret) for a table....AWESOME service from Amy....by 6:15 the place was full.....
Kids can head over and spend all you money on the games (fooze ball, pinball, Golden Tee, 2 car games) while the adults have a cold beverage. I had the chowder (exceptional) and fish & chips (PERFECT - light breading, lots of fish, good fries, and cole slaw); kids had the kids meals (loved them AND they include a cup of Italian Ice - that they LOVED); Hot Mamma had the Lobster Special (loves it and it includes some "steamers" - great BARGAIN)........
Love this place to have a drink in the bar, or dinner with the kids!!!
1 Cup Chowder 3.95
1 Kids fingers 7.95
1 kids linguine 7.95
1 Grilled cheese 7.95 (really cool, its served in a "pocket")
1 fish & chips 15.95
1 Lobster Special 27.95
1 Sam Summer 4.47
2 Gls Tohu SB 12.00
2 Lemonade 3.30
1 Margarita 5.65
Total - $103.20
Jul 7, 2010
Maid of the Mist, Niagara Falls ON - July 2
Rating - 9.9999
This is a classic.....kids love...parents love it.....be prepared to GET WET if you go to the top level. We headed over the day after Canada Day around 10:30 am, reasonably short line (maybe 20 minutes) and were one of the first on the boat. Kids ran up top by the pilot house and boat quickly filled up.
Great views of American Falls, and excellent view of Canadian Falls - wind was blowing and it was a good thing we had the raincoats - I even put my hood on.
Tons of fun and a family tradition!
This is a classic.....kids love...parents love it.....be prepared to GET WET if you go to the top level. We headed over the day after Canada Day around 10:30 am, reasonably short line (maybe 20 minutes) and were one of the first on the boat. Kids ran up top by the pilot house and boat quickly filled up.
Great views of American Falls, and excellent view of Canadian Falls - wind was blowing and it was a good thing we had the raincoats - I even put my hood on.
Tons of fun and a family tradition!
Jul 6, 2010
Old School House Ice Cream, S. Chatham MA - July 6
Rating - 9.999
Great ice cream, excellent service, all in a former one room school house....this has long been a favorite of the kids....they love to sit in the old school desks, play with the juke box and when the blocks (when they are little)....
They employ all local kids and the service is great.....only "knock" is no air conditioning.....but the 'jimmies" are FREE.......
Great spot!
3 kids cones (with sprinkles or "jimmies")
2 bunts (small adults)
Total - around $16 including tip!
Great ice cream, excellent service, all in a former one room school house....this has long been a favorite of the kids....they love to sit in the old school desks, play with the juke box and when the blocks (when they are little)....
They employ all local kids and the service is great.....only "knock" is no air conditioning.....but the 'jimmies" are FREE.......
Great spot!
3 kids cones (with sprinkles or "jimmies")
2 bunts (small adults)
Total - around $16 including tip!
New England Pizza, Chatham MA - July 6
Rating - 9.9994
Arrived around 5:30 pm and were surprised not to find a line on this hot and muggy line....mamma was working the register and taking orders and she was quick to get us our pitcher of beer, lemonades and waters, and salad.....waited 15 - 20 minutes for our pies to arrive and the kids blew through $5 on the pinball machine.....
I really enjoy it because it is a family operation, its reasonably clean, lots of tables and a few flat screen tvs....
Pizza's were SO GOOD....I always eat too much here....everyone was happy.....
1 large cheese and 1/2 sausage
1 small veggie
1 ziti (noodles)
1 Pitcher of beer
2 lemonades
2 waters
Total $65.72
Arrived around 5:30 pm and were surprised not to find a line on this hot and muggy line....mamma was working the register and taking orders and she was quick to get us our pitcher of beer, lemonades and waters, and salad.....waited 15 - 20 minutes for our pies to arrive and the kids blew through $5 on the pinball machine.....
I really enjoy it because it is a family operation, its reasonably clean, lots of tables and a few flat screen tvs....
Pizza's were SO GOOD....I always eat too much here....everyone was happy.....
1 large cheese and 1/2 sausage
1 small veggie
1 ziti (noodles)
1 Pitcher of beer
2 lemonades
2 waters
Total $65.72
Ocean State Job Lot, Chatham MA - July 6
Rating - 4.21
Not the cleanest place, or the nicest employees, but they do have what you need in a beach town......boogie boards and flip flops. But it is CHEAP...you do get what you pay for!
Oh, be prepared to wait at check out!
Flip Flops Ladies 3.99
Body Board w/Leash 8.99
Not the cleanest place, or the nicest employees, but they do have what you need in a beach town......boogie boards and flip flops. But it is CHEAP...you do get what you pay for!
Oh, be prepared to wait at check out!
Flip Flops Ladies 3.99
Body Board w/Leash 8.99
Red Nun Restaurant, Chatham MA - July 5
Rating - 9.994
This place is GREAT.....very small dining room (only seats 26 with 3 round high-tops, 3 tables that seat 4, and 2 that seat 6) and small bar (maybe 10 stools) it is GREAT FUN.
We arrived at 6 pm on the night of an "As" game, and waited about 5 minutes for a table. Sharleen was a FABULOUS waitress, and even though every inch in the place was packed, she was friendly and efficient....we did not wait for anything.
Warning - the portions are SMALL, but excellent. I told Hot Mamma that I liked the fact they did not serve King Sized portions....but we did have to order an extra chicken finger dinner for the girls (each order only has 2 pieces).
Food is GREAT. I had the Swordfish special and it was a perfect steak with a light sauce, rice and some veggies....Hot Mamma had the Fish Tacos (only 2) and they were delightful.....I also had a cup of chowder (very small, decent but too many potatoes) and Katie LOVED the stuffed Quahog and Wedge salad.....
Took a bit for the food to come out, but it was well worth the wait.....
Best of all we had a prime parking spot for the As and we strolled over to the game which is an excellent adventure on its own!
Lemonade (2 @ 1.75) 3.50
Cup Clam - app 1.00
Stuffed Quahog 5.95
Wedge 4.95
Kid Pasta (2 @ 4.95) 9.90
Fish Tacos 10.95
Grilled Swordfish 16.95
Cape Cod Blonde Ale (2 @ 4.75) 9.50 ***not the best beer I have had, it was just ok
Bud Light Draft 3.50
Kid Finger (2 @ 4.95) 9.90
Total - $80.86
This place is GREAT.....very small dining room (only seats 26 with 3 round high-tops, 3 tables that seat 4, and 2 that seat 6) and small bar (maybe 10 stools) it is GREAT FUN.
We arrived at 6 pm on the night of an "As" game, and waited about 5 minutes for a table. Sharleen was a FABULOUS waitress, and even though every inch in the place was packed, she was friendly and efficient....we did not wait for anything.
Warning - the portions are SMALL, but excellent. I told Hot Mamma that I liked the fact they did not serve King Sized portions....but we did have to order an extra chicken finger dinner for the girls (each order only has 2 pieces).
Food is GREAT. I had the Swordfish special and it was a perfect steak with a light sauce, rice and some veggies....Hot Mamma had the Fish Tacos (only 2) and they were delightful.....I also had a cup of chowder (very small, decent but too many potatoes) and Katie LOVED the stuffed Quahog and Wedge salad.....
Took a bit for the food to come out, but it was well worth the wait.....
Best of all we had a prime parking spot for the As and we strolled over to the game which is an excellent adventure on its own!
Lemonade (2 @ 1.75) 3.50
Cup Clam - app 1.00
Stuffed Quahog 5.95
Wedge 4.95
Kid Pasta (2 @ 4.95) 9.90
Fish Tacos 10.95
Grilled Swordfish 16.95
Cape Cod Blonde Ale (2 @ 4.75) 9.50 ***not the best beer I have had, it was just ok
Bud Light Draft 3.50
Kid Finger (2 @ 4.95) 9.90
Total - $80.86
Kream 'n Kone, Chatham MA - July 3
Rating - 8.4421
Great food, long line, hard to find tables together....head here for dinner BEFORE 6 pm or you will wait in line for 1/2 hour to place your order....but it is WORTH IT.
We had 5 adults and 3 kids on a recent Saturday night...arrived around 6:15 and waited....dinner for all was over $100 (so it is expensive), but it was great.
I had the chowdah (excellent) and fish 'n chips (solid), others had the Clam Plate (really good) and I cant remember what else......
The atmosphere is great, and the kids love it!
Total - $118.83
Great food, long line, hard to find tables together....head here for dinner BEFORE 6 pm or you will wait in line for 1/2 hour to place your order....but it is WORTH IT.
We had 5 adults and 3 kids on a recent Saturday night...arrived around 6:15 and waited....dinner for all was over $100 (so it is expensive), but it was great.
I had the chowdah (excellent) and fish 'n chips (solid), others had the Clam Plate (really good) and I cant remember what else......
The atmosphere is great, and the kids love it!
Total - $118.83
Shop Ahoy Liquors, Chatham MA - July 5
Rating - 9.99743
This package store ROCKS...the guys know their wine and make great recommendations at very reasonable prices.....always ask them to pick one for me...they also usually have great beer specials....
Very friendly place to buy booze!
This package store ROCKS...the guys know their wine and make great recommendations at very reasonable prices.....always ask them to pick one for me...they also usually have great beer specials....
Very friendly place to buy booze!
Edgewaters Tap and Grill, Niagara Falls ON - July 1
Rating - 8.447
We headed into the bar area just before the fireworks began (at 10 pm) and couldn't get anyone to wait on us....so I wandered up to the bar. They were really busy as it was Canada Day, but did not seem too happy that we had three kids at one of the tables....but the bartender turned out to be GREAT!
We have been here in the past because they usually have a band that plays right outside, but we arrived too late for the band (they stop when fireworks begin). Fun place with a relaxed Canadian vibe....
We had a few beers, got ice cream for the kids (it was GREAT) and when the fireworks began everyone headed outside to watch. Good spot for fireworks........
Canadian Pint 7.50
Truis Cab Sau Gl 8.50
EW Ice Cream (3 @ 4.99) 14.97
Total - $35.00 + 7 tip = 42 CAN = 39.72 USD + 1.09 AMEX Fee
We headed into the bar area just before the fireworks began (at 10 pm) and couldn't get anyone to wait on us....so I wandered up to the bar. They were really busy as it was Canada Day, but did not seem too happy that we had three kids at one of the tables....but the bartender turned out to be GREAT!
We have been here in the past because they usually have a band that plays right outside, but we arrived too late for the band (they stop when fireworks begin). Fun place with a relaxed Canadian vibe....
We had a few beers, got ice cream for the kids (it was GREAT) and when the fireworks began everyone headed outside to watch. Good spot for fireworks........
Canadian Pint 7.50
Truis Cab Sau Gl 8.50
EW Ice Cream (3 @ 4.99) 14.97
Total - $35.00 + 7 tip = 42 CAN = 39.72 USD + 1.09 AMEX Fee
Niagara Skywheel, Niagara Falls ON - July 1
Rating - 2.225
Long wait - 50 minutes, short ride (maybe 4 times around), parents think it was a waste, kids thought it was "good" to "great" but did not like the wait.....they did like when we stopped at the top (to load others) and when it "went around". We did get our car as a family (5 of us) and the kids enjoyed pushing the buttons for lights and to mute the sound.
Otherwise nothing great, I would skip it unless the line was really short.
2 Adults 19.98
3 Kids 17.97
Total - 42.88 CAN - $40.55 USD + 1.07 AMEX Charge
Long wait - 50 minutes, short ride (maybe 4 times around), parents think it was a waste, kids thought it was "good" to "great" but did not like the wait.....they did like when we stopped at the top (to load others) and when it "went around". We did get our car as a family (5 of us) and the kids enjoyed pushing the buttons for lights and to mute the sound.
Otherwise nothing great, I would skip it unless the line was really short.
2 Adults 19.98
3 Kids 17.97
Total - 42.88 CAN - $40.55 USD + 1.07 AMEX Charge
The Keg, Niagara Falls ON - July 1
Rating - 7.441
Best to make a reservation long in advance on Canada Day....we went down with the kids around 5:30 and were seated in the bar area...they were REALLY busy...and Ben did a decent job of paying attention to us...but he was really BUSY.....
View from the bar sucks, but from the dining room you are looking right at the Horseshoe Falls....incredible view....we got to see it the next morning because the Embassy Suites serves breakfast in the same room....
