The View Restaurant: 360 degrees of AMAZING!

Dessert Buffet

Elevator to the 48th Floor

View

View

View

Mango Muay Thai

Pina Colada

Chocolate Mousse w 24k gold edible leaf

Located on the 48th floor inside the Marriott Marquis hotel in the heart of Times Square New York, The View lounge and restaurant boasts the best panoramic view of the city with the entire restaurant rotating 360 degrees in the skyline.
Riding inside a glass elevator all the way to the 48th floor it takes a second before one can get use to looking out as the lift climbs floor after floor. The ambiance of the restaurant is fairly casual and with a touch of understated elegance, but the views catapult it to AMAZING!
Food-wise its centered on a light tappas like buffet, but definitely hearty. The dessert buffet on the other hand was out of this world. From the chocolate fountain, to the rich cheesecakes and choco mousse, and the delectable cookies- all to die for!
I was surprised to find out that one doesn't really need a reservation, but be warned that the restaurant fills quickly, and its best to arrive right before the 5pm opening.

Ruby Tuesday: Seafood Galore!!

I can't get enough of this platter from Ruby Tuesday, it fulfills every craving I have about seafood! Okay it's not a secret that I love, LOVE, did I mention LOVE seafood, and of course I have been to more grand restaurants in search of a seafood fix, but I have to admit that Ruby Tuesday hits the mark. I'm not sure whether it's the seasoned lobster tail with the oh so yummy butter, or the delicious crab cake, but for the past 5 times I have been back to a Ruby Tuesday- I have not changed my selection! Again, there are countless Ruby Tuesday locations throughout the United States, but did you know they have several locals international? Chile, Egypt, Kuwait, Canada, and Saudi Arabia all host a Ruby Tuesday location.
I am now actually lobbying for friends and family to take me to Ruby Tuesday so I can get another order!!!

Fogo De Chao: Philadelphia!

        
                                      http://www.fogodechao.com/index.php?id=163

Beef Ancho

Filet Mignon

Fraldinha

Last August 2011 during my cousin's wedding in Houston, Texas I got a chance to dine at Fogo De Chao (pronounced Foo Go du Shon), and fell in love with the ambiance and simply amazing Brazilian style meat: from pork, beef, chicken, lamb, and even fish!
In the Houston location, as you walk in you are greeted by the sight of grade A beef on a rotisterie in a clear oven. As one walks towards the main dining area, one passes the massive salad bar filled with everything from seafood like salted smoked salmon all the way to aged cheese! My personal favorite is the fire roasted tomato and peppers with fresh mozzarella and of course the salmon.
Lately, during my little cousin's birthday we drove to Philadelphia, the closest locale to us on the east coast and ate at Fogo De Chao. This particular Fogo De Chao is located in the heart of Philly only blocks away from the Liberty Bell on 1337 Chestnut Street. The ambiance reflects that of Roman architecture; I am assuming it may have been a former meeting hall or political building- just breathtaking with 30 foot ceilings!
For first time go-ers what's interesting about the restaurant is that on the table you will notice a circular cardboard with both a red side and a green side. Waiters dressed in old world Spanish/Portuguese Queen's soldier uniforms go around bearing savory meats of all varities, if one would like to sample what each waiter has all one must do is turn over the tab unto the green side- and like clock works each waiter will slice one a piece, and when you've had enough simple turn it over to red to let the waiters know to stop.
Fogo De Chao is a bit pricey for everyday dining out, but trust me when I say it is worth every penny! Besides the food, Fogo De Chao, also boasts a spectacular wine and champagne list as well as top shelf mix drinks- do plan ahead and make reservations because they are always busy and always at capacity specially during the weekends and evenings.

Red Lobster: Oysters on Ice!



Raw Oysters

One indulgence I love in the seafood world are oysters- raw and fresh! I must admit that it is definitely an acquired taste and not many people love its taste, texture, nor scent. One doesn't have to look far or spend a riduculous amount of money at some exclusive club or eatery- Red Lobster is right around the corner in most neighborhoods, and they have a wonderful plate of fresh oysters. I for one cannot wait until the next time I partake in another wonderful meal and some great oysters.

