Gastronomy Blog by Cathy Chaplin

Restaurant Review

07 Oct 2019

Bill’s Burgers – Los Angeles (Van Nuys)

Filed Under:

Bill Elwell has been plugging away on the flattop grill since he bought this Van Nuys burger stand in 1965. Regulars from the early days know it as Bill’s Hamburgers, while newer fans refer to it as Bill and Hiroko’s. The latter addition is a nod to Hiroko Wilcox, Bill’s lovely wife who helps him run the place.

Grab a seat at the L-shaped counter to watch the master at work—the best spots are the two stools closest to the grill. Patio seating away from the meat and grease is also available for those who prefer some solitude with their lunch.

With hamburgers, sandwiches, and hotdogs on hand, the menu is extensive for a two-man show but not overly so. Most everyone orders a burger.

(more…)

Restaurant Review

23 Sep 2019

68 Hours in New Orleans: Laissez les bons temps rouler

Filed Under:

3 Comments

The Astronomer and I traveled to New Orleans together this past July. After dropping off June with her grandparents in Birmingham, we made the five-hour drive through Mississippi and spent 68 hours eating, drinking, and exploring the city. While we missed our little lady during our time apart, it was quite lovely to revel without worrying about nap times and such.

Since it was my first trip to New Orleans, I focused the itinerary mostly on the city’s incredible dining institutions. Folks have been eating well here since practically forever, so it was important on my inaugural visit to get a sense of the city’s rich culinary history. I can’t wait to explore newer establishments, especially the Vietnamese food scene, on another trip.

—

Central Grocery – French Quarter

We arrived in the late afternoon and stopped into Central Grocery in the French Quarter for one of its famous muffuletta sandwiches. I have had my share of mediocre Italian sandwiches, as well as expertly made ones, so I wasn’t quite sure what to expect. (more…)

Amusement Park Fare

13 Sep 2019

L.A. County Fair 2019: Bacon-Wrapped Pork Belly, Unicorn Elote, and more

Filed Under:

2 Comments

A sweaty day spent at the L.A. County Fair is one of my favorite summertime rituals (see previous shenanigans: here, here, here, and here). There’s something about cruising the expansive grounds, perusing blue ribbons, cheering on the pig races, and indulging in deep-fried delights that never ever gets old. This year, my best friend from college Liana traveled from Hawaii to check out the festivities along with The Astronomer, June, and me.

We started the day with a peaceful ride on the Ferris wheel. June was too short to ride it last year, but she met the height requirements this time around.

Following the ride, we got down to business. The truest gastronomic pleasure at the fair is found at Juicy’s. Crisp, golden, and measuring over a foot tall, the jumbo corndog never fails to turn a few heads and totally satisfy.

(more…)