The cheese toast was EXCELLENT as an app and their local beer is decent, but not great (Rickards Red)....kids meals were ok (but expensive at 9.95 and you pay for drink), and my 8 oz Teriaki Sirloin was decent, Hot Mamma liked the Seafood Sirloin.....
Decent dinner, ok service, expensive bill! No need to return....
3 Pint Rickards 22.50
2 Lemonade 7.90
1 Cheese Toast 6.95
3 Kids Strips 29.85
1 Seafood Sir 33.50
1 8 oz Teri Sir 23.95
1 Keg Trius Cab 13.75
Sub total 138.40
HST 15.23
DPF 4.15
Tip 30.01
Total - 187.78 CAN = 177.60 USD + 4.80 AMEX fee
Best to make a reservation long in advance on Canada Day....we went down with the kids around 5:30 and were seated in the bar area...they were REALLY busy...and Ben did a decent job of paying attention to us...but he was really BUSY.....
View from the bar sucks, but from the dining room you are looking right at the Horseshoe Falls....incredible view....we got to see it the next morning because the Embassy Suites serves breakfast in the same room....
The cheese toast was EXCELLENT as an app and their local beer is decent, but not great (Rickards Red)....kids meals were ok (but expensive at 9.95 and you pay for drink), and my 8 oz Teriaki Sirloin was decent, Hot Mamma liked the Seafood Sirloin.....
Decent dinner, ok service, expensive bill! No need to return....
3 Pint Rickards 22.50
2 Lemonade 7.90
1 Cheese Toast 6.95
3 Kids Strips 29.85
1 Seafood Sir 33.50
1 8 oz Teri Sir 23.95
1 Keg Trius Cab 13.75
Sub total 138.40
HST 15.23
DPF 4.15
Tip 30.01
Total - 187.78 CAN = 177.60 USD + 4.80 AMEX fee
Embassy Suites Fallsview, Niagara Falls ON - July 1
Rating - 6.224
The staff is very friendly, most are hometown kids, but the place is HUGE. Be prepared to WAIT A LONG TIME FOR THE ELEVATORS as there are 42 floors. Also, I head people loosing their minds when they checked in and didn't have a Falls View room......wow....
We were in room 3407 which had a Citi-view....I had called the GMs office to request a larger room since there was 5 of us and they took care of us....this is a GREAT room, lots of space, and it was QUIET.....very nice.
As mentioned, the waits for the elevator are painful. They do have happy hour, but you will only get your one drink and the wine is horrible....and the area is packed.
We had dinner at the Keg ( ), and they serve breakfast the next morning in the same place. Again, be prepared to wait for a table if you arrive at the "wrong" time, and the lines for the food are monster long...but all the wait staff were very friendly.
It is a very short walk to the train that takes you right down to the Canadian Horseshoe Falls.
At checkout it was at least a 40 minute wait for the friendly bellman to make it to the room.
Would I stay if I was paying.....probably not....I used my Hilton points.
Total - $33.90 CAN* *valet parking, its $20 to self park; $32.06 USD + 1.09 AMEX Charge
The staff is very friendly, most are hometown kids, but the place is HUGE. Be prepared to WAIT A LONG TIME FOR THE ELEVATORS as there are 42 floors. Also, I head people loosing their minds when they checked in and didn't have a Falls View room......wow....
We were in room 3407 which had a Citi-view....I had called the GMs office to request a larger room since there was 5 of us and they took care of us....this is a GREAT room, lots of space, and it was QUIET.....very nice.
As mentioned, the waits for the elevator are painful. They do have happy hour, but you will only get your one drink and the wine is horrible....and the area is packed.
We had dinner at the Keg ( ), and they serve breakfast the next morning in the same place. Again, be prepared to wait for a table if you arrive at the "wrong" time, and the lines for the food are monster long...but all the wait staff were very friendly.
It is a very short walk to the train that takes you right down to the Canadian Horseshoe Falls.
At checkout it was at least a 40 minute wait for the friendly bellman to make it to the room.
Would I stay if I was paying.....probably not....I used my Hilton points.
Total - $33.90 CAN* *valet parking, its $20 to self park; $32.06 USD + 1.09 AMEX Charge
Chicago to Cape Cod MA - July 1 - 2
Rating - LONG
Its about 1,000 miles.....and our drive to Niagara Falls took about 9 hours (also lost 1 due to time change)....we definitely need to leave by 6 am the next time so we can get into Canada around 3:30 and get on Maid of the Mist BEFORE dinner.
Drive the next day is shorter by an hour if you don't get hung up at the border.
Can I fly again?
Its about 1,000 miles.....and our drive to Niagara Falls took about 9 hours (also lost 1 due to time change)....we definitely need to leave by 6 am the next time so we can get into Canada around 3:30 and get on Maid of the Mist BEFORE dinner.
Drive the next day is shorter by an hour if you don't get hung up at the border.
Can I fly again?
Niagara Falls, Ontario CANADA - July 1
Rating - 7.113
Warning - July 1 is CANADA DAY and the place is swarmed with people looking to celebrate by walking very slowing on the streets around the falls....no one seems to care that it is PACKED with PEOPLE.....
I had no idea....it was not too bad crossing the border (we choose furthest East - about 1/2 hour drive to the Falls)...and it was not bad checking into the Embassy Suites (http://talesfromtheroad-mwalno.blogspot.com/2010/07/embassy-suites-fallsview-niagara-falls.html) .......and it was not so bad at the Keg (http://talesfromtheroad-mwalno.blogspot.com/2010/07/keg-niagara-falls-on-july-1.html ) where we had dinner....but it was BAD when we took the short walk to the Falls.
It was PACKED and hard to walk....we were trying to get down to the Maid of the Mist ( http://talesfromtheroad-mwalno.blogspot.com/2010/07/maid-of-mist-niagara-falls-on-july-2.html)...and it took over an hour.....by the time we got there it was closed (closes at 8 pm) so we walked over to the Skywheel ( http://talesfromtheroad-mwalno.blogspot.com/2010/07/niagara-skywheel-niagara-falls-on-july.html) which was a RIP OFF...
Then we went back to our favorite place for a night cap and some ice cream at Edgewaters Tap and Grill ( http://talesfromtheroad-mwalno.blogspot.com/2010/07/edgewaters-tap-and-grill-niagara-falls.html) where we watched the fireworks....they were short (about 12 minutes) and not that great......lots of people had sat out all night to get prime viewing spots and I bet they felt really STUPID....especially with all the crowds trying to get back to their hotels afterward.
After breakfast the next morning, we headed back to the Maid of the Mist, and then back to the hotel to head back to the crossing. Our bellman suggested we not try the bridge back to the USA right in the City, so we took the 1/2 hour ride back to the one we came in on...and hit a horrible line. It looked worst than it did and we got through in about 50 minutes...the TSA guy said it was over a 2 hour wait the day before.....
So BEWARE if its CANADA DAY!!!!!!!!!!
Warning - July 1 is CANADA DAY and the place is swarmed with people looking to celebrate by walking very slowing on the streets around the falls....no one seems to care that it is PACKED with PEOPLE.....
I had no idea....it was not too bad crossing the border (we choose furthest East - about 1/2 hour drive to the Falls)...and it was not bad checking into the Embassy Suites (http://talesfromtheroad-mwalno.blogspot.com/2010/07/embassy-suites-fallsview-niagara-falls.html) .......and it was not so bad at the Keg (http://talesfromtheroad-mwalno.blogspot.com/2010/07/keg-niagara-falls-on-july-1.html ) where we had dinner....but it was BAD when we took the short walk to the Falls.
It was PACKED and hard to walk....we were trying to get down to the Maid of the Mist ( http://talesfromtheroad-mwalno.blogspot.com/2010/07/maid-of-mist-niagara-falls-on-july-2.html)...and it took over an hour.....by the time we got there it was closed (closes at 8 pm) so we walked over to the Skywheel ( http://talesfromtheroad-mwalno.blogspot.com/2010/07/niagara-skywheel-niagara-falls-on-july.html) which was a RIP OFF...
Then we went back to our favorite place for a night cap and some ice cream at Edgewaters Tap and Grill ( http://talesfromtheroad-mwalno.blogspot.com/2010/07/edgewaters-tap-and-grill-niagara-falls.html) where we watched the fireworks....they were short (about 12 minutes) and not that great......lots of people had sat out all night to get prime viewing spots and I bet they felt really STUPID....especially with all the crowds trying to get back to their hotels afterward.
After breakfast the next morning, we headed back to the Maid of the Mist, and then back to the hotel to head back to the crossing. Our bellman suggested we not try the bridge back to the USA right in the City, so we took the 1/2 hour ride back to the one we came in on...and hit a horrible line. It looked worst than it did and we got through in about 50 minutes...the TSA guy said it was over a 2 hour wait the day before.....
So BEWARE if its CANADA DAY!!!!!!!!!!
Carmi's Crown Barber Shop, Chicago IL - June 30
Rating - 10.0++
This spot is PERFECT, exceptional service, superb hair cut, and all for only $20......
You have to LOVE a place where they answer the phone "The Best Barber Shop in the World".....
Located on the pedway in the Aon Building (200 E Randolph), give Carmi or Joe a ring at 312-856-5322, or take a chance and just walk in....if you have to wait a few minutes you can read either news paper (or the latest Playboy) or get your shoes shined by DeMarco.....
Carmi is off for a bit, but his son Joe is just as nice and every bit as good with the scissors....you get a cut and wash for $20....has to be THE BEST VALUE in the CITY.
I have been getting a cut every three weeks for the past 5 years and would not think of going any where else.
Love it!
This spot is PERFECT, exceptional service, superb hair cut, and all for only $20......
You have to LOVE a place where they answer the phone "The Best Barber Shop in the World".....
Located on the pedway in the Aon Building (200 E Randolph), give Carmi or Joe a ring at 312-856-5322, or take a chance and just walk in....if you have to wait a few minutes you can read either news paper (or the latest Playboy) or get your shoes shined by DeMarco.....
Carmi is off for a bit, but his son Joe is just as nice and every bit as good with the scissors....you get a cut and wash for $20....has to be THE BEST VALUE in the CITY.
I have been getting a cut every three weeks for the past 5 years and would not think of going any where else.
Love it!
Beehive Shoeworks, 35 N Wells Chicago IL - June 29
Rating - 8.445
Great place for a shoe shine and heel plates.....the guys who work here are fast, have plenty of news papers to reads, and do an EXCELLENT shine. I believe its only $4.
I also have my golf shoes done here...and while the work is GREAT its $16.....a bit on the high side.....but shoes are always ready when promised.
Only issue I have ever had was when I bought some laces for dress shoes....guys sold me the wrong length...and when I returned I was told they don't do returns....even though it was their guy that sold them to me!
Great place for a shoe shine and heel plates.....the guys who work here are fast, have plenty of news papers to reads, and do an EXCELLENT shine. I believe its only $4.
I also have my golf shoes done here...and while the work is GREAT its $16.....a bit on the high side.....but shoes are always ready when promised.
Only issue I have ever had was when I bought some laces for dress shoes....guys sold me the wrong length...and when I returned I was told they don't do returns....even though it was their guy that sold them to me!
Brooks Brothers, Chicago IL - July 29
Rating - 9.9947
Headed into the store at La Salle and Adams to get a few suits re-tailored.......scary to admit I lost some weight - hope it doesn't come back....and checked to see if Bob was still at the store.
He is and it was a wonderful experience. Tailor is awesome, old school charm, and the alterations were only $10 (one inch) and $20 (1 3/4").....great experience and excellent service.
If you want to look great, and not spend a ton of $$, give Bob a call.
PS. The place itself is amazing....I believe its the old "Rookery".
Headed into the store at La Salle and Adams to get a few suits re-tailored.......scary to admit I lost some weight - hope it doesn't come back....and checked to see if Bob was still at the store.
He is and it was a wonderful experience. Tailor is awesome, old school charm, and the alterations were only $10 (one inch) and $20 (1 3/4").....great experience and excellent service.
If you want to look great, and not spend a ton of $$, give Bob a call.
PS. The place itself is amazing....I believe its the old "Rookery".
Jun 27, 2010
AutoZone 3190, Naperville IL - June 27
Rating - 8.10001
Friendly place for a non-mechanical guy....stopped in on a Sunday around 11 am and there was no one in the store...headed to the counter to let them know what I was looking for and they printed a few slips and circled the items I needed to get....
Only complaint is why didn't the just walk with me to get them since there was no one else in the store.