Watermark: Fire, Air, Water!

Using the elements Fire, Air, and Water as inspiration for its design, Watermark's owner Russell Lewis, ingeniously creates 3 distinct atmospheres where patrons can lounge and enjoy skillfully blended beverages.
As one enters Watermark; directly on the left is the outdoor deck area (opened during the summer season) where the concept of AIR comes to play as one may lounge in this open area and enjoy the ocean breeze. In the center, massive window panes frame the ocean stretching far into the horizon; a wonderful delight to experience WATER. During the cold winter months, Watermark offers a warm escape from the weather as the third section has a toasty fireplace where one can drink either an amazing Raspberry Caparinha, Bahama Bay Breeze, or a Watermark Lemonade (some of my personal favorites) all the while sitting by the FIRE.
As summer is fast approaching I look forward to lazy nights just lounging at Watermark's deck area overlooking the ocean above Asbury Park's famed boardwalk. I do anticipate another season of new summer drinks and revisiting some old favorites. Aside from the beauty and class of Watermark, it holds a special place in my heart; I have celebrated several birthdays, met some amazing people, and shared countless laughters with friends!!!!

Cubacan: 'Modern Cuban Cuisine with Latin Ambiance'

Serving a delightful take on modern Cuban cuisine within a sultry Latin ambiance, Cubacan, proves to be another jewel in the heart of Asbury Park's revitalization. After discovering this amazing place, located on the Asbury Park boardwalk, I have not been able to stop going. Finding every reason in the book from 'happy hour' to birthdays, and even just to bring a friend who haven't been to Cubacan- I find myself drawn to this place and its pallette satisfying cuisine.
My first visit to Cubacan began with a wonderful Guava Mojito drink and a trio ceviche of salmon, tuna, and baby shrimp with fried banana chips. Then, followed with its delightful salmon dinner served with white rice topped with black beans and platanos- DIVINE! The best is yet served in the end with a tantalizing serving of Tres Leches in a creamy sauce with strawberry hearts and a sprinkle of powdered sugar. Simply put, it was love on a plate!!! On subsequent visits I sampled other delights on the menu such as the corn with grated cheese, and the fried calamari, as well as the avocado and tomato salad, and beef finger sandwiches.
I certainly have 3 more pages of delights to taste and will share every bite with everyone. Cubacan is located on 800 Ocean Avenue, Asbury Park, NJ 07712. If your in the area lets grab a bite!!!

Seven Marias: Corpuz Pamilya Restaurant

After years of family dinners, holidays, and special occassions; sharing delicious food, laughter, and memories, the Corpuz family has finally opened a restaurant where they can share with everyone their love of food- where everyone can feel like family!
Inside Collingswood flea market you will find Seven Marias and the Corpuz Family busy serving customers, and often friends and family who come to visit and eat! At the helm you will find Fernando 'Ronnie' Corpuz Jr. and his wife Maria Christina Corpuz ( who is the inspiration for the restaurant's name with all her sisters, hence the name 'SEVEN MARIAS') prepping and preparing food; with Tito Ronnie at times working the grill and serving up treats like juicy cheese burgers, hotdogs, and barbeques served on top a plate of yellow rice and beans, to name a few. Seven Marias also serves a great breakfast menu, tuna sandwich combo, empanadas, gyros, and more selections to come. It is definitely a family atmosphere; comfortable- welcoming anyone who wants great food! But before leaving, make sure you say hello to Marcelino 'Archie' Corpuz and Fernando 'Richie' Corpuz (2 of the 3 sons currently working in the restaurant).

Cheeseburger w/ french fries

Barbeque w/ yellow rice and beans

Hotdogs

Left to Right: Richie, Ronnie, Archie, Christie, & Chrys Gerard (aka Kuya).