Running a family restaurant is a stressful blessing. Running a chain of family restaurants is probably more than most people can handle. The Jauregui family has been able to not only be successful in the restaurant business, but they've been able to expand. With already two taco trucks and a restaurant in Modesto, they've opened a new restaurant just in time for the holidays. So with so many Mexican restaurants in the Modesto area, what has helped them stand out and expand? Taqueria El Maguey Century Center, Modesto, CA Months of hard work and dedication to opening this restaurant all culminated on one night. On the evening of November 17th, 2019 Taqueria El Maguey opened it's doors to a select few for a Private Soft Opening. And even though they have opened a restaurant before, there were still nerves in the air. But that good kind of nervous. It's the kind of nervousness you get when you're excited for what's about to happen. Almost like that feeling you get for your kindergarten graduation. All of your family and friends are there to celebrate you, and for one moment you feel like the center of the world's attention. And it's because you are. Upon entering the restaurant, every guest was greeted by the owners with a smile and a hug. A thankful welcome to their restaurant, as if you were walking into their home. The decor represents everything and more for the Hispanic community. You get the feelings and emotions that are given through traditional and cultural aspects of a classic Mexican restaurant. The bright and vibrant color scheme give you a sense of happiness, and uses the classic feel to give us a look into the future. Local interior designers and artists were brought in create an authentic look that was executed to perfection. But even with all of the beautiful colors, the eyes are drawn to a mural of Frida Kahlo. As she once protected the rights of others, she protects this beautiful restaurant and you. But I know why you're really here. You want to know about the food. Ok relax, I'm getting to that. We sat in the additional patio dining area on a cool November night. Once again, we were greeted with hugs and smiles from our servers who made us feel like family. They offer all of your favorite Mexican drinks. Jarritos, Aguas Frescas, and Micheladas. We went with a Jarrito and their homemade Horchata. Their menu is simple, yet gives you many options to be creative. You could get started with some nachos, ceviche, and even elote. Or you can just fill yourself up on their chips and salsa. The salsa has a very balanced flavor, and not too spicy. On the weekends, you will be able to order stews such as Birria and Menudo. Something not offered by many other Mexican restaurants on a weekly basis, usually reserved for the holidays or special occasions. You can even order your favorite traditional breakfast meals, such as Huevos a la Mexicana, Chilaquiles, Huevos con Chorizo, or a Breakfast Burrito. They also have family style meals that you can share. Their Molcajete comes with your choice of chicken, steak, or jumbo shrimp, served in their house sauce and melted Montery Jack cheese in a Lava Bowl. Or maybe you can't choose which meat you want. Luckily for you, you have the option to get all of them in one. You don't have to choose with the Fajitas either, which is exactly what we did. We ordered the All Meat Fajitas that comes sautéed with bell peppers, onions and tomatoes. Also served with rice, beans, guacamole, sour cream, Pico de Gallo, and tortillas. They came on a sizzling plate that could be heard from across the restaurant. Theres nothing like that sound and smell of Fajitas being brought to your table. The sight of it automatically made my mouth water. All of the flavors culminating on one hot and steaming plate. The chicken and steak were both tender and flavorful. But the shrimp tied the whole dish together. These huge shrimp were buttery, peppery, and left you wanting more. But maybe you just want something for yourself. They have all of your classic choices like the Wet Burrito, Taco Truck Tacos, Quesadillas, Tortas, Seafood, and Michoacan style Enchiladas. And they even have options for Vegetarians and Vegans! This is essential in this day and age, with many people having different dietary lifestyles. They have their Vegan Bowl and Tacos de Papa. And for all of you drink lovers, don't worry. They have a bar with a variety of wines and beer as well as a television for your viewing pleasure. It's tough to stand out in a community that already has many different Hispanic dining options. But Taqueria El Maguey sticks their cultural roots, and that ultimately gives them an edge over their competition. The family environment makes you feel welcome, and reminds you of Sunday mornings at Abuela's house. When everyone comes together to enjoy authentic food, laughs, and love. You may think of it as just another restaurant, but it's much deeper than that. This family has been serving the community traditional Mexican meals for over 30 years. But more importantly, they've created relationships with their community. And their new restaurant represents everything they stand for, and more.
