http://www.yumsugar.com/ To die for. en http://www.yumsugar.com/2297002 <p>Starbucks has been keeping itself busy. Not only has it developed a <a href="http://www.yumsugar.com/slideshow/2153256" >whole new line of food items</a>, but <a href="http://www.yumsugar.com/tags/starbucks" >the company</a> has been working on a bigger product launch: its Clover Small Batch Coffee, a new offering that highlights high-end coffees. <span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/1/15259/41_2008/StarbucksClover.preview.JPG" alt="" title="" class="image preview" height="484" width="550"></span>The new coffee program has two important elements: high-quality beans from varying origins, and specific coffee equipment known as <a href="http://cloverequipment.com/Home/Default2.aspx" target="_blank">Clover</a> machines to brew the beans. The idea is to encourage customers to taste coffee like they would wine. Because like wine, coffee's origins, soil, and climate are reflected in its taste. At $11,000 each, Clover coffee makers aren't cheap, but they employ a vacuum-press process, turning out individually brewed, made-to-order cups that highlight coffee's true flavors.<br /> <p><div style="float:left;line-height:8px;margin-bottom:0px;font-size:9px"><div id=mask-89711 class=mask style=';width:100px;height:100px;overflow:hidden;background:#FFF;margin:0px 8px 8px 0px;border:0px solid #111;padding:0px;' onmouseover={style.borderColor='#66BB50'} onmouseout={style.borderColor='#111'}><div style='margin-left:0px;margin-top:0px;padding:0px;'><a target="gallery4" class="thumb2 active" href="http://www.yumsugar.com/gallery/view/2298286?page=0,0,0"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/1/15259/41_2008/IMG_3745.mediumsquare.JPG" alt="" title="" class="image mediumsquare" height="100" width="100" /></a></div></div></div><div style="float:left;line-height:8px;margin-bottom:0px;font-size:9px"><div id=mask-3709 class=mask style=';width:100px;height:100px;overflow:hidden;background:#FFF;margin:0px 8px 8px 0px;border:0px solid #111;padding:0px;' onmouseover={style.borderColor='#66BB50'} onmouseout={style.borderColor='#111'}><div style='margin-left:0px;margin-top:0px;padding:0px;'><a target="gallery4" class="thumb2 " href="http://www.yumsugar.com/gallery/view/2298286?page=0,1,0"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/1/15259/41_2008/IMG_3746.mediumsquare.JPG" alt="" title="" class="image mediumsquare" height="100" width="100" /></a></div></div></div><div style="float:left;line-height:8px;margin-bottom:0px;font-size:9px"><div id=mask-3127 class=mask style=';width:100px;height:100px;overflow:hidden;background:#FFF;margin:0px 8px 8px 0px;border:0px solid #111;padding:0px;' onmouseover={style.borderColor='#66BB50'} onmouseout={style.borderColor='#111'}><div style='margin-left:0px;margin-top:0px;padding:0px;'><a target="gallery4" class="thumb2 " href="http://www.yumsugar.com/gallery/view/2298286?page=0,2,0"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/1/15259/41_2008/IMG_3747.mediumsquare.JPG" alt="" title="" class="image mediumsquare" height="100" width="100" /></a></div></div></div><div style="float:left;line-height:8px;margin-bottom:0px;font-size:9px"><div id=mask-31824 class=mask style=';width:100px;height:100px;overflow:hidden;background:#FFF;margin:0px 8px 8px 0px;border:0px solid #111;padding:0px;' onmouseover={style.borderColor='#66BB50'} onmouseout={style.borderColor='#111'}><div style='margin-left:0px;margin-top:0px;padding:0px;'><a target="gallery4" class="thumb2 " href="http://www.yumsugar.com/gallery/view/2298286?page=0,3,0"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/1/15259/41_2008/IMG_3748.mediumsquare.JPG" alt="" title="" class="image mediumsquare" height="100" width="100" /></a></div></div></div><div style="float:left;line-height:8px;margin-bottom:0px;font-size:9px"><div id=mask-99183 class=mask style=';width:100px;height:100px;overflow:hidden;background:#FFF;margin:0px 