However, you cant beat the price....the dealership wanted $50 to install a cabin air filter that was $10.99 in the store (and it took literally 2 seconds to install)......
Friendly place for a non-mechanical guy....stopped in on a Sunday around 11 am and there was no one in the store...headed to the counter to let them know what I was looking for and they printed a few slips and circled the items I needed to get....
Only complaint is why didn't the just walk with me to get them since there was no one else in the store.
However, you cant beat the price....the dealership wanted $50 to install a cabin air filter that was $10.99 in the store (and it took literally 2 seconds to install)......
Toy Story 3
Rating - Priceless
There is something for everyone in this movie....wether you are 44 or 5 you will enjoy it...my only complaint is that there is 20 minutes of trailers before you get to the movie.....
Fun, Fun, FUN!
There is something for everyone in this movie....wether you are 44 or 5 you will enjoy it...my only complaint is that there is 20 minutes of trailers before you get to the movie.....
Fun, Fun, FUN!
Stockholm's, Geneva IL - June 26
Rating - 10.00
Even during the crush of Swedish Days our friend Mike found us a spot in the back "beer garden" - really just a few tables outside - for the 7 of us (3 adults and 4 kids).
Ashley provided EXCELLENT service and always had a fresh drink for us, even though it was crazy busy inside with the crowd from the festival......
The steak sandwich is AWESOME and Hot Mamma loved her shrimp tacos....oh, I also had a few Franz's
Good times!
2 kid chicken 8.00
3 lemonade 6.00
1 Papas Italiano 7.59
1 kid macaroni 4.00
1 side ceaser 4.29
1 shrimp taco 11.49
1 filet mignon sand 12.49
5 Brancott Sauv Blc Gl 42.50
6 Franz 33.00
Total - $143.36
Even during the crush of Swedish Days our friend Mike found us a spot in the back "beer garden" - really just a few tables outside - for the 7 of us (3 adults and 4 kids).
Ashley provided EXCELLENT service and always had a fresh drink for us, even though it was crazy busy inside with the crowd from the festival......
The steak sandwich is AWESOME and Hot Mamma loved her shrimp tacos....oh, I also had a few Franz's
Good times!
2 kid chicken 8.00
3 lemonade 6.00
1 Papas Italiano 7.59
1 kid macaroni 4.00
1 side ceaser 4.29
1 shrimp taco 11.49
1 filet mignon sand 12.49
5 Brancott Sauv Blc Gl 42.50
6 Franz 33.00
Total - $143.36
Tinseltown USA, Aurora IL - June 26
Rating - 9.4421
Excellent place to see a movie early (12:30 pm) for $3 a person......theatres are clean and nice....and great to see an early show.
The large popcorn is HUGE......and they kind of make you get it with the pricing....and if you can drink the Diet Coke you deserve a prize......
2 tickets $6.00
1 Combo 1 (lg Diet coke, tub popcorn) 10.75
Total - $16.75
Excellent place to see a movie early (12:30 pm) for $3 a person......theatres are clean and nice....and great to see an early show.
The large popcorn is HUGE......and they kind of make you get it with the pricing....and if you can drink the Diet Coke you deserve a prize......
2 tickets $6.00
1 Combo 1 (lg Diet coke, tub popcorn) 10.75
Total - $16.75
2 Toots Steam Whistle Grille, Downers Grove IL - June 26
Rating - 10.00
Excellent.....I love the food (cheese burger) and little guy loves the food (chicken nuggets) and the TRAINS....we arrived around 11:15 and had our choice of seats.....sat at the counter...and by 11:45 the place was packed...
You have to have a rootbeer float.......
LOVE THIS PLACE!
1 Root beer float 4.25
1 cheese burger 6.95
1 kd chicken nuggets 4.25
Total - $16.69
Excellent.....I love the food (cheese burger) and little guy loves the food (chicken nuggets) and the TRAINS....we arrived around 11:15 and had our choice of seats.....sat at the counter...and by 11:45 the place was packed...
You have to have a rootbeer float.......
LOVE THIS PLACE!
1 Root beer float 4.25
1 cheese burger 6.95
1 kd chicken nuggets 4.25
Total - $16.69
DuPage Children's Meseum - June 27
Rating 9.99874
Arrived at 9:30 am on a Saturday morning and the place was OURS.....only a few kids/families there and it was awesome.....my little guy (5 years old) loves it no matter how crowded....but it was great early in the morning.........
They did a minor remodel and its better than ever.
Total - FREE - family membership
Arrived at 9:30 am on a Saturday morning and the place was OURS.....only a few kids/families there and it was awesome.....my little guy (5 years old) loves it no matter how crowded....but it was great early in the morning.........
They did a minor remodel and its better than ever.
Total - FREE - family membership
Jun 25, 2010
Pittsfield Cafe, Chicago IL - June 25
Rating - 9.22765
Had a great breakfast here with a friend today. We arrived around 7:15 am, found a seat, and were promptly served coffee and tea. Waitress came back a few minutes later, we ordered, and food was at the table within 5 minutes.
It was warm and EXCELLENT!!! I had a bagel sandwich - egg, cheese, and sausage links cut in half (a bit weird because I would have expected a sausage patty) and some hash browns (awesome). Mike had an omelet that he DESTROYED.
Good place to sit and have a chat also!
Total - Mike paid, but it was under $20 for the two of us...
Had a great breakfast here with a friend today. We arrived around 7:15 am, found a seat, and were promptly served coffee and tea. Waitress came back a few minutes later, we ordered, and food was at the table within 5 minutes.
It was warm and EXCELLENT!!! I had a bagel sandwich - egg, cheese, and sausage links cut in half (a bit weird because I would have expected a sausage patty) and some hash browns (awesome). Mike had an omelet that he DESTROYED.
Good place to sit and have a chat also!
Total - Mike paid, but it was under $20 for the two of us...
Jun 24, 2010
Hertz, Buffalo NY - June 24
Rating - .00001
They STILL SUCK!!!!!!!!!!!!
It is easy to get to the rental car terminal....just head to baggage and across the street...and right into the garage and a car.
As always my confirmed reservation was messed up (no credit card on file) and I forgot the certificate good for a free rental......but I was feeling pretty good when I got the keys to an STS Cadillac (nice ride).
However, when I brought the car back, the bill was for $127.49 - I WAS ROBBED - for what should have been a FREE car.
Total - $127.49 + taxes = $138.99 (actually not too much in taxes compared to other cities)
They STILL SUCK!!!!!!!!!!!!
It is easy to get to the rental car terminal....just head to baggage and across the street...and right into the garage and a car.
As always my confirmed reservation was messed up (no credit card on file) and I forgot the certificate good for a free rental......but I was feeling pretty good when I got the keys to an STS Cadillac (nice ride).
However, when I brought the car back, the bill was for $127.49 - I WAS ROBBED - for what should have been a FREE car.
Total - $127.49 + taxes = $138.99 (actually not too much in taxes compared to other cities)
Buffalo (BUF) Airport, Buffalo NY - June 24
Rating - 9.7421
Very clean, spacious, quick security, excellent restaurant/bar -http://talesfromtheroad-mwalno.blogspot.com/2010/06/anchor-bar-buffalo-ny-airport-june-24.html ......I wish this was my home airport....except the one AA gate SUCKS for updates when your plane is a few hours late.
My only disappointment was that we didn't fly over the Falls...in fact it was kind of weird because we flew in over farm fields...not what I think of Buffalo.....
Anyway, GREAT airport and easy access to rental cars.
Very clean, spacious, quick security, excellent restaurant/bar -http://talesfromtheroad-mwalno.blogspot.com/2010/06/anchor-bar-buffalo-ny-airport-june-24.html ......I wish this was my home airport....except the one AA gate SUCKS for updates when your plane is a few hours late.
My only disappointment was that we didn't fly over the Falls...in fact it was kind of weird because we flew in over farm fields...not what I think of Buffalo.....
Anyway, GREAT airport and easy access to rental cars.
Anchor Bar, Buffalo NY (airport) - June 24
Rating - 10.00
Excellent! Wing are exceptional, and the service by TONY was SPECTACULAR!!!
We were stuck in the fantastic Buffalo airport - http://talesfromtheroad-mwalno.blogspot.com/2010/06/buffalo-buf-airport-buffalo-ny-june-24.html - for a few hours and grabbed a spot at the bar for a bite to eat and a beer.....turned into two bites and several beers......but it was "easy" time......
You have to pass this place when you enter/leave the terminal, and it was pretty crowded at the tables....we were lucky to find two spots at the bar (it was crowded the entire time we were there 4-6 pm)...comfortable and lots of tvs tuned to the World Cup (who cares?).
Tony made sure our beers were full and when we ordered the World Famous Wings they were up in just a couple of minutes...and the are PERFECT.....perfectly cooked and perfectly sauces...we had the "hot" wings and they were hot enough to leave an after taste, but not so hot as to destroy your lips.....
Stop in here anytime you are flying in/out for an awesome experience.....
2 2X Tier III (Shamus was drinking whiskey on the rocks) 21.50
4 Labatts Blue @ 4.86 (yikes, I thought I had 3) 19.44
2 Wings Hot @ 11.50 23.00
Tip 16.00
Total - $85.53
Excellent! Wing are exceptional, and the service by TONY was SPECTACULAR!!!
We were stuck in the fantastic Buffalo airport - http://talesfromtheroad-mwalno.blogspot.com/2010/06/buffalo-buf-airport-buffalo-ny-june-24.html - for a few hours and grabbed a spot at the bar for a bite to eat and a beer.....turned into two bites and several beers......but it was "easy" time......
You have to pass this place when you enter/leave the terminal, and it was pretty crowded at the tables....we were lucky to find two spots at the bar (it was crowded the entire time we were there 4-6 pm)...comfortable and lots of tvs tuned to the World Cup (who cares?).
Tony made sure our beers were full and when we ordered the World Famous Wings they were up in just a couple of minutes...and the are PERFECT.....perfectly cooked and perfectly sauces...we had the "hot" wings and they were hot enough to leave an after taste, but not so hot as to destroy your lips.....
Stop in here anytime you are flying in/out for an awesome experience.....
2 2X Tier III (Shamus was drinking whiskey on the rocks) 21.50
4 Labatts Blue @ 4.86 (yikes, I thought I had 3) 19.44
2 Wings Hot @ 11.50 23.00
Tip 16.00
Total - $85.53
Jun 23, 2010
Vertical Endeavors, Warrenville IL - June 23
Rating - 9.999999
Excellent staff and GREAT place to hold a 10 year olds birthday!! Beth helped our group and was AWESOME - patient and kind with all the kids, and willing to help in any way.
We actually had a party here for our older daughter a few years ago, and had a great time then also.
Party time is 2 hours of climbing, and there are walls for every skill level, the little guy (age 5) could even particapte. It was a bit busier this time, summer break/crummy weather, and there were lots of kids and groups, but it really did not feel crowded.
Great service and GREAT FUN!
Total - $No idea
Excellent staff and GREAT place to hold a 10 year olds birthday!! Beth helped our group and was AWESOME - patient and kind with all the kids, and willing to help in any way.
We actually had a party here for our older daughter a few years ago, and had a great time then also.
Party time is 2 hours of climbing, and there are walls for every skill level, the little guy (age 5) could even particapte. It was a bit busier this time, summer break/crummy weather, and there were lots of kids and groups, but it really did not feel crowded.
Great service and GREAT FUN!
Total - $No idea
Atlanta Bread, Naperville IL - June 23
Rating - 2.2
Come on...this is almost EXACTLY like Panera Bread....except, well to me its EXACTLY the same....except the men's bathroom is DISGUSTING.
I stopped in to grab a bite and change clothes, and came in here instead of the Chipolte that shares the same building.....big mistake.
I had the roast beef and cheddar, and while it was good, bread was not as good as Panera.....and I thought it cost more. I did like the service, and the guy who took my order was extremely friendly. However, it was around 1:30 pm and the place was empty.
There was a sign on my table that said "family owned and operated" and I would go to a local place over a chain at anytime, but what's up with "Atlanta" Bread company....how about Naperville Bread?
1 Roast beef 5.89
Cheddar .50
Softdrink 1.79
Total - $9.10** **RIP OFF**
Come on...this is almost EXACTLY like Panera Bread....except, well to me its EXACTLY the same....except the men's bathroom is DISGUSTING.
I stopped in to grab a bite and change clothes, and came in here instead of the Chipolte that shares the same building.....big mistake.