0 Comments
Have you ever thought about how the Dairy industry is a part of one huge conspiracy? Like, who decided that milk was for some reason good for humans? And if milk is so good for us, why do they feel the need to pay politicians, athletes and celebrities millions of dollars to market their product? With something so “healthy” you’d think it would pay for itself. It’s become so engrained into who we are as Americans that it is damn near a necessity in every household. I could sit here and talk shit all day about the dairy industry. But at the end of the day, milk is just too damn good. The Milk Shop 7290 Beverly Blvd, Los Angeles, CA Hours: 12 pm - 10 pm, and 11 pm on Fridays and Saturdays Remember when you were a kid and you were playing outside with all the neighborhood kids, and no matter how loud you guys were you could hear the ice cream truck coming from 10 blocks away? That feeling of panic as you sprint into your house asking your mom for $2 so you can buy a Choco Taco. The sudden burst of energy you get when you mom actually says yes and gives you the money. You run back outside and you see the ice cream truck pull up. You flail your arms around and scream, as if they don’t see or hear you. Trust me, they heard you 10 blocks ago. You finally tell them what you want, you give them the money, and with whatever change you have you get a jawbreaker or chips or that powdered sugar that you eat off your fingers. You take that first bite into your ice cream on that hot summer day, and you feel nothing but pure bliss. This feeling is the same one you get, but as an adult, at The Milk Shop. As soon as you walk in, you are greeted with the smell of delicious fresh baked cookies. But not your typical everyday cookies, these desserts are unique. Their case of cookies leaves you questioning everything you thought you knew about cookies. With flavors such as Strawberry Lemonade, Fruity Cereal, Birthday Cake, and my favorite the Butterscotch Pretzel that comes with a crunchy pretzel baked in. They also have all of your classic favorites like White Chocolate Macadamia Nut, Snickerdoodle, and Ooey Gooey Double Chocolate. Let me tell you something about that Ooey Gooey Chocolate, it’s a chocolate lovers dream. It lives up to its name as it is filled with choclate chips and soft chocolate brownie pieces inside of a moist chocolate cookie. And I can’t speak highly enough about the Butterscotch Pretzel cookie. Hands down the best cookie in the shop, because of its balance of salty and sweet. It’s the kind of balance you wish you had in your love life. Now the main attraction, the ice cream. It’s all about the ingredients, and The Milk Shop uses only locally sourced and fresh ingredients. And as they say, happy cows come from California, but the cows in Los Angeles are lit af. How you consume your ice cream all depends on what you’re in the mood for. They have your legendary scoops in a bowl which allows you to enjoy the ice cream simply for what it is. You can get it in a sugar cone or waffle cone with original toppings or Fruity Pebbles. But maybe you’re feeling adventurous and want to get one of their ice cream sandwiches. You will not be disappointed. By design, most of their pre-made sandwiches are split down the middle with flavors to create a visual masterpiece. No matter how you decide you eat your ice cream, just know that your first bite will have you feeling nostalgic. Back when your only worry was whether or not mom was going to give you that cash for the ice cream truck. But this time, you get to choose from an array of flavors you couldn’t have even imagined. Unless you were stoned probably. Which is cool, too. Fruity Pebbles, Froot Loops, Coffee Toffee, Thai Tea, Green Tea Rose Swirl, BlueBerry Crumble,California Strawberry, or a creation of your own. They’ve got it all for the kid (or stoner) in you. (Listen to the song playing in the video. So relatable am I right?) Have you ever seen the Jazz scene in person? It’s a very interesting experience. It can probably only be found in big cities such as Los Angeles. The Mayfair Hotel, located just minutes away from Staples Center isn’t just a spot to sleep while on vacation. They are an unexpecting center of art. The entire hotel was covered in art pieces focused in on promoting the use of drugs for artists. It sounds like a worse concept than it actually is. On a random Tuesday night, the hotel lobby was packed with a gathering of people there to experience some Jazz music. A group of different Jazz musicians came together for somewhat of a freestyle on the stage. A true melting pot of people from everywhere from Northern California to Canada engaged in conversation. At this moment, one can realize that they’re experiencing something entirely new. A new sense of acceptance regardless of background, status or ethnicity. An experience hard to find anywhere outside of Los Angeles. The