8px 8px 0px;border:0px solid #111;padding:0px;' onmouseover={style.borderColor='#66BB50'} onmouseout={style.borderColor='#111'}><div style='margin-left:0px;margin-top:0px;padding:0px;'><a target="gallery4" class="thumb2 " href="http://www.yumsugar.com/gallery/view/2298286?page=0,4,0"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/1/15259/41_2008/IMG_3749.mediumsquare.JPG" alt="" title="" class="image mediumsquare" height="100" width="100" /></a></div></div></div></p><br clear="all"></p> <p>This morning, Starbucks launched its Clover Small Batch Coffee Program in San Francisco (it has already been released in Boston, Seattle, and Portland). From a choice of five coffees, I selected the Ethiopia Nardos brew. The coffee was floral, and its notes of sweet brown sugar were enhanced when I took a bite of my croissant. At $2.75 for a tall, it was a treat well worth it. </p> <p>Have you tasted Clover coffee yet? What did you think? To see if there is a Clover program location near you, </p> <p><a href="http://www.yumsugar.com/2297002">read more</a></p> http://www.yumsugar.com/2297002#comment Clover coffee coffee maker news restaurants san francisco Starbucks taste test Tue, 07 Oct 2008 11:25:14 -0700 YumSugar http://www.yumsugar.com/2297002 http://www.yumsugar.com/2271379 <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/1/15259/41_2008/McDonalds_McCafe_Campaign.xlarge.jpg" alt="" title="" class="image right xlarge" height="191" width="320"></span>In an effort to further promote its new <a href="http://www.yumsugar.com/930225" >McCafé coffee bars</a>, fast-food chain <a href="http://www.yumsugar.com/tags/mcdonald's" >McDonald's</a> has released a <a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/jason-notte/have-a-latte-idiot-the-co_b_131106.html" target="_blank">new set of clips that make fun</a> of the coffeehouse scene popularized by <a href="http://www.yumsugar.com/tags/starbucks" >Starbucks</a>, billing it as a stuffy store overrun with brooding intellectuals. </p> <p>This isn't the first of the campaign against Starbucks: Earlier this year, <a href="http://www.yumsugar.com/1551854" >we took notice of the new McDonald's site Unsnobbycoffee.com</a>, which touts McDonald's coffee as simple, easy, and unpretentious when compared to Starbucks. The new commercials take this concept one step further. "Now we don't have to listen to jazz all day long!" one woman proclaims in the segment below. Check out the commercial for yourself and tell me: Do you find it funny, or is McDonald's, with its new segments that mock Starbucks, taking its ad campaign one step too far? </p> <p><center> <div style='width:455px' id="spi_tabs_container"> <div id="spi_tabs_top"> <div id="spi_tabs_topL"></div> <div id="spi_tabs_topR"></div> </div> <div class="panel chatter_chatter fbceleb " > <center> <script type="text/javascript" src="http://images.teamsugar.com/static/js/swfobject.js"></script> <p style=margin:0px;padding:0px id="player_2272622"><a href="http://www.macromedia.com/go/getflashplayer">Get Flash</a> to see this player.</p> <script type="text/javascript"> var so2272622 = new SWFObject('/static/flash/mediaplayer.swf','mpl','400','300','7'); so2272622.addParam('allowfullscreen','true'); so2272622.addVariable("file",'2272622.flv'); so2272622.addVariable('height', 328); so2272622.addVariable('image','/media/cooked/thumbs/2272622.jpg'); so2272622.addVariable('width','400'); so2272622.addVariable('logo','/static/imgs/watermark/yumsugar.png'); so2272622.write('player_2272622'); </script> </center> </div> <div id="spi_tabs_bot"> <div id="spi_tabs_botL"></div> <div id="spi_tabs_botR"></div> </div> </div></center><br /> <a href="http://www.boston.com" target="_blank">Source</a></p> http://www.yumsugar.com/2271379#comment advertising coffee mccafe McDonald's news restaurant chains restaurants Starbucks Mon, 06 Oct 2008 11:30:50 -0700 YumSugar