I had the roast beef and cheddar, and while it was good, bread was not as good as Panera.....and I thought it cost more. I did like the service, and the guy who took my order was extremely friendly. However, it was around 1:30 pm and the place was empty.
There was a sign on my table that said "family owned and operated" and I would go to a local place over a chain at anytime, but what's up with "Atlanta" Bread company....how about Naperville Bread?
1 Roast beef 5.89
Cheddar .50
Softdrink 1.79
Total - $9.10** **RIP OFF**
Jun 22, 2010
Gold Coast Hotdogs #1522, Union Station - Chicago, IL - June 22
Rating - 2.3
Not a great beef.....skimpy on the beef....and no taste to it.....dry bun that was not very good also.....I won't stop here again even though it is convenient when you are running for the train....no wonder all the other joints in the food court had lines and no one was here.
Italian Beef Sandwich 4.99
Total - $5.56
Not a great beef.....skimpy on the beef....and no taste to it.....dry bun that was not very good also.....I won't stop here again even though it is convenient when you are running for the train....no wonder all the other joints in the food court had lines and no one was here.
Italian Beef Sandwich 4.99
Total - $5.56
Jun 21, 2010
Disney Vaction 2008
Rating - 9.444
It was pretty GREAT! I ran across some receipts and decided to post what I had....you can also do a search and see the posting I had from November 11, 2008. I will do a better job this year.....
Grand Floridian Resort and Spa - November 5 - 10th
Awesome. Beautiful. Great Service. Close to the parks (by boat or monorail). Small pool that is not that great. Fun on the boats you can rent. Larger rooms for the family to sleep in. Room 7310?
We shall return (in November 2010)
Gasparilla's - November 6
Solid breakfast, good food, quick service.
Grand Brkfst Platt 6.29
KM Breakfast Plat 4.09
Total - $11.06
Citricos - November 8
P Mudslide Martini 8.25
Romaine Salad
Salad
Choc Banana Tort
Gls Heidsk 15.00
KM Vegetable Plate 3.00
Grand Margarita 2 @ 9.25 18.50
Rib eye Steak
Cheesecake
KM Butter Pasta 7.00
KM Butter Pasta 7.00
KM Vegetable Plate 3.00
KM Butter Pasta 7.00
Tip 34.00
Total - $ 115.75
Norway Akershus - November 7
We went here for the Princess Dinner....it was in Epcott...it was fun for me and Hot Mamma to wander around the countries and drink beers later in the evening....but we were kind of bored by the experience. Fun at first, but it wears off quick. And this park required us to transfer monorails, and it too a while.
Kids were pretty bored....I did set the record with the little guy because we went on the Nemo ride for a few hours (no wait)...and the girls liked Test Track....but we thought Soaring was boring also.
The restaurant was a DISASTER, huge line at the seating, and it was worse because the line was really to get a family portrait shot....we skipped that and sat down. Food = not good. Princess with dinner = AWESOME.
I am sure there is a better spot with the same characters that is a better experience.
KM Pizza 19.99
KM Ravioli 19.99
Large Carlsberg 6.75
Gls Princ Gavi Crt 9.00
Pork Shank 35.99
Salmon 35.99
Total - $139.02
Grand Floridian Cafe - November 6
Gls Moon Mntn Cab 15.00
Strawberry Salad 5.99
Chicken Soup 4.79
Heineken Light 5.75
Amstel Light 5.75
It was pretty GREAT! I ran across some receipts and decided to post what I had....you can also do a search and see the posting I had from November 11, 2008. I will do a better job this year.....
Grand Floridian Resort and Spa - November 5 - 10th
Awesome. Beautiful. Great Service. Close to the parks (by boat or monorail). Small pool that is not that great. Fun on the boats you can rent. Larger rooms for the family to sleep in. Room 7310?
We shall return (in November 2010)
Gasparilla's - November 6
Solid breakfast, good food, quick service.
Grand Brkfst Platt 6.29
KM Breakfast Plat 4.09
Total - $11.06
Citricos - November 8
P Mudslide Martini 8.25
Romaine Salad
Salad
Choc Banana Tort
Gls Heidsk 15.00
KM Vegetable Plate 3.00
Grand Margarita 2 @ 9.25 18.50
Rib eye Steak
Cheesecake
KM Butter Pasta 7.00
KM Butter Pasta 7.00
KM Vegetable Plate 3.00
KM Butter Pasta 7.00
Tip 34.00
Total - $ 115.75
Norway Akershus - November 7
We went here for the Princess Dinner....it was in Epcott...it was fun for me and Hot Mamma to wander around the countries and drink beers later in the evening....but we were kind of bored by the experience. Fun at first, but it wears off quick. And this park required us to transfer monorails, and it too a while.
Kids were pretty bored....I did set the record with the little guy because we went on the Nemo ride for a few hours (no wait)...and the girls liked Test Track....but we thought Soaring was boring also.
The restaurant was a DISASTER, huge line at the seating, and it was worse because the line was really to get a family portrait shot....we skipped that and sat down. Food = not good. Princess with dinner = AWESOME.
I am sure there is a better spot with the same characters that is a better experience.
KM Pizza 19.99
KM Ravioli 19.99
Large Carlsberg 6.75
Gls Princ Gavi Crt 9.00
Pork Shank 35.99
Salmon 35.99
Total - $139.02
Grand Floridian Cafe - November 6
Gls Moon Mntn Cab 15.00
Strawberry Salad 5.99
Chicken Soup 4.79
Heineken Light 5.75
Amstel Light 5.75
Massage Envy Spa, Naperville IL - June 20
Rating - 4.33
Its over rated. Facility is VERY NICE, and my wife got me in on Father's Day....but the treatment was just ok.
I have had many BETTER massages.....I had heard from other massage therapists that they start at Massage Envy and when they get good they move to "better" spas....and I believe it.
The first time massage is $49, then the next is $78 - OR you can join their "club". $59/month gets you one "free" massage, and you get other monthly massages for $39....sounds great if the treatment was great.....but don't you wonder how the therapists can make any $$$?
I will not return.
Total - $49.00** **for first time massage, next time is $78
Its over rated. Facility is VERY NICE, and my wife got me in on Father's Day....but the treatment was just ok.
I have had many BETTER massages.....I had heard from other massage therapists that they start at Massage Envy and when they get good they move to "better" spas....and I believe it.
The first time massage is $49, then the next is $78 - OR you can join their "club". $59/month gets you one "free" massage, and you get other monthly massages for $39....sounds great if the treatment was great.....but don't you wonder how the therapists can make any $$$?
I will not return.
Total - $49.00** **for first time massage, next time is $78
Two Brothers Tap House, Warrenville IL - June 19
Rating - 9.998
Please don't go here....I don't want any competition for my new FAVORITE spot for beers and dinner......WOW is it FUN....and GOOD
Headed out on Saturday night with a "favorite" neighborhood couple at 6 pm and we kind of had a hard time finding it....and our daughter used to do gymnastics in the same building before...and now it is an EXCELLENT brewery and bar/restaurant.
I love it even more because there is NO SIGN anywhere on the building...except for a small sign taped on the door that says "entrance"....and when you walk in you are met by a wooden (plywood) hostess stand....
The crowd was mix of families and couples out for dinner and as the night wore on it became filled with groups of 3 guys.....you can sit outside (bug alert)....at tables/booths in dining area....or at the bar or high bar tables.
We choose the bar. It probably seats 20 and there are a few flat screen tvs, the SERVICE we received from Paul P was EXCEPTIONAL...and the beer was even better!!!!!!!!! It was kind of funny because everyone else was drinking wine (white or red - Chianti) - that was hand poured from the bottle (no measuring for exact amounts), and I was drinking the Weiss.
The beer here is so good it is sold in many bars around Chicago, and they got a contract to sell to Costco at the beginning of 2010....only problem being Costco demands such great volume, and limited capacity (brewed on location) that it can sometimes lead to shortages.
I loved this place because its all about the beer, good times and great service. The Weiss was served at the perfect temperature (slightly cooler than room temp) and had great flavor and a crisp after-taste. The food is bar food - PERFECT - we had the cheese fries (hand cut, lots of cheese and bacon) and the chicken nachos (not quite as good). Dinner was Ruben (excellent), bacon cheddar burger (mine - wonderful, hand made, perfect temperature, excellent cheese, crisp bacon) and the special chicken sandwich (which the girls split - and in a nice touch they split the sandwich onto separate plates and also split the fries) and cheese plate (I liked it).
All about good beer, good times, and bar food. Please don't go so I can get a seat whenever I want it......
1 Chicken Nachos 10.00
1 Cheese Fries 8.00
1 Reuben 9.00
1 Classic Burger 8.00
cheddar 1.00
Bacon .50
1 Cheese Plate 10.00
1 Special Chicken 8.00
1 Gl White 6.00
8 Gl Ebel's Weiss @ 5.00 20.00
Total - 133.95*** Exceptional value for a night out!!!!
Please don't go here....I don't want any competition for my new FAVORITE spot for beers and dinner......WOW is it FUN....and GOOD
Headed out on Saturday night with a "favorite" neighborhood couple at 6 pm and we kind of had a hard time finding it....and our daughter used to do gymnastics in the same building before...and now it is an EXCELLENT brewery and bar/restaurant.
I love it even more because there is NO SIGN anywhere on the building...except for a small sign taped on the door that says "entrance"....and when you walk in you are met by a wooden (plywood) hostess stand....
The crowd was mix of families and couples out for dinner and as the night wore on it became filled with groups of 3 guys.....you can sit outside (bug alert)....at tables/booths in dining area....or at the bar or high bar tables.
We choose the bar. It probably seats 20 and there are a few flat screen tvs, the SERVICE we received from Paul P was EXCEPTIONAL...and the beer was even better!!!!!!!!! It was kind of funny because everyone else was drinking wine (white or red - Chianti) - that was hand poured from the bottle (no measuring for exact amounts), and I was drinking the Weiss.
The beer here is so good it is sold in many bars around Chicago, and they got a contract to sell to Costco at the beginning of 2010....only problem being Costco demands such great volume, and limited capacity (brewed on location) that it can sometimes lead to shortages.
I loved this place because its all about the beer, good times and great service. The Weiss was served at the perfect temperature (slightly cooler than room temp) and had great flavor and a crisp after-taste. The food is bar food - PERFECT - we had the cheese fries (hand cut, lots of cheese and bacon) and the chicken nachos (not quite as good). Dinner was Ruben (excellent), bacon cheddar burger (mine - wonderful, hand made, perfect temperature, excellent cheese, crisp bacon) and the special chicken sandwich (which the girls split - and in a nice touch they split the sandwich onto separate plates and also split the fries) and cheese plate (I liked it).
All about good beer, good times, and bar food. Please don't go so I can get a seat whenever I want it......
1 Chicken Nachos 10.00
1 Cheese Fries 8.00
1 Reuben 9.00
1 Classic Burger 8.00
cheddar 1.00
Bacon .50
1 Cheese Plate 10.00
1 Special Chicken 8.00
1 Gl White 6.00
8 Gl Ebel's Weiss @ 5.00 20.00
Total - 133.95*** Exceptional value for a night out!!!!
Jun 19, 2010
2009 Cape Cod Vacation
Recap of the trip:
Outback Steakhouse, Erie PA - July 18
Great spot for dinner with the kids...we arrived after a long drive from the Cape and were seated right away.....
Excellent service from Kathryn C, and typical Outback chow - cheese fries, great steaks, beers, and an enjoyable evening!
Give this spot a try......
Patron Rita 8.50 (you would too after driving all day)
2 KJ Chard 15.90
2 Cold Bev 4.18
Tap Water 0.00
Cheese fries 7.95
Lemonade 2.25
Stk & GSB 6 oz 9.95
Gr Cheese 3.95
Finger 4.95
Kids Mac 3.95
Teri Sirloin 9 oz 13.95
2 BB Fosters 8.90
Choc Martini 6.00
Scoop 1.59
2 Dog 3.90
Total - $100.32
Impudent Oyster, Chatham MA - July 16
This place ROCKS!! Make sure you call for a reservation.....
We arrived and joint was packed so we settled in at the (small) bar for a drink and waited 15 minutes for our table to be ready. The "vibe" in here is great, its small and intimate, with excellent service and exceptional food.
A bit on the expensive side, but this is worth treating the wives to dinner here.