Breakfast Bar 70 Atlantic Ave., Long Beach, CA Hours: M-TH 6am-2pm F-SUN 6am-3pm Breakfast for breakfast? Duh. Alcohol for breakfast? Ultra duh. When on vacation, it’s usually pretty difficult to find the perfect restaurant when looking on Yelp. Especially if you’re something oddly specific. And if it’s 7 am and you’re craving scenery, waffles and vodka, The Breakfast Bar is that perfect spot. That combination makes this spot unique in its own right. And then mix in the fact that it’s in Long Beach located near the ocean and it makes all that much more beautiful. The choice of sitting inside or outside isn’t even really a choice at all. There’s really no quote to better start this off than with what Tupac once said. No doubt, to live and die in LA There's no better way to start your day in Long Beach than with some alcohol in your system to get your blood flowing. Their signature lemonades are vodka based cocktails with homemade syrups and fresh lemon juice. The Watermelon Lemonade is perfect if you're on a health kick, because it's comes with a huge slice of watermelon. And watermelon is a fruit, so technically this drink is good for you. Pair that with an appetizer that is big enough to be considered an entree. Somebody's grandma would tell you that the best cure for a hangover is more alcohol, so you're already on the right path with your Watermelon Lemonade. So why not go all in and order the Hung Over. The Hung Over is 2 scrambled eggs with cheese and sausage served over french fries and smothered with Nana's sausage gravy with house pico de gayo & spiced sour cream. This plate comes with everything in the kitchen. The real comfort food you need to get you back to being yourself and ready to tackle your day. Nana's sausage gravy coats the fries and reminds you of Saturday morning breakfast with your grandma's homemade cooking. But the real flavor comes from the house pico de gayo and spiced sour cream. This combination has a real kick to it that wakes you up faster than a shot of espresso. Make sure that all of your bites are filled with each and every ingredient in order to get the full effect, and really knock that hangover out. Let's say you were out all night, soaking up the Jazz scene, and you need more of a classic breakfast. Go with the French Toast or Waffle. This plate comes with two eggs, two bacons, two sausage links, two turkey sausage, or a sausage patty.
The thick cut sourdough french toast is sweet and delicate, and has that perfect balance of soft on the inside and crisp on the outside that is so difficult to achieve. The Belgian waffle is a fluffy masterpiece that leaves your stomach and your soul full of happiness. For maximum deliciousness, ask for extra powdered sugar. Because sugar is good for you. Both of these come topped with berries and strawberries, so keep that same energy with the Berry Lemonade. You and your friends will all be on that perfect level to get ready for your next adventure. Whether thats taking a walk on the pier, or driving through the hoods of Los Angeles, either way you know you'll be ready. The Breakfast Bar is somewhere between the Jazz scene and Tupac. And if you're a real one, you'll be able to appreciate both. 2019 is the Year of the Pig on the Chinese calendar. According to the ancient definition and stories of the Pig, it symbolizes wealth. The pig's chubby face and big ears represents a life of fortune. Pigs are known as genuinely happy creatures. They allow themselves to enjoy life and live by the motto "Treat Yoself!" They say you are what you eat, so you might as well go ahead and indulge on some wealth and good fortune. Twisted Pig Bar and Grill 2717 Coffee Road, Modesto, CA Hours: M-TH 11 am - 12 am F 11 am - 2 am SAT 10 am - 2 am SUN 11 am - 10 pm It's pretty messed up to think about eating pig during the Year of the Pig. That's probably not what pigs thought was gonna happen when they found out they were going to have an entire year dedicated to them. But then again, it's not our fault that they taste so good. Twisted Pig Bar and Grill is a local American restaurant with a not so traditional approach. This gem hiding in plain sight is more than just a restaurant. They have a full bar, a game room, and plenty of seating inside and outdoors. Their hand written sign on this particular February day says "99% of my socks are single and you don't see them crying about it." Around the entire restaurant, you can see some very unique art and decorations. Black and white photos of pigs hang in the restrooms, while photos of the prohibition era are set on the walls in the dining area. Above the bar sits a glass pig getting wasted on some Jameson Irish Whiskey. You know that pig is always ready for a good time. Happy Hour had the entire bar full, and everyone was enjoying some good drinks to go along with a good time. But if you're not there for the drinks, don't worry because the food will