http://www.yumsugar.com/2271379 http://www.yumsugar.com/2183041 <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/1/15259/40_2008/_Burger_King_fries.preview.jpg" alt="" title="" class="image preview" height="395" width="550"></span>Yesterday, <a href="http://www.yumsugar.com/tags/burger+king" >Burger King</a> announced that all of its restaurants in the US and Canada have made the switch to <a href="http://biz.yahoo.com/ap/081002/burger_king_trans_fat.html?.v=1" target="_blank">cooking with trans fat free oils</a>. The second most popular fast food chain also announced that all of its menu items, including baked goods, will contain zero grams of trans fat by Nov. 1 — earlier than the company anticipated. </p> <p>According to a <a href="http://www.nrn.com/article.aspx?id=359008" target="_blank">statement issued by Burger King</a>, customers who tried the new trans fat free foods were either unable to tell a difference in the taste of menu items or felt that the products tasted even better. The hamburger chain attributes this to its two proprietary blends of three oils. </p> <p>The company has fallen under criticism for taking so long to cut out trans fat oils: Both <a href="http://www.yumsugar.com/tags/kfc" >KFC</a> and <a href="http://www.yumsugar.com/tags/taco+bell" >Taco Bell</a> switched in 2007, and <a href="http://www.yumsugar.com/tags/wendy's" >Wendy's</a> a year before that. Number one fast food chain <a href="http://www.yumsugar.com/tags/mcdonald's" >McDonald's</a> is now one of the last to make the complete switch, promising a menu free of trans fats by the end of the year.</p> <p><a href="http://www.gettyimages.com" target="_blank">Source</a></p> http://www.yumsugar.com/2183041#comment Burger King chains fast food health KFC McDonald's news nutrition oils restaurants Taco Bell trans fat Fri, 03 Oct 2008 13:00:16 -0700 YumSugar http://www.yumsugar.com/2183041 http://www.yumsugar.com/slideshow/2153256 <a href="/slideshow/2153256?page=0"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/1/15259/40_2008/Starbucks_collage.xlarge.jpg" alt="Taste Test: New Starbucks Items" title="Taste Test: New Starbucks Items" class="image xlarge inline left" height="320" width="320" /></a>In an attempt to boost sales during <a href="http://www.yumsugar.com/tags/economy">tough economic times</a>, coffee giant <a href="http://www.yumsugar.com/tags/starbucks">Starbucks</a> has just unveiled a line of <a href="http://www.yumsugar.com/1784832">smoothies</a>, rolled out a <a href="http://www.fitsugar.com/1896346">healthy morning menu</a>, expanded its <a href="http://www.yumsugar.com/2071663">breakfast sandwich assortment</a>, and revealed a new collection of gourmet hot chocolates. Since we've been deluged with a new range of options, we decided to put the food to the test. To see how Starbucks fared, click start.<div id='pager' style='margin:25px auto;text-align:center;margin:8px; '><a href="/slideshow/2153256?page=0">Start Slideshow</a></div> http://www.yumsugar.com/slideshow/2153256#comment breakfast hot chocolate muffins news oatmeal Piadinis restaurants slideshows smoothies Starbucks taste tests Vivanno Thu, 02 Oct 2008 05:30:28 -0700 YumSugar http://www.yumsugar.com/2153256 http://www.yumsugar.com/2156575 <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/1/15259/40_2008/thestalls2.preview.jpg" alt="" title="" class="image preview" height="252" width="550"></span>This week, fast food chain <a href="http://www.yumsugar.com/tags/sonic" >Sonic Drive-In</a> released the first of a <a href="http://www.foodfacts.info/blog/2008/10/new-sonic-tv-ads-mimic-hills.html" target="_blank">new series of ads</a> that mimic MTV's <a href="http://www.yumsugar.com/tags/the+hills" >The Hills</a>. "The Stalls," as the advertising miniseries is called, begins by featuring the classic Sonic duo Pete and T.J. in a car at Sonic. After the two rave about banana pudding shakes, Pete announces he's met the girl of his dreams. </p> <p>Lured in to the drama of the to-be-continued commercial series, I visited Sonic's official <a href="http://www.thestalls.tv" target="_blank">"The Stalls" website</a>, where I previewed clips from the rest of the miniseries. Coming soon, I learned, "the drama heats up for T.J. and Pete over a couple of shakes and blasts." This new promotion airs weekly during episodes of <b>The Hills</b>, and actually ties in to other <a href="http://www.mtv.com/asm/sonic/sweeps/" target="_blank">sponsorships</a> between Sonic and MTV.