Tuna Shikoku 14.95
Devils Horseback 11.95
Clam Chowder 4.00
Cup of Butternut 3.50
Wedge Salad 8.95
Bouillabaisse 33.95
Sword Napoli 30.95
Cod Savannah 32.95
Boiled Lobster 30.95
Cakebread Chard 60.00
Hefeweizen 10.50
Total - $254.80
The Tavern at Chatham Bars Inn, Chatham MA - July 16
This place SUCKS.
Maybe the most pretentious place in the world.....it was a complete joke as we were walking in the back to the have a drink....some old bag gave my wife a look up and down.......and made a sour face......she had obviously not seen anyone that attractive in a long time.....
It continued once we got inside....full of "old money" who were snooty....bar tender was not very friendly nor good.....
Head over to the Squire to be with the REAL people.
1 PNoir Row11 15.00
1 Cape Cod IPA 6.50
Total - $22.58
Dennis Pines Golf Course, Dennis MA - July 16
Excellent course, well maintained, tough greens and a nice pace of play (I did have the second tee time). I enjoyed it because it is an easy course to walk, even though I played horrible.
From the blue tees its only 6,509, 72.2/133, but plays much tougher than that....however, while be tortured it is very enjoyable!
Total - $60.00 (walking)
Meservey's Family Restaurant, Chatham MA - July 15
We had always driven by on our way into town...and now I know why.
The decor is great for a 4 year old boy (it has a car theme everywhere) with tons of great memorabilia, and the service was pretty good, but the food was marginal at best.
Its cheap, and you get what you pay for. This was a new spot for us in Chatham, and we won't be back.
Total - $69.56 (dinner for 5 + drinks)
Larry's P.X., Chatham MA - July 15
Right on the corner of the turn to Hardings Beach Road you could should stop here for BREAKFAST because it is GREAT. Pays to be a bit early as it gets crowded at peak times...but again its worth the wait!
Very kid friendly, love the egg and cheese sandwich, pancakes, waffles, and everything else on the menu.
Great service at a reasonable price. They also sell beach toys and other items you need for the sand...
Total - $51.61 (for the 5 of us)
Chatham Squire, Chatham MA - July 10
Oh YES, a family favorite.....have to have dinner at the Squire.....kids love it and so do the parents....
Tough to get into the dining room unless you go early, best to try the bar area or back bar area......very family friendly....and the FOOD is GREAT.
Kids love the food, but like the game room better - it is always filled with kids...
Cup Chowder
2 kids fingers
kids linguine
fish and chips
lobster special
Sams summers (plural)
wines (plural)
Total - $99.50
New England Pizza #3, Chatham MA - July 7
Exceptional Pizza.....we LOVE IT....and the place is a family spot and has a warm feel to it....plus there is nothing like getting to witness the older mom running the counter and yelling at the family members (just like home!).....
Kids like it for the food and the video games.....but pizza is fantastic!
Cream 'n' Kone, Chatham MA - July 5
Excellent!!! A family favorite! While the line can be a bit long at 6 pm, you can either call in an order or just wait 10 minutes or so......its well worth it.....LOVE THE FOOD (even the kids)....BEST CHOWDAH on the Cape....and fish and chips are good (if greasy)......Hot Mamma loved the clam plate.
And after dinner you can get a HUGE ice cream cone at the same spot!
Total - $52.19 (3 kids meals, beer, wine, fish/chips, clam plate, chowdah)
Hard Rock Cafe, Niagara Falls NY - July 2
Headed over for dinner with the kids after the drive from Chicago and spending the afternoon at the US Falls.....hungry and worn out.....
Place was crowded, but we were seated quickly.....service is not very good, nor is the food......but we had a few drinks and wandered around the place to look at all the cool memorabilia.....
I have to go now because my dinner may finally be ready.....
Outback Steakhouse, Erie PA - July 18
Great spot for dinner with the kids...we arrived after a long drive from the Cape and were seated right away.....
Excellent service from Kathryn C, and typical Outback chow - cheese fries, great steaks, beers, and an enjoyable evening!
Give this spot a try......
Patron Rita 8.50 (you would too after driving all day)
2 KJ Chard 15.90
2 Cold Bev 4.18
Tap Water 0.00
Cheese fries 7.95
Lemonade 2.25
Stk & GSB 6 oz 9.95
Gr Cheese 3.95
Finger 4.95
Kids Mac 3.95
Teri Sirloin 9 oz 13.95
2 BB Fosters 8.90
Choc Martini 6.00
Scoop 1.59
2 Dog 3.90
Total - $100.32
Impudent Oyster, Chatham MA - July 16
This place ROCKS!! Make sure you call for a reservation.....
We arrived and joint was packed so we settled in at the (small) bar for a drink and waited 15 minutes for our table to be ready. The "vibe" in here is great, its small and intimate, with excellent service and exceptional food.
A bit on the expensive side, but this is worth treating the wives to dinner here.
Tuna Shikoku 14.95
Devils Horseback 11.95
Clam Chowder 4.00
Cup of Butternut 3.50
Wedge Salad 8.95
Bouillabaisse 33.95
Sword Napoli 30.95
Cod Savannah 32.95
Boiled Lobster 30.95
Cakebread Chard 60.00
Hefeweizen 10.50
Total - $254.80
The Tavern at Chatham Bars Inn, Chatham MA - July 16
This place SUCKS.
Maybe the most pretentious place in the world.....it was a complete joke as we were walking in the back to the have a drink....some old bag gave my wife a look up and down.......and made a sour face......she had obviously not seen anyone that attractive in a long time.....
It continued once we got inside....full of "old money" who were snooty....bar tender was not very friendly nor good.....
Head over to the Squire to be with the REAL people.
1 PNoir Row11 15.00
1 Cape Cod IPA 6.50
Total - $22.58
Dennis Pines Golf Course, Dennis MA - July 16
Excellent course, well maintained, tough greens and a nice pace of play (I did have the second tee time). I enjoyed it because it is an easy course to walk, even though I played horrible.
From the blue tees its only 6,509, 72.2/133, but plays much tougher than that....however, while be tortured it is very enjoyable!
Total - $60.00 (walking)
Meservey's Family Restaurant, Chatham MA - July 15
We had always driven by on our way into town...and now I know why.
The decor is great for a 4 year old boy (it has a car theme everywhere) with tons of great memorabilia, and the service was pretty good, but the food was marginal at best.
Its cheap, and you get what you pay for. This was a new spot for us in Chatham, and we won't be back.
Total - $69.56 (dinner for 5 + drinks)
Larry's P.X., Chatham MA - July 15
Right on the corner of the turn to Hardings Beach Road you could should stop here for BREAKFAST because it is GREAT. Pays to be a bit early as it gets crowded at peak times...but again its worth the wait!
Very kid friendly, love the egg and cheese sandwich, pancakes, waffles, and everything else on the menu.
Great service at a reasonable price. They also sell beach toys and other items you need for the sand...
Total - $51.61 (for the 5 of us)
Chatham Squire, Chatham MA - July 10
Oh YES, a family favorite.....have to have dinner at the Squire.....kids love it and so do the parents....
Tough to get into the dining room unless you go early, best to try the bar area or back bar area......very family friendly....and the FOOD is GREAT.
Kids love the food, but like the game room better - it is always filled with kids...
Cup Chowder
2 kids fingers
kids linguine
fish and chips
lobster special
Sams summers (plural)
wines (plural)
Total - $99.50
New England Pizza #3, Chatham MA - July 7
Exceptional Pizza.....we LOVE IT....and the place is a family spot and has a warm feel to it....plus there is nothing like getting to witness the older mom running the counter and yelling at the family members (just like home!).....
Kids like it for the food and the video games.....but pizza is fantastic!
Cream 'n' Kone, Chatham MA - July 5
Excellent!!! A family favorite! While the line can be a bit long at 6 pm, you can either call in an order or just wait 10 minutes or so......its well worth it.....LOVE THE FOOD (even the kids)....BEST CHOWDAH on the Cape....and fish and chips are good (if greasy)......Hot Mamma loved the clam plate.
And after dinner you can get a HUGE ice cream cone at the same spot!
Total - $52.19 (3 kids meals, beer, wine, fish/chips, clam plate, chowdah)
Hard Rock Cafe, Niagara Falls NY - July 2
Headed over for dinner with the kids after the drive from Chicago and spending the afternoon at the US Falls.....hungry and worn out.....
Place was crowded, but we were seated quickly.....service is not very good, nor is the food......but we had a few drinks and wandered around the place to look at all the cool memorabilia.....
I have to go now because my dinner may finally be ready.....
Jun 18, 2010
W Atlanta Buckhead, Atlanta GA - June 15
Rating - 8.3
Fun - yeah, Great - no. I only stayed here because it was so much cheaper than the Hyatt...but I was glad I did.
I am not a huge fan of the "hip" hotel, and think it is silly when only one person is working a "check in" desk - although it doesn't look like that. The decor was over the top for me, but i was in room 707.
It was 2 rooms over from the elevator, but it was QUIET.
Liked: how quiet it was, work area with plugs in desk, tv, staff is very friendly and goes out of way to help.
Hated: bathroom in the room (no separation), shower (not real warm, no door, and right next to toilet), food/water they try to sell when you walk in room, bed (horrible night sleep), valet parking (only option at $30/day), the gym - it is not really a gym - just two open rooms with a few barbells, couple of ellipticals, and a punching bag - disappointing.
Had a good breakfast in the restaurant, and a drink in roof top bar before bed.
No reason to stay here again (except for Sprint rate).
Room Charge 129.00 (sprint rate)
Tax 10.32
Occupancy 9.03
Wheels 30.00 (valet - only option)
Total - $178.35
Fun - yeah, Great - no. I only stayed here because it was so much cheaper than the Hyatt...but I was glad I did.
I am not a huge fan of the "hip" hotel, and think it is silly when only one person is working a "check in" desk - although it doesn't look like that. The decor was over the top for me, but i was in room 707.
It was 2 rooms over from the elevator, but it was QUIET.
Liked: how quiet it was, work area with plugs in desk, tv, staff is very friendly and goes out of way to help.
Hated: bathroom in the room (no separation), shower (not real warm, no door, and right next to toilet), food/water they try to sell when you walk in room, bed (horrible night sleep), valet parking (only option at $30/day), the gym - it is not really a gym - just two open rooms with a few barbells, couple of ellipticals, and a punching bag - disappointing.
Had a good breakfast in the restaurant, and a drink in roof top bar before bed.
No reason to stay here again (except for Sprint rate).
Room Charge 129.00 (sprint rate)
Tax 10.32
Occupancy 9.03
Wheels 30.00 (valet - only option)
Total - $178.35
National Car Renatl, Atlanta GA - June 16
Rating - 9.88
Great service again....love getting to choose the car I want to rent.....low mileage and is clean.....happy days.
It is a bit of pain to get on a separate transportation system to get to the new rental car center....have to go through baggage claim and take the short ride...
2 days (60.50)
lots of fees
Total - $158.77
Great service again....love getting to choose the car I want to rent.....low mileage and is clean.....happy days.
It is a bit of pain to get on a separate transportation system to get to the new rental car center....have to go through baggage claim and take the short ride...
2 days (60.50)
lots of fees
Total - $158.77
Dantanna's Surf, Turf & Turf, Atlanta GA - June 15
Rating - 9.444
Sports Bar = NO (by Chicago Standards), but fun place for beers, great apps and entrees = YES.
We were there on a Wednesday night during the NBA Championship....arrived around 7 (game started at 8) and the restaurant was fairly empty and the bar was 1/2 full (it had been pouring rain)....got a table in the bar and the place slowly filled up.
Jephreda provided excellent service through-out the night (even when really crowded) and the food was fabulous! We had the wings as an app (GREAT) and I had the filet (GREAT, GREAT, GREAT).
Everyone in Atlanta says this is a sports bar = NO. ONE Big Screen, with 3 smaller screens on each side.....PLEASE come to Chicago to see a sports bar.
I will give ATL props for the bar being pretty crowded for the NBA finals......but that is it.....kind of reminds me of Portland and the guys playing a board game during the Trail Blazers playoff game....
Wings HOT (2 @ 9) 18.00
420 Draft (5 @ 4.50) 22.50
Zinf Short Ribs 19.00 (Tom loved these)
420 Draft (4 @4.50) 18.00
Fish and Chips 14.00 (Tony said these were ok)
Paulander (4 @ 7.25) 29.00 (excellent beer)
8 oz Filet 28.00
Total - $161.56
Sports Bar = NO (by Chicago Standards), but fun place for beers, great apps and entrees = YES.