definitely have you feeling drunk in love with your plate. This experience is somewhat like a first date, and if you play your cards right you might be lucky enough to get that first kiss. Appetizers The pig would never skip out on appetizers, so why would you? Do yourself a favor and have food before your meal, it's the way of the pig. There are a handful of options that you can't go wrong with. The Twisted Mac is mac and cheese made with a creamy housemate cheese sauce, bacon, butter, and toasted bread crumbs. This is like the part of the date when you're trying to get to know the other person. With not too much bacon on top, you can get a glimpse into your future. Can I see myself with this person for another date? Is their personality too cheesey? Can I get just a cup of bacon? Ok, maybe that last question doesn't relate to relationships. But yes, you can order just a cup of bacon. The Awesome Tots are tots topped with beer cheese sauce, pico, sour cream, and your choice of meat (definitely recommend the pulled pork). Every first date has to have an awkward moment. Whether its from you talking about your ex or your obsession with collecting Pop! toys, this moment is unavoidable. These tots are a necessity to move forward, without them you are incomplete. Entrees So you've got to know your date and you're passed the awkward moment, now its time to see where this night is really going. If you want to take things slow and keep the date pretty traditional, then this date is more like the Pork Ribs. The Pork Ribs are a half rack smothered in sweet and spicy barbecue sauce served with slaw and mashed potatoes. As you're finding the things you do and don't like about this person, you're consciously deciding if theres even going to be a second date. If they're anything like these ribs, they are sweet and caring and deserve a second date. Or in this case, a full rack of ribs if you're really hungry for more. Things may get a little bit messy, but it'll definitely be worth it. Now if you're really this person, and you're ready to go head over heels after the first date, then it is more like the 3 Little Pigs. This sandwich is the whole package. That person you've been looking for that checks all the boxes and is the type of person you'd take home to mama. The 3 Little Pigs is so big that it doesn't even come with sides, because the sides are on the sandwich. It is a hot link topped with pulled pork, bacon, coleslaw, fries, and a barbecue drizzle served on a roll. This is what you've been waiting for, everything you've ever wanted on one plate. But be careful, because sometimes getting everything you've ever wanted can get a little too spicy and you may over indulge on too much goodness. By this point, you've drove them home and you're sitting in your car telling the other person how much of a good time you've had. You tell them "Hey, lets do this again" knowing damn well that things went so bad that you hope you never accidentally see them in public. That would be your chain restaurant barbecue spot.
But its all about eating local, and finding the gem hiding in plain sight. Twisted Pig Bar and Grill is deserving of infinite date nights. So be more like a pig and Treat Yoself! 2/12/2019 2 Comments You're Such a Little EggSlutInstagram models run the world. They can have ten posts on their page with 500K followers, where nine of their photos are of them half naked (or just naked), and the other one is them posing with an energy drink while also being half naked. The visual appeal they offer creates an image that men and young boys can't turn away from, and that women and young girls envy. But these models aren't the only ones out here on Instagram looking sexy. There is some food that be looking thicc af. Not all Instagram models are sluts, but there is a chance that some of them are. Respect to the ones that have self-respect and do it simply for the money, and also respect to the ones that are doing it just for the attention. Women have the right to be a slut if they so choose too, just ask Amber Rose. Same goes with food. Some restaurants are totally fine with just creating a good plate of food that tastes good and will leave you happy for the time being. And then there is some food that wants your hands all over it. Taking pictures of it so you can look at it late at night and salivate over the times y'all had together. But neither of you are exclusive to each other. You know that everyone can get a piece for a price. You're just another slut for that meal. Theres nothing like some morning pleasure. Getting those endorphins flowing at 8 am will have you feeling like you're floating on a cloud all day. Having that yolk bust all over your face will have you feeling like a real EggSlut. With six locations across the world, their breakfast sure does get around. But for that moment in time, you feel like you're the only one that EggSlut cares about.