</p> <p>Check out the clip below. I think the series is hilarious and I can't wait to watch the rest of the mini episodes. Will you be trying to catch them as well?<br /> <center><object width="425" height="344"><br /> <param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/40Z3khvYFdM&amp;hl=en&amp;fs=1"></param> <param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/40Z3khvYFdM&amp;hl=en&amp;fs=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object></center></p> <p><a href="http://www.thestalls.tv" target="_blank">Source</a></p> http://www.yumsugar.com/2156575#comment advertising news restaurant chains restaurants sonic the hills The Stalls tv Thu, 02 Oct 2008 03:00:00 -0700 YumSugar http://www.yumsugar.com/2156575 http://www.yumsugar.com/2148254 <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/1/15259/40_2008/menu.preview.jpg" alt="" title="" class="image preview" height="366" width="550"></span>Will diners consider their health before ordering a super-sized hamburger value meal? California legislators are betting on it: Last night, the state became the first to <a href="http://www.sacbee.com/111/story/1277571.html" target="_blank">require restaurant chains to post nutritional information</a> for their menu items. </p> <p>By 2011, roughly 17,000 chain restaurants will be required to post the fat, calories, salt, and carbohydrate values where customers can readily see them. Alternatively, they can hand out brochures with the information. Said California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger:<br /> <blockquote>When people go to the grocery store now . . . they can already read the labels and make informed decisions about what they eat. But now they will also have that pleasure when they go to the restaurant.</p></blockquote> <p>While the bill currently only applies to chains with 20 restaurants or more, it sets a precedent for imposing more health regulations on the restaurant industry, and sets the example for other states to follow suit. Do you predict this measure will change the way America eats? Will customers alter their eating habits because of menu labeling — or will people just eat what they want?</p> <p><a href="http://www.gettyimages.com" target="_blank">Source</a></p> http://www.yumsugar.com/2148254#comment california calories dining out health menu news nutrition nutrition info restaurant chains restaurants Wed, 01 Oct 2008 16:15:23 -0700 YumSugar http://www.yumsugar.com/2148254 http://www.yumsugar.com/2145114 <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/1/15259/40_2008/Dunkin_donuts.preview.jpg" alt="" title="" class="image preview" height="367" width="550"></span>Responding to the <a href="http://www.yumsugar.com/tags/economy" >economic hardship</a>, breakfast chain <a href="http://www.yumsugar.com/tags/dunkin%27+donuts" >Dunkin' Donuts</a> has come out with <a href="http://www.prnewswire.com/cgi-bin/stories.pl?ACCT=109&amp;STORY=/www/story/10-01-2008/0004895791&amp;EDATE=" target="_blank">its version of a recession deal</a>.</p> <p>Beginning today, small hot and iced lattes will cost only 99 cents from 2 to 5 p.m. The new special, dubbed "America's Latte Break," is the doughnut chain's response to the <a href="http://www.yumsugar.com/1845269" >Starbucks $2 afternoon coffee deal</a> that ended last month. The restaurants will also offer a 99 cent Egg and Cheese Sandwich — all day long — with the purchase of a medium or larger hot coffee. Both specials will run through Nov. 11.</p> <p>What do you think of "America's Latte Break"? Will it edge out the competition? Will you visit Dunkin' Donuts for afternoon coffee over Starbucks? </p> <p><a href="http://www.gettyimages.com" target="_blank">Source</a></p> http://www.yumsugar.com/2145114#comment coffee dunkin' donuts economy food crisis lattes restaurants Starbucks Wed, 01 Oct 2008 09:12:23 -0700 YumSugar http://www.yumsugar.com/2145114 http://www.yumsugar.com/2087251 <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/1/15259/39_2008/What-would-you-do1_0.jpg" alt="" title="" class="image outline preview" height="279" width="550"></span>We've all been in crazy situations, and I want to know how you handle entertaining fiascoes and bad restaurant behavior. I'll present a situation and you tell me what you would do. Here's today's scenario:</p> <p>You've just moved into a new neighborhood, and the friendly family next door stops by to say hi. They happen to own a nearby restaurant that you've been curious about and wanting to try. The hang-up? They invite you over, and it turns out their house is disorganized, dirty, and ill kept — which leaves you questioning the restaurant's <a href="http://www.yumsugar.com/1860611" >cleanliness and health standards</a>. As you leave, the family encourages you to come to the restaurant sometime for a meal. <i>What would you do?</i></p> <p>To find out what I would do in this scenario — it happened to a friend! — </p> <p><a href="http://www.yumsugar.com/2087251">read more</a></p> http://www.yumsugar.com/2087251#comment restaurants what would you do what would you make Thu, 25 Sep 2008 15:00:36 -0700 YumSugar http://www.yumsugar.com/2087251 http://www.yumsugar.com/2071210 <!-- no strip poll --><div id="epoll-view-2071210"></div><script type="text/javascript">new Ajax.Request('/epoll/view/2071210',{method:'get',onSuccess:function(transport){var epoll=$('epoll-view-2071210');epoll.update(transport.responseText);}});</script><noscript><p><p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/1/17470/39_2008/IMG_5386.preview.JPG" alt="" title="" class="image preview outline center" height="550" width="413"></span></p> </p><!-- no strip poll --><form action="/2071210" method="post" id="epoll_view_voting"> <div><div class="poll"> <div class="vote-form"> <div class="choices"><div class="form-item"> <label>Do You Eat at American Chains While in a Foreign Country? </label> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="0" class="form-radio" /> Yes, I love to check out the country's perspective of American food chains.</label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="1" class="form-radio" /> No, when I travel I prefer to avoid all things American.</label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="2" class="form-radio" /> I try not to, but sometimes I end up at a McDonald's.</label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="3" class="form-radio" /> Other — Fill me in below!</label> </div> </div> </div><input type="hidden" name="edit[nid]" id="edit-nid" value="2071210" /> <input type="submit" name="op" value="Vote" class="form-submit" /> </div><input type="hidden" name="edit[form_id]" id="edit-form_id" value="epoll_view_voting" /> </div> </div></form> <!-- no strip poll --></noscript><!-- no strip poll --> http://www.yumsugar.com/2071210#comment chains fast food McDonald's poll restaurants travel Wed, 24 Sep 2008 10:15:15 -0700 partysugar http://www.yumsugar.com/2071210 http://www.yumsugar.com/2039416 <!-- no strip poll --><div id="epoll-view-2039416"></div><script type="text/javascript">new Ajax.Request('/epoll/view/2039416',{method:'get',onSuccess:function(transport){var epoll=$('epoll-view-2039416');epoll.update(transport.responseText);}});</script><noscript><p><p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/1/17470/38_2008/knightmares.jpg" alt="" title="" class="image preview outline center" height="550" width="486"></span>Last night's <a href="http://www.yumsugar.com/tags/kitchen+nightmares" >Kitchen Nightmares</a> was all about one family's struggle to run a restaurant. The overbearing dad has diabetes, the son feels like he's never good enough, and the mom is stuck between the father-son battles. Although <a href="http://www.yumsugar.com/tags/gordon+ramsay" >Gordon Ramsay</a> manages to piece the family back together, the emotional episode made me wonder how I would feel if I worked in a family-owned restaurant. How about you?</p> <p>Photo Courtesy of <a href="http://www.fox.com" target="_blank">Fox</a>.</p> </p><!-- no strip poll --><form action="/2039416" method="post" id="epoll_view_voting"> <div><div class="poll"> <div class="vote-form"> <div class="choices"><div class="form-item"> <label>Would You Ever Open a Restaurant With Your Family?</label> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="0" class="form-radio" /> I work in a restaurant owned by my family. </label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="1" class="form-radio" /> Yes. I'm very close to my family and think it would be fun to own a restaurant together.</label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="2" class="form-radio" /> No. I love my family, but could never run a restaurant with them. </label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="3" class="form-radio" /> Other — fill me in below!</label> </div> </div> </div><input type="hidden" name="edit[nid]" id="edit-nid" value="2039416" /> <input type="submit" name="op" value="Vote" class="form-submit" /> </div><input type="hidden" name="edit[form_id]" id="edit-form_id" value="epoll_view_voting" /> </div> </div></form> <!-- no strip poll --></noscript><!-- no strip poll --> http://www.yumsugar.com/2039416#comment Fox Gordon Ramsay Kitchen Nightmares poll reality tv restaurants tv Fri, 19 Sep 2008 11:45:23 -0700 partysugar http://www.yumsugar.com/2039416 http://www.yumsugar.com/2037612 <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/1/17470/38_2008/obama-waffles-01%282%29.jpg" alt="" title="" class="image preview outline right" height="308" width="200"></span> <ul> <li>Bad taste: <a href="http://www.slashfood.com/2008/09/18/bad-taste-obama-waffle-mix/" target="_blank">Obama Waffle mix</a>. — <b>Slashfood</b></li> <li>Make your kitchen <a href="http://www.chow.com/stories/11314" target="_blank">hazard-free</a>. — <b>Chow</b></li> <li>Does food really <a href="http://www.slate.com/id/2200202/" target="_blank">travel 1,500 miles from farm to table</a>? — <b>Slate</b> <li>Toast the last days of Summer with <a href="http://www.hostessblog.com/2008/09/drink-of-the-week-sparkling-margarita-floats/" target="_blank">sparkling margarita floats</a>. — <b>Hostess with the Mostess</b></li> <li>How to <a href="http://www.thekitchn.com/thekitchn/tips-techniques/how-to-cook-quinoa-063344" target="_blank">cook with quinoa</a>.— <b>The Kitchn</b></li> <li>Can <a href="http://www.epicurious.com/articlesguides/blogs/editor/2008/09/can-service-eve.html" target="_blank">service at a restaurant</a> ever be too good?— <b>The Epi-Log</b></li> <li>The <a href="http://simplystated.realsimple.com/food/2008/09/the-dos-and-don.html" target="_blank">do's and don't's</a> of sandwich bags. — <b>Simply Stated</b></li> <li>The city of Toronto may <a href="http://www.seriouseats.com/2008/09/toronto-proposes-ban-on-coffee-cups.html" target="_blank">ban paper coffee cups</a>. — <b>Serious Eats</b></li> <li><a href="http://casasugar.com/2022538" >Be more energy-efficient</a> when washing dishes.— <b>CasaSugar</b></li> </ul> <p><a href="http://www.slashfood.com/2008/09/18/bad-taste-obama-waffle-mix/" target="_blank">Source</a></p> http://www.yumsugar.com/2037612#comment coffee cups dishwashing kitchen safety margaritas Obama Waffles quinoa restaurants sandwich bags toronto waiters yummy links Fri, 19 Sep 2008 06:45:30 -0700 partysugar http://www.yumsugar.com/2037612 http://www.yumsugar.com/2029055 <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/1/15259/38_2008/no-coins.jpg" alt="" title="" class="image outline right preview" height="440" width="350"></span>We've all been in crazy situations, and I want to know how you handle entertaining fiascoes and bad restaurant behavior. I'll present a situation and you tell me what you would do. Here's the latest scenario: </p> <p>You're at a small (but popular) restaurant that sells burgers and sausages to go. When you place your order you're told by the abrasive girl at the counter that your wait will be at least 15 minutes. </p> <p>Ten minutes into your wait, she suddenly cries out to everyone present:<br /> <blockquote>Hey, listen up everybody! The tip jar is right here, and if you could make a generous contribution that would be great . . . dollars only, please!</p></blockquote> <p><i>What would you do?</i></p> <p>To see what I would do in this situation — and it happened to me! — </p> <p><a href="http://www.yumsugar.com/2029055">read more</a></p> http://www.yumsugar.com/2029055#comment Etiquette restaurants tips what would you do what would you make Wed, 17 Sep 2008 07:45:34 -0700 YumSugar http://www.yumsugar.com/2029055 http://www.yumsugar.com/node/1984033 <p><a href="http://popsugar.com/1979994" >Posh Joins Ramsay as a Restaurateur</a> Victoria Beckham has been busy making headlines with her haircut, but when she returns to LA there's another project waiting — opening a restaurant! She's teaming up with her pal Gordon Ramsay to open a new eatery.</p> http://www.yumsugar.com/node/1984033#comment asides Gordon Ramsay Los Angeles popsugar restaurants victoria beckham Fri, 12 Sep 2008 05:25:37 -0700 partysugar http://www.yumsugar.com/1984033 http://www.yumsugar.com/1972163 <!-- no strip poll --><div id="epoll-view-1972163"></div><script type="text/javascript">new Ajax.Request('/epoll/view/1972163',{method:'get',onSuccess:function(transport){var epoll=$('epoll-view-1972163');epoll.update(transport.responseText);}});</script><noscript><p><p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/1/17470/37_2008/IMG_4997.preview.JPG" alt="" title="" class="image preview outline center" height="413" width="550"></span></p> </p><!-- no strip poll --><form action="/1972163" method="post" id="epoll_view_voting"> <div><div class="poll"> <div class="vote-form"> <div class="choices"><div class="form-item"> <label>Do You Eat at Restaurants With Picture Menus?</label> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="0" class="form-radio" /> Sure! Why not?</label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="1" class="form-radio" /> No, something about restaurants with poorly photographed dishes turns me off. </label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="2" class="form-radio" /> If I can, I avoid them. However, sometimes when traveling it can't be avoided.</label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="3" class="form-radio" /> I've never been to a restaurant with pictures on the menu. </label> </div> </div> </div><input type="hidden" name="edit[nid]" id="edit-nid" value="1972163" /> <input type="submit" name="op" value="Vote" class="form-submit" /> </div><input type="hidden" name="edit[form_id]" id="edit-form_id" value="epoll_view_voting" /> </div> </div></form> <!-- no strip poll --></noscript><!-- no strip poll --> http://www.yumsugar.com/1972163#comment food photography menu picture menus poll restaurants traveling Thu, 11 Sep 2008 06:45:20 -0700 partysugar http://www.yumsugar.com/1972163 http://www.yumsugar.com/1918693 <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/1/15259/36_2008/gordonramsay_0.xlarger.jpg" alt="" title="" class="image right xlarger" height="400" width="271"></span>With a handful of hit shows, an international restaurant group, and 12 Michelin stars to uphold, Gordon Ramsay keeps piling more on his plate. The chef announced he will be <a href="http://www.nypost.com/seven/09032008/entertainment/food/the_slice_is_right_127276.htm?page=0" target="_blank">opening a second venture in Manhattan</a>, his US version of a laid-back, relaxed gastropub. </p> <p>The casual concept, Ramsay defends, isn't due to the failing economy: "It's not because of the credit crunch or holding back. I just love that kind of alternative." </p> <p>Gordon Ramsay at the London, his first stateside spot in midtown Manhattan, opened in 2006 to mixed reviews from critics, but the restaurant has proved resilient, earning two Michelin stars. </p> <p>No word yet on when the café is set to open. Ramsay does have other things going on, after all: The new season of <a href="http://www.yumsugar.com/tags/kitchen+nightmares" >Kitchen Nightmares</a> premieres tonight on Fox. </p> <p><a href="http://www.gettyimages.com" target="_blank">Source</a></p> http://www.yumsugar.com/1918693#comment Gordon Ramsay gordon ramsay at the london Kitchen Nightmares new york news restaurants Thu, 04 Sep 2008 10:17:44 -0700 YumSugar http://www.yumsugar.com/1918693 http://www.yumsugar.com/1899820 <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/1/15259/35_2008/waiterbill.jpg" alt="" title="" class="image right preview" height="401" width="300"></span>The City of Brotherly Love is also the city with the most-tipping love. Based on <a href="http://www.zagat.com" target="_blank">Zagat's</a> newly released Philadelphia survey, the city's residents leave a generous <a href="http://www.zagat.com/About/Index.aspx?menu=PR120" target="_blank">19.6 percent tip</a> on average, compared to the countrywide average of 19 percent. Diners in New York — long considered the most expensive place to live in the US — only tip equal to the countrywide average, while those in Los Angeles tip below average at 18.4 percent. </p> <p>Do Philadelphians really possess more love for their fellow citymen? Or is it because of Philadelphia's <a href="http://nymag.com/daily/food/2008/08/zagat_philadelphians_tip_best.html" target="_blank">large number of BYO restaurants</a>? I'm most surprised by the fact that New Yorkers tip such a meager amount. When I lived in Manhattan more than five years ago, it was considered standard to tip 20 percent due to the high cost of living there, and the fact that so many New Yorkers make a living in the service industry. Do these numbers surprise you? Are they in line with what <a href="http://www.yumsugar.com/371943" >you would normally tip</a>, given decent service?</p> <p><a href="http://www.gettyimages.com" target="_blank">Source</a></p> http://www.yumsugar.com/1899820#comment dining eating out Los Angeles new york news philadelphia restaurants tipping waiters zagat Thu, 28 Aug 2008 15:00:55 -0700 YumSugar http://www.yumsugar.com/1899820 http://www.yumsugar.com/node/1896571 <p><a href="http://www.fitsugar.com/1896346" >Starbucks Adds Healthier Food Options</a> The company is hoping that the healthier breakfast options, which debut Sept. 3, will bring consumers back to the ailing company.</p> http://www.yumsugar.com/node/1896571#comment aside breakfast fitsugar news restaurants Starbucks Thu, 28 Aug 2008 08:55:00 -0700 YumSugar http://www.yumsugar.com/1896571 http://www.yumsugar.com/1896348 <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/1/15259/35_2008/bkposter082608.jpg" alt="" title="" class="image left preview" height="381" width="255"></span>Despite the <a href="http://www.yumsugar.com/tags/cost+increases" >soaring cost</a> of food prices, fast-food chain <a href="http://www.yumsugar.com/tags/burger+king" >Burger King</a> announced that it will be <a href="http://adage.com/article?article_id=130575" target="_blank">adding two petite-sized, lower-cost items</a> priced at $1.39: the Cheesy Bacon BK