We were there on a Wednesday night during the NBA Championship....arrived around 7 (game started at 8) and the restaurant was fairly empty and the bar was 1/2 full (it had been pouring rain)....got a table in the bar and the place slowly filled up.
Jephreda provided excellent service through-out the night (even when really crowded) and the food was fabulous! We had the wings as an app (GREAT) and I had the filet (GREAT, GREAT, GREAT).
Everyone in Atlanta says this is a sports bar = NO. ONE Big Screen, with 3 smaller screens on each side.....PLEASE come to Chicago to see a sports bar.
I will give ATL props for the bar being pretty crowded for the NBA finals......but that is it.....kind of reminds me of Portland and the guys playing a board game during the Trail Blazers playoff game....
Wings HOT (2 @ 9) 18.00
420 Draft (5 @ 4.50) 22.50
Zinf Short Ribs 19.00 (Tom loved these)
420 Draft (4 @4.50) 18.00
Fish and Chips 14.00 (Tony said these were ok)
Paulander (4 @ 7.25) 29.00 (excellent beer)
8 oz Filet 28.00
Total - $161.56
Quizno's Sub #13260, Atlanta GA - June 15
Rating - 8.90
Excellent service, solid food, nice joint!
The place just opened in the corner of a strip mall....I was impressed when the owner opened the door fand welcomed us....
They had a good crowd when we arrived just before noon, very friendly employees who were pleasant and efficient. Place was spotless (it should be since it just opened), we ate quickly and hit the road....
Great spot!
Rg Brbn Chickn 5.99
Btl Soda 1.89
Rg Mesquite 6.49
Chips 1.19
Btl Soda 1.89
1 Ent Btl Drk Chip -.029
Total - $18.53
Excellent service, solid food, nice joint!
The place just opened in the corner of a strip mall....I was impressed when the owner opened the door fand welcomed us....
They had a good crowd when we arrived just before noon, very friendly employees who were pleasant and efficient. Place was spotless (it should be since it just opened), we ate quickly and hit the road....
Great spot!
Rg Brbn Chickn 5.99
Btl Soda 1.89
Rg Mesquite 6.49
Chips 1.19
Btl Soda 1.89
1 Ent Btl Drk Chip -.029
Total - $18.53
Delta SUCKS, Chicago IL - June 15
Rating - .000001
Delta is HORRIBLE...and I will NEVER fly them again....the gate for the 7 am flight to Atlanta was a mob scene with only one agent to take all those who approached the desk (no you don't need to check in AGAIN when you HAVE to get a boarding pass BEFORE going though security) and board the flight.
It reminds me of Southwest - ONLY WORSE.
Not only was the boarding process painful at the gate, it was worse once we got on the plane...flight attendants constantly YELLING over the intercom to take seats/stow bags.
And once we landed, we were in the last gate they had, and the ATL airport blows.
I only did it to save $200, but next time I would rather hitch hike!
Delta is HORRIBLE...and I will NEVER fly them again....the gate for the 7 am flight to Atlanta was a mob scene with only one agent to take all those who approached the desk (no you don't need to check in AGAIN when you HAVE to get a boarding pass BEFORE going though security) and board the flight.
It reminds me of Southwest - ONLY WORSE.
Not only was the boarding process painful at the gate, it was worse once we got on the plane...flight attendants constantly YELLING over the intercom to take seats/stow bags.
And once we landed, we were in the last gate they had, and the ATL airport blows.
I only did it to save $200, but next time I would rather hitch hike!
Mike Ditka's, Chicago IL - June 14
Rating - 9.86
LOVE IT....this is a "go to' when looking for a spot to have beers/lunch/drinks on N Michigan Ave....
We headed over at noon on a rainy Monday for lunch and went strait to the bar.....sat right down and were served drinks.....ordered our lunches and they arrived promptly....
The memorabilia is excellent, and the place is warm and cozy......Ditka is actually in here a lot...and it is a Chicago spot.
I had the Fridge Burger and it was too much for me to finish...my buddy had the salad (WIMP)...and we got in/out in 40 minutes.......
Great lunch spot!!!
Total - $31.78
LOVE IT....this is a "go to' when looking for a spot to have beers/lunch/drinks on N Michigan Ave....
We headed over at noon on a rainy Monday for lunch and went strait to the bar.....sat right down and were served drinks.....ordered our lunches and they arrived promptly....
The memorabilia is excellent, and the place is warm and cozy......Ditka is actually in here a lot...and it is a Chicago spot.
I had the Fridge Burger and it was too much for me to finish...my buddy had the salad (WIMP)...and we got in/out in 40 minutes.......
Great lunch spot!!!
Total - $31.78
Fiora's, Geneva IL - June 12
Rating - 8.2
Why aren't there more people having dinner here?
That was the only question that has been running through my mind since we dined here with our Chef neighbors Saturday night around 8:30 pm......
Place is beautiful, well laid-out, with a really nice L shaped bar, and tables outside on the patio.....
We were promptly seated when we arrived and I was surprised because there were only 4 or 5 other tables seated. We had Liz as our waitress and she made great recommendations, is very cute, but was a bit slow with service (especially with the light crowd).
Did I say the place is beautiful....it really is spectacular.....
Food was really solid, not great, but solid. Menu has fewer choices then I would have imagined. I had the sharp cheddar plate first and it was EXCELLENT, then had the salmon for dinner and it was ok, kind of plain, but decent. My wife LOVED the Walleye special, and they all enjoyed the flat bread pizza as an app.
At desert time, my mind wandered to Grahm's located across the street, and the girls were kind enough to go across the street and buy some chocolate covered pretzels while we waited for the desserts they ordered......
A fun night, neat place, ok service (see the other reviews), and decent food.
We are going to return to have dinner or desert on the patio.....
4 Rouge Dead Guy 20.00 - my beers, pretty good
Simi Chardonnay 48.00
Artisan Pick 1 4.95 (My excellent cheese plate)
Flatbread Pizza 11.95
2 Salmon Filet 47.90
Walleye 22.95
Pan Seared Duckbreast 21.95
Berry Cobbler 7.00
Carrot Cake 7.00
3 G Hahn Meritage 30.00
Total - $238.33
Why aren't there more people having dinner here?
That was the only question that has been running through my mind since we dined here with our Chef neighbors Saturday night around 8:30 pm......
Place is beautiful, well laid-out, with a really nice L shaped bar, and tables outside on the patio.....
We were promptly seated when we arrived and I was surprised because there were only 4 or 5 other tables seated. We had Liz as our waitress and she made great recommendations, is very cute, but was a bit slow with service (especially with the light crowd).
Did I say the place is beautiful....it really is spectacular.....
Food was really solid, not great, but solid. Menu has fewer choices then I would have imagined. I had the sharp cheddar plate first and it was EXCELLENT, then had the salmon for dinner and it was ok, kind of plain, but decent. My wife LOVED the Walleye special, and they all enjoyed the flat bread pizza as an app.
At desert time, my mind wandered to Grahm's located across the street, and the girls were kind enough to go across the street and buy some chocolate covered pretzels while we waited for the desserts they ordered......
A fun night, neat place, ok service (see the other reviews), and decent food.
We are going to return to have dinner or desert on the patio.....
4 Rouge Dead Guy 20.00 - my beers, pretty good
Simi Chardonnay 48.00
Artisan Pick 1 4.95 (My excellent cheese plate)
Flatbread Pizza 11.95
2 Salmon Filet 47.90
Walleye 22.95
Pan Seared Duckbreast 21.95
Berry Cobbler 7.00
Carrot Cake 7.00
3 G Hahn Meritage 30.00
Total - $238.33
Chicago White Sox, Comiskey Park IL - June 8
Rating - BEST EVER
Not only are the Sox the best baseball Team EVER, the "new" Comiskey Park is not bad either....tonight was Hawk Harrelson Night and it was a horrible/rainy Tuesday night against the Tigers....we had "Club Seats" on the third base side...they are above the lower section (on the second level)....decent seats with waiter service (we had customers).......
Good deal for the price!
Total - $42.00/seat
Not only are the Sox the best baseball Team EVER, the "new" Comiskey Park is not bad either....tonight was Hawk Harrelson Night and it was a horrible/rainy Tuesday night against the Tigers....we had "Club Seats" on the third base side...they are above the lower section (on the second level)....decent seats with waiter service (we had customers).......
Good deal for the price!
Total - $42.00/seat
Kroll's South Loop, Chicao IL - June 8
Rating - 9.99999
Great spot to have a beer and some apps before a Sox game...or because of the proximity to Soldiers Field before a Bear's game (cant imagine how crowded it would be)....
Great crowd in here at 6 pm on a Tuesday....excellent service from the bar tenders.....and the bar food is AWESOME and so is the Hackerschorr on tap.....oh, and I cant forget the Golden Tee that Mackey dominated on......
The tater tots with bacon and cheese are EXCELLENT when hot (soggy and horrible when not), chicken strips were ok, and cheese curds were great....
1 Chix strips 7.25
1 Curds 4.75
1 loaded tots
1 lite mug 4.50
2 Hackers 12.50
Total - $35.96
Great spot to have a beer and some apps before a Sox game...or because of the proximity to Soldiers Field before a Bear's game (cant imagine how crowded it would be)....
Great crowd in here at 6 pm on a Tuesday....excellent service from the bar tenders.....and the bar food is AWESOME and so is the Hackerschorr on tap.....oh, and I cant forget the Golden Tee that Mackey dominated on......
The tater tots with bacon and cheese are EXCELLENT when hot (soggy and horrible when not), chicken strips were ok, and cheese curds were great....
1 Chix strips 7.25
1 Curds 4.75
1 loaded tots
1 lite mug 4.50
2 Hackers 12.50
Total - $35.96
Rosebud Prime, Chicago IL - June 8
Rating - 9.999999
Excellent business lunch. Exceptional service from Scott and food that was just as good. My "go to" for lunches with customers......
I had my burger medium rare (perfect) and the ladies had the sushi (loved it). You have to get the Mac and Cheese to share....
2 Darj Tea 10.00
1 Arnold Palmer 4.95
2 Lunch Asian 53.90
1 Lunch Chz Burger 12.95
1 Mac/cheese 7.25
Total - $99.29
Excellent business lunch. Exceptional service from Scott and food that was just as good. My "go to" for lunches with customers......
I had my burger medium rare (perfect) and the ladies had the sushi (loved it). You have to get the Mac and Cheese to share....
2 Darj Tea 10.00
1 Arnold Palmer 4.95
2 Lunch Asian 53.90
1 Lunch Chz Burger 12.95
1 Mac/cheese 7.25
Total - $99.29
Illinois Railway Meseum, Union IL - June 4
Rating - 8.1
Excellent place to take a little boy who loves TRAINS....little guy is 5 years old....and he LOVED it.
We got lucky with mild weather, I cant imagine being here either in the heat of summer, or the cold of winter. The trains are all in enclosed sheds ("barns") and you have to walk between them (with no a/c in them), its all outside and there is nowhere to hide from the sun/rain/wind.
The place itself is great, but 1/2 of a day is more than enough. There are several trains in each "barns", but most are NOT OPEN....so you can only walk along side them....pretty boring...even for the 5 year old....the ones you can go on are awesome - like being transported back 40 years or more.
We LOVED the train ride there....there is an old depot (that the little guy LOVED)...and an old train that goes on a 45 minute ride......fun, fun, fun.
We were there on a Friday before school was out, and it was pretty empty. But I can imagine being there on the weekend, or when its busy, because there is not that much to see/do.
You HAVE TO GO if any of your kids love trains.........
Excellent place to take a little boy who loves TRAINS....little guy is 5 years old....and he LOVED it.
We got lucky with mild weather, I cant imagine being here either in the heat of summer, or the cold of winter. The trains are all in enclosed sheds ("barns") and you have to walk between them (with no a/c in them), its all outside and there is nowhere to hide from the sun/rain/wind.
The place itself is great, but 1/2 of a day is more than enough. There are several trains in each "barns", but most are NOT OPEN....so you can only walk along side them....pretty boring...even for the 5 year old....the ones you can go on are awesome - like being transported back 40 years or more.
We LOVED the train ride there....there is an old depot (that the little guy LOVED)...and an old train that goes on a 45 minute ride......fun, fun, fun.
We were there on a Friday before school was out, and it was pretty empty. But I can imagine being there on the weekend, or when its busy, because there is not that much to see/do.
You HAVE TO GO if any of your kids love trains.........
Pittsfield Cafe, Chicago IL - June 3
Rating - 9.994
Exceptional breakfast...took 7 others here on a Thursday morning at 8 am....and we sat in the lobby of the beautiful old building (55 E Washington).....I had the skillet (awesome) AND the biscuits and gravy (BETTER - if possible)....
Everyone was full and happy and it was a GREAT place to hold a MEETING....only downside is its CASH ONLY.
Total - $84.42 **including tip for 8 people
Exceptional breakfast...took 7 others here on a Thursday morning at 8 am....and we sat in the lobby of the beautiful old building (55 E Washington).....I had the skillet (awesome) AND the biscuits and gravy (BETTER - if possible)....
Everyone was full and happy and it was a GREAT place to hold a MEETING....only downside is its CASH ONLY.
Total - $84.42 **including tip for 8 people
Aurora Memorial Day Parade, Aurora IL - May 31
Rating - 10.00
Kids love it!!
Excellent parade, even if a HUGE STORM came through about 1 hour before the parade was to begin. Kendall's gymnastics group did not march due to the slippery streets, but almost everyone else did.....everything from veterans to politicians and everything in between - bands to dancers.
Good crowd and great fun!
Come next year.....
Total - FREE
Kids love it!!
Excellent parade, even if a HUGE STORM came through about 1 hour before the parade was to begin. Kendall's gymnastics group did not march due to the slippery streets, but almost everyone else did.....everything from veterans to politicians and everything in between - bands to dancers.
Good crowd and great fun!
Come next year.....
Total - FREE
Cosi #629 Terminal 3 BOS, Boston MA - May 28
Rating - 6.2
Located in the food court of AA terminal....decent service...and decent food...not great, but decent.
Sand, Cosi 3
Roasted Turkey 7.79
Bacon
Cheddar
Gatorade 2.19
Total - $10.68
Located in the food court of AA terminal....decent service...and decent food...not great, but decent.
Sand, Cosi 3
Roasted Turkey 7.79
Bacon
Cheddar
Gatorade 2.19
Total - $10.68
National Car Renatl, Boston MA - May 28
Rating - 10.00
Excellent experience.....got off the bus....greeted by friendly employee...picked out my car....low miles and CLEAN (too bad Hertz -http://talesfromtheroad-mwalno.blogspot.com/2010/06/hertz-sucks-may-18.html )...and drove off the lot.
Excellent experience!
Rental - 60.50/day (2 days)
Total - $169.16
Excellent experience.....got off the bus....greeted by friendly employee...picked out my car....low miles and CLEAN (too bad Hertz -http://talesfromtheroad-mwalno.blogspot.com/2010/06/hertz-sucks-may-18.html )...and drove off the lot.
Excellent experience!
Rental - 60.50/day (2 days)
Total - $169.16
Ocean View Tavern, Oak Bluffs MA - May 27
Rating - 11.0+++++++++
AWESOME bar, and the BEST PIZZA I have had in maybe forever......we ate 3 entire pies between 4 guys...and loved every bite!
And the beers and company were great also.....super place to watch a game, enjoy the friendly locals, and enjoy the excellent food.
Thank you Bill!
Cheese Pizza 11.99
Cheese Pizza Sausage (2 @ 13.24) 26.48
Smith/Pint (3 @ 4) 12.00
Drink (3 @ 5) 15.00
Total - $69.22
AWESOME bar, and the BEST PIZZA I have had in maybe forever......we ate 3 entire pies between 4 guys...and loved every bite!
And the beers and company were great also.....super place to watch a game, enjoy the friendly locals, and enjoy the excellent food.
Thank you Bill!
Cheese Pizza 11.99
Cheese Pizza Sausage (2 @ 13.24) 26.48
Smith/Pint (3 @ 4) 12.00
Drink (3 @ 5) 15.00
Total - $69.22
Farm Neck Golf Club, Oak Bluffs MA - May 27
Rating - 11.00
Perfect, absolutely PERFECT. Exceptional golf course, perfectly maintained, challenging but fair, and BEAUTIFUL. Many holes on the ocean or with views of it........such a beautiful place.....home of "Slick Willy" when he visits the island.....
We played the Blue Tees (lots of old guys with us) and it is only 6,301 yards, 70.5/133, but it played like a million....after a 91 it felt like I shot par!
Great pro shop and excellent restaurant/bar as the 19th hole.
Awesome day!
Total - $77.00 (Midweek prior to Memorial Day)
Perfect, absolutely PERFECT. Exceptional golf course, perfectly maintained, challenging but fair, and BEAUTIFUL. Many holes on the ocean or with views of it........such a beautiful place.....home of "Slick Willy" when he visits the island.....
We played the Blue Tees (lots of old guys with us) and it is only 6,301 yards, 70.5/133, but it played like a million....after a 91 it felt like I shot par!
Great pro shop and excellent restaurant/bar as the 19th hole.
Awesome day!
Total - $77.00 (Midweek prior to Memorial Day)
The Steamship Authority, Woods Hole MA - May 27
Rating - 11.0
This is a GREAT experience....parked at a garage right by the ship ($40 for overnight)...and carried our clubs to the ferry.....headed up to the top deck....could get coffee or a breakfast sandwich (or a beer on the way home) and headed out on the deck located outside (on the front - bow? - of the boat)....and enjoyed the EXCEPTIONAL SCENERY....wow is it beautiful!!!!!!
Its only 45 minutes and the time passes quickly.
Total - $15.00 (round trip!)
This is a GREAT experience....parked at a garage right by the ship ($40 for overnight)...and carried our clubs to the ferry.....headed up to the top deck....could get coffee or a breakfast sandwich (or a beer on the way home) and headed out on the deck located outside (on the front - bow? - of the boat)....and enjoyed the EXCEPTIONAL SCENERY....wow is it beautiful!!!!!!
Its only 45 minutes and the time passes quickly.
Total - $15.00 (round trip!)
Hilton Garden Inn, Plymouth MA - May 26
Rating - 10.0
Arrived late (around 11 pm) but we received a very friendly welcome...in fact Clayton was the "Guest of the Day"....and that got him nothing.....
Clean, quiet, great beds, decent bathrooms. I was in room 502.
AWESOME breakfast buffet in the morning....its actually worth staying there just for that!!!!
Guest Room 107.00
State Tax 6.10
Local Tax 6.42
Total - $119.52
Arrived late (around 11 pm) but we received a very friendly welcome...in fact Clayton was the "Guest of the Day"....and that got him nothing.....
Clean, quiet, great beds, decent bathrooms. I was in room 502.
AWESOME breakfast buffet in the morning....its actually worth staying there just for that!!!!
Guest Room 107.00
State Tax 6.10
Local Tax 6.42
Total - $119.52
Uncle Brady's and Aunt Mary's House, Middleboro MA - May 26
Rating - 10.0++++
Aunt Mary made a mean bar-b-q beef......and Uncle Brady had plenty of cold/cold beer....and the ping pong table with Bella was excellent!
Total - FREE
Aunt Mary made a mean bar-b-q beef......and Uncle Brady had plenty of cold/cold beer....and the ping pong table with Bella was excellent!
Total - FREE
Poquoy Brook Golf Course, Lakville MA - May 26
Rating - 6.4
Excellent test of golf.....fair, but tough and FUN.....except for the BUGS....everyone I spoke to about the course had something to say about the BUGS.....I didn't wear a hat or visor and they didn't bother me too much...but my partner had a visor and they were ALL OVER him.....it was comical to watch.....
The one thing that REALLY BOTHERED me was the PACE OF PLAY....we flew through the first 5 holes and then ran into a foursome....we were right on them and they never let play through. I had enough at the turn when we reached the tee after they were in the 1/2 way house and they still would NOT let us through (even after I axed). So we walked in to get a beer and I went into the the pro shop to let them know...the young kid said he would send the ranger out. So we hit our tee shots, and the ranger approached when we were on the green, he asked if we were the ones who "complained" and said he would talk to the group in front....he did and came back to say they were playing just fine.....EXCEPT there were two holes open in front of them......I have never had a ranger who was like that.....
So, great course (great value), shi**y rangers, and lots of bugs....I would try somewhere else next time.
Total - 2 green fees (walking) - $64.00
Excellent test of golf.....fair, but tough and FUN.....except for the BUGS....everyone I spoke to about the course had something to say about the BUGS.....I didn't wear a hat or visor and they didn't bother me too much...but my partner had a visor and they were ALL OVER him.....it was comical to watch.....
The one thing that REALLY BOTHERED me was the PACE OF PLAY....we flew through the first 5 holes and then ran into a foursome....we were right on them and they never let play through. I had enough at the turn when we reached the tee after they were in the 1/2 way house and they still would NOT let us through (even after I axed). So we walked in to get a beer and I went into the the pro shop to let them know...the young kid said he would send the ranger out. So we hit our tee shots, and the ranger approached when we were on the green, he asked if we were the ones who "complained" and said he would talk to the group in front....he did and came back to say they were playing just fine.....EXCEPT there were two holes open in front of them......I have never had a ranger who was like that.....
So, great course (great value), shi**y rangers, and lots of bugs....I would try somewhere else next time.
Total - 2 green fees (walking) - $64.00
Rosebud Prime, Chicago IL - May 25
Rating - 9.9
Sat out on the deck with a customer...you have to be careful because if you are in the sun (I was) it gets VERY HOT....but it was still very pleasant.........and the customer loved it.
I went back to my favorite (cheeseburger) and had it medium...it was way to well done for me.....but did I say I LOVE the FRIES....and we had the mac and cheese for the table and everyone loved it.....
Decent service.....good spot for biz lunch.
1 Arnold Palmer 4.95
1 coke 3.00
1 Chz Burger Bacon 14.95
1 Steak Salad $Blue Cheese 18.45
1 Chz Burger Bacon 14.95
1 Mac/cheese 7.25
Total - $70.86
Sat out on the deck with a customer...you have to be careful because if you are in the sun (I was) it gets VERY HOT....but it was still very pleasant.........and the customer loved it.
I went back to my favorite (cheeseburger) and had it medium...it was way to well done for me.....but did I say I LOVE the FRIES....and we had the mac and cheese for the table and everyone loved it.....
Decent service.....good spot for biz lunch.
1 Arnold Palmer 4.95
1 coke 3.00
1 Chz Burger Bacon 14.95
1 Steak Salad $Blue Cheese 18.45
1 Chz Burger Bacon 14.95
1 Mac/cheese 7.25
Total - $70.86
Rosebud Prime, Chicago IL - May 21
Rating - 9.79
Excellent business lunch (again)......arrived at 11:30 and had the place to ourselves...by noon it was packed on this Friday.
Tried a new special today....the chicken sandwich special (cordon bleu)...it was GREAT.....LOVE the FRIES.....
Excellent service from Eric R.
1 Arnold Palmer
2 Chx Sand Special 29.90
Total - $38.86
Excellent business lunch (again)......arrived at 11:30 and had the place to ourselves...by noon it was packed on this Friday.
Tried a new special today....the chicken sandwich special (cordon bleu)...it was GREAT.....LOVE the FRIES.....
Excellent service from Eric R.
1 Arnold Palmer
2 Chx Sand Special 29.90
Total - $38.86
GAB Bakery - Terminal 3 ORD, Chicago IL - May 20
Rating - 9.2
Love this spot for a bite to eat after a later arrival.....quick service, decent chow....
1 Water Vasa 25 oz 2.69
1 Turkey Sand 6.79
Total - $10.57
Love this spot for a bite to eat after a later arrival.....quick service, decent chow....
1 Water Vasa 25 oz 2.69
1 Turkey Sand 6.79
Total - $10.57
Chambers Bay 19th Hole, University Place WA - May 19
Rating - 8.4
So we had a beer(s) after we finished our round....interesting little spot....has a "local feel" to it....there was a family having dinner here when we finished.....
Great service from Brian M at the bar....everyone who worked there was VERY HAPPY because they get to play all the golf they want.....I would be too......
Good beer and service.
1 Chambers Bay Scottish Ale 5.25
2 Hefe 5.25
Total - $ 17.21
So we had a beer(s) after we finished our round....interesting little spot....has a "local feel" to it....there was a family having dinner here when we finished.....
Great service from Brian M at the bar....everyone who worked there was VERY HAPPY because they get to play all the golf they want.....I would be too......
Good beer and service.
1 Chambers Bay Scottish Ale 5.25
2 Hefe 5.25
Total - $ 17.21
Jun 17, 2010
Chambers Bay, West University Place WA - May 19
Rating - 10.00+++
Exceptional, beautiful, awesome test of golfing skills, a MUST PLAY.
Wow, not really sure I can put in words how much I enjoyed the experience of playing here, but I will try.....
Located a pretty good ride from Seattle (I would guess an hour) we booked the tee time online to get the twilight rate ($84.76).....drove down in a pounding rain storm and as we got closer to the course it did not seem like anything special...in fact when we arrived in the parking lot I was surprised because the club house and pro shop are small.
Nice kid pulled our bags from the trunk, we quickly found a parking spot and wandered in. As we arrived at the registered there a was a group who was making the turn asking for refund because they did not want to continue to play in the weather (the pro shop granted the request).....I was excited to pay in the "real conditions". I paid, bought a $45 umbrella, and we got in the shuttle bus to hit the range. Only hick-up was I had called the day before for a caddie, and they didn't have my request....but told me it would be no problem to get one.
As we rode down the natural beauty (even in the rain) is hard to imagine. I believe it is built in a former quarry, and it is right on the Sound with only 1 tree on the course. When we got down to the bottom there is a small 1/2 way house and a huge range next to it. We met the caddie master and he got a caddy while we headed over to hit balls in a pouring rain. There was NO ONE on the range, and only saw one other group on the course.....that was so awesome!!!
Hit some balls and headed to the first tee. The course is spectacular, so incredibly beautiful, and so incredibly hard....but the beauty makes it a great day - even in the monsoon we played in. Caddie was great, a really good guy was a PGA pro who had been laid off from a country club in Seattle. He said play had been really slow, and on most days he never even got out....hard to believe since the US Amatuer is being played there this summer!
Anyway, course is spectacular and HARD. Greens are a bit rough in spots (you can tell its new), but I LOVED IT.
One of the neatest things I have ever seen is the scorecard.....it is water proof, but you can write on it with a pencil!!!!!
We played the Sand Tees, 72.2/129, 6420 yards, I shot 95 and felt like I had slayed the dragon.
I guess they are going to build a hotel on site, and with the Amatuer being played there I imagine it will get real crowded, SO PLAY IT NOW! It is worth a lot more than $84 to play.....
Total - $84.76 + $50 for caddie = A STEAL
Exceptional, beautiful, awesome test of golfing skills, a MUST PLAY.
Wow, not really sure I can put in words how much I enjoyed the experience of playing here, but I will try.....
Located a pretty good ride from Seattle (I would guess an hour) we booked the tee time online to get the twilight rate ($84.76).....drove down in a pounding rain storm and as we got closer to the course it did not seem like anything special...in fact when we arrived in the parking lot I was surprised because the club house and pro shop are small.
Nice kid pulled our bags from the trunk, we quickly found a parking spot and wandered in. As we arrived at the registered there a was a group who was making the turn asking for refund because they did not want to continue to play in the weather (the pro shop granted the request).....I was excited to pay in the "real conditions". I paid, bought a $45 umbrella, and we got in the shuttle bus to hit the range. Only hick-up was I had called the day before for a caddie, and they didn't have my request....but told me it would be no problem to get one.
As we rode down the natural beauty (even in the rain) is hard to imagine. I believe it is built in a former quarry, and it is right on the Sound with only 1 tree on the course. When we got down to the bottom there is a small 1/2 way house and a huge range next to it. We met the caddie master and he got a caddy while we headed over to hit balls in a pouring rain. There was NO ONE on the range, and only saw one other group on the course.....that was so awesome!!!
Hit some balls and headed to the first tee. The course is spectacular, so incredibly beautiful, and so incredibly hard....but the beauty makes it a great day - even in the monsoon we played in. Caddie was great, a really good guy was a PGA pro who had been laid off from a country club in Seattle. He said play had been really slow, and on most days he never even got out....hard to believe since the US Amatuer is being played there this summer!
Anyway, course is spectacular and HARD. Greens are a bit rough in spots (you can tell its new), but I LOVED IT.
One of the neatest things I have ever seen is the scorecard.....it is water proof, but you can write on it with a pencil!!!!!
We played the Sand Tees, 72.2/129, 6420 yards, I shot 95 and felt like I had slayed the dragon.
I guess they are going to build a hotel on site, and with the Amatuer being played there I imagine it will get real crowded, SO PLAY IT NOW! It is worth a lot more than $84 to play.....
Total - $84.76 + $50 for caddie = A STEAL
Urbane, Seattle WA - May 20
Rating - 9.9
Excellent breakfast spot!
Pretty crowded when I arrived around 8 am, I received great service from Amy.
The French Toast is absolutely FABULOUS - and I was stuffed after I finished.....the bacon was great (but how could it not be?).
Friendly, fast, efficient.
Yum!
1 French Toast 11.75
1 Bacon 4.00
1 Hot Tea 4.50
1 Juice 4.00
1 Coffee 3.50*** (I don't drink coffee)
Total - $30.53** **this would be an expensive breakfast for 1, but it is FREE for diamond members
Excellent breakfast spot!
Pretty crowded when I arrived around 8 am, I received great service from Amy.
The French Toast is absolutely FABULOUS - and I was stuffed after I finished.....the bacon was great (but how could it not be?).
Friendly, fast, efficient.
Yum!
1 French Toast 11.75
1 Bacon 4.00
1 Hot Tea 4.50
1 Juice 4.00
1 Coffee 3.50*** (I don't drink coffee)
Total - $30.53** **this would be an expensive breakfast for 1, but it is FREE for diamond members
Hyatt at Olive 8, Seattle WA - May 18
Rating - 9.884
What GREAT service. I arrived before noon, and Stephen Bremish was at the front counter and said "I love taking care of Diamond Members"....best greeting I have EVER received!!!! The Portland Hyatt Place - http://talesfromtheroad-mwalno.blogspot.com/2010/04/hyatt-place-portland-or-april-21.html - could learn a lot from the level of service provided here.
My room was not ready, but I did not really care, and when I returned that evening it was. The room set-up is kind of strange, I am not much "into" the modern look and feel in properties....but they have a great bed and the room is QUIET. It is not great to work in, and the Internet connection is just ok.
The guys who park the car are very nice, efficient (car is there when you ask), and good with directions.
The restaurant, Urbane, is great for breakfast!
Service is exceptional, and I would stay here again for sure!
Package (room) 179.55
Valet Parking 33.00
Tax 33.52
Total - $491.82 (2 nights)
What GREAT service. I arrived before noon, and Stephen Bremish was at the front counter and said "I love taking care of Diamond Members"....best greeting I have EVER received!!!! The Portland Hyatt Place - http://talesfromtheroad-mwalno.blogspot.com/2010/04/hyatt-place-portland-or-april-21.html - could learn a lot from the level of service provided here.
My room was not ready, but I did not really care, and when I returned that evening it was. The room set-up is kind of strange, I am not much "into" the modern look and feel in properties....but they have a great bed and the room is QUIET. It is not great to work in, and the Internet connection is just ok.
The guys who park the car are very nice, efficient (car is there when you ask), and good with directions.
The restaurant, Urbane, is great for breakfast!
Service is exceptional, and I would stay here again for sure!
Package (room) 179.55
Valet Parking 33.00
Tax 33.52
Total - $491.82 (2 nights)
Cold Stone Creamery, Redmond WA - May 18
Rating - 2.1
Ice cream is just ok.....I am not a big fan of choosing different things to put in a cone (Reese's, gummy bears) and it was my first time ever in one....I would not return.
I just wanted a mint chocolate chip cone, and I was not impressed by starting with mint ice cream, putting it on a slab and adding chocolate chips, and making a production out of rolling it on around before putting it on a cone.....
The girls who worked behind the counter were very nice and friendly....and worked hard.
But I was not impressed with the experience.
Ice cream is just ok.....I am not a big fan of choosing different things to put in a cone (Reese's, gummy bears) and it was my first time ever in one....I would not return.
I just wanted a mint chocolate chip cone, and I was not impressed by starting with mint ice cream, putting it on a slab and adding chocolate chips, and making a production out of rolling it on around before putting it on a cone.....
The girls who worked behind the counter were very nice and friendly....and worked hard.
But I was not impressed with the experience.
Spazzo Italian Grill, Redmond WA - May 18
Rating - 9.89
Excellent spot for family friendly dinner!
We arrived around 5:30 without a reservation, and sat in the bar to have a beer and wait for the rest of the party to arrive (Steph + Cloe). We were promptly seated and the place was only about 10% full....
Excellent Service from Jacob S, food was EXCELLENT, and atmosphere is really nice. We had the mozzarella first and it was excellent - crunchy breading and warm cheese inside, and then I had the penne pasta and it was great, excellent noodles and sauce was perfect. Very enjoyable and KID FRIENDLY - Cloe is only 1 1/2 years old.
2 Lemonade 5.90
1 Fried Mozz 8.00
3 HH Widmere 12.00
3 Widmer Hefeweizen Pint 14.85 (AWESOME BEER)
1 D-Mista 7.00
1 Plate 5.00
1 Flank Steak 24.00
1 Spinach 6.00
1 D-Penne 20.00
1 D-Spaghetti 18.00
1 Kid Milk 0.00
Total - $113.03
Excellent spot for family friendly dinner!
We arrived around 5:30 without a reservation, and sat in the bar to have a beer and wait for the rest of the party to arrive (Steph + Cloe). We were promptly seated and the place was only about 10% full....
Excellent Service from Jacob S, food was EXCELLENT, and atmosphere is really nice. We had the mozzarella first and it was excellent - crunchy breading and warm cheese inside, and then I had the penne pasta and it was great, excellent noodles and sauce was perfect. Very enjoyable and KID FRIENDLY - Cloe is only 1 1/2 years old.
2 Lemonade 5.90
1 Fried Mozz 8.00
3 HH Widmere 12.00
3 Widmer Hefeweizen Pint 14.85 (AWESOME BEER)
1 D-Mista 7.00
1 Plate 5.00
1 Flank Steak 24.00
1 Spinach 6.00
1 D-Penne 20.00
1 D-Spaghetti 18.00
1 Kid Milk 0.00
Total - $113.03
Bear Creek Country Club, Woodinville WA - May 18
Rating - 9.825
This is a tough track.....much tougher than the Par 72, 6422, 72.6/133 rating from the blue tees.....
Great place to play. Excellent range with some covered spots to hit from (it IS Seattle) and then tough/pretty layout. I was very surprised at how long it played for 6422 yards.....plays more like 7,000.....it would be a tough walk due to elevation changes, so we wimped out and rode (it rained on/off all day long)....but I was still beat at the end of the day.
Guys in pro shop and restaurant/bar were great, very friendly, and helpful......
I played horrible but really enjoyed my day.
Play here!
Total - $$FREE$$ - bro-in-law paid
This is a tough track.....much tougher than the Par 72, 6422, 72.6/133 rating from the blue tees.....
Great place to play. Excellent range with some covered spots to hit from (it IS Seattle) and then tough/pretty layout. I was very surprised at how long it played for 6422 yards.....plays more like 7,000.....it would be a tough walk due to elevation changes, so we wimped out and rode (it rained on/off all day long)....but I was still beat at the end of the day.
Guys in pro shop and restaurant/bar were great, very friendly, and helpful......
I played horrible but really enjoyed my day.
Play here!
Total - $$FREE$$ - bro-in-law paid
National Car Rental, Seattle WA - May 18
Rating - 10.00
This was my first experience with them and I LOVED IT......I got their "Executive Level" through our travel company and when I got off the bus I was directed by a VERY friendly employee to the executive section...and then got to choose any car in that section..
What a GREAT CONCEPT. I love it!!! Pick whatever car you want, drive to the exit booth and show your license and on your way......
Nice cars, in great condition, with low mileage.....
2 day rental at $55.50/day
Customer Facility charge 10.00
Concession Recovery fee 12.39
Rental Car tax 11.97
Sales tax 11.72
Total - $157.83 - WAY TOO MUCH TAX
This was my first experience with them and I LOVED IT......I got their "Executive Level" through our travel company and when I got off the bus I was directed by a VERY friendly employee to the executive section...and then got to choose any car in that section..
What a GREAT CONCEPT. I love it!!! Pick whatever car you want, drive to the exit booth and show your license and on your way......
Nice cars, in great condition, with low mileage.....
2 day rental at $55.50/day
Customer Facility charge 10.00
Concession Recovery fee 12.39
Rental Car tax 11.97
Sales tax 11.72
Total - $157.83 - WAY TOO MUCH TAX
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