Because of social media, visual appeal is now a must in the food world. People can't eat their food unless they take a picture of it first. Having pictures of food in your phone is better than nudes. And EggSlut offers the best nudes the game has to offer. But with EggSlut, it goes deeper than the sex appeal. There is something there. They may be a slut on the outside, but once you get to know them, you feel like you have this connection that nobody else can feel. Unfortunately for you, everyone can feel the same way. Their breakfast is a necessity. Their menu offers modern simplicity. If you are feeling nostalgic, try the Bacon, Egg & Cheese. This breakfast sandwich will have you reminiscing about your first time. The hardwood smoked bacon, cage-free over medium egg, cheddar cheese and chipotle ketchup in a warm brioche bun will remind you of a time when you thought you knew what you were doing. Until you finally had the real thing, then you realized you had been doing it wrong all those years. Maybe you're feeling spicy, and you want to cheat on your typical breakfast with something a little more to offer. In which case, you should try the Fairfax. But don't hide your relationship from the world. With cage-free soft scrambled eggs and chives, cheddar cheese, caramelized onions and sriracha mayo in a warm brioche bun, you'll be wanting to kick your normal breakfast to the curb. Or maybe you want to go all out and try something you've never done before. The Cheeseburger comes with ground angus beef, cage-free over medium egg, caramelized onions, bread and butter pickles, cheddar cheese, and dijonnaise in a warm brioche bun. Having a burger for breakfast may have people questioning your actions, but let them think what they want. You know that you are comfortable in your own skin. With all of their bread being baked fresh daily and locally, you know you're getting the best buns money can buy. And unlike those nudes you have in your phone, you are free to share these with the world. Thanks to EggSlut, food is the real love language. It may or may not be real love, but you feel the connection regardless. What could be better than getting that breakfast climax you need to start your day? Shoutout to all the sluts, you are truly an inspiration. 2/8/2019 0 Comments Best Burger in Los Angeles?Burgerama 5424 Laurel Canyon Blvd Valley Village, CA 91607 Hours: 11 am - 8 pm Mon-Sat On a beautiful breezy January afternoon in Los Angeles, my boys and I were cruising around with the windows down. Checking out the scenery and enjoying the weather. I'm in the passenger seat and of course I'm keeping an eye out for some cool local restaurants, and I see a sign for a restaurant called Burgerama. The name got my attention and I guess I said something about going there. My friends claimedthis happened but I don't remember. Apparently I had spoken this experience into existence without even knowing, or remembering it. It ended up being our last restaurant on our way home. My friend said he needed a burger before we left the city, so I guess I subconsciously had already picked this spot the morning before. Burgerama is a brand new burger spot in Valley Village, a neighborhood in Los Angeles that is just a few minutes away from Hollywood. And similar to the big dreams made in Hollywood, you can make your dreams of a delicious burger become a reality in just a matter of minutes. There was two smiling faces waiting for us as soon as we walked in. Stephanie and Val greeted us and asked us how we found out about their restaurant that has been open for just five months. It is just the two of them, six days a week, serving the community with some delicious food and good vibes. If you want to talk about trying to make a dream become a reality, thats how it happens. I'm guessing they put in anywhere from 10-12 hours a day of hard work in the restaurant, and on top of that, still have to run their new business. It was inspirational just to talk to them for a few minutes before putting in our order. Makes you kinda wonder what is really possible if you follow your passion. The good vibes come first with them, but then it's all about the burgers. And after having a conversation with some of the nicest people we've ever met, I didn't think the food could top the vibes. But my goodness.
I ordered the Country Boy, which is served with bacon, monterey jack cheese, two (FAT) onion rings, and drizzled with bourbon sauce. Val brought the food to our table, and it was a wrap from there. I didn't wantto take the time to take a picture of my food, but I knew for the sake of the blog I had to wait and capture the moment. I knew the bite I was about to take was going to be incredible. I remember everything in slow motion. My hands stretched out as wide as possible in order to get the best grip, my eyes wide open so that I could take in the moment, mouth watering in anticipation. And then finally taking that huge first bite was like a Hollywood dream come true. That burger was thicc af. This was easily one of the best burgers I've ever had. I'm usually always trying to keep my hands and face clean as I eat, but after that first bite I made the conscious decision to just immerse myself in the entire experience and allowed myself to be a sloppy mess while I devoured it all. The fries were cooked to a delicious salty crisp, and were served with ranch and spicy ketchup that paired beautifully. This spot was all about about passion. The love and care that these two put into this restaurant can be tasted in the food itself. There is soul food and then there is food for the soul. This is where you go to cleanse all your sins, and those sins being any other lesser burger you've ever eaten. Do yourself a favor and ask for a side of forgiveness with your order. Stephanie and Val were very humble, and that will do nothing but take them wherever their hearts desire. But I'll be not humble for them. Go check them out next time you're in LA! |
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. Archives
November 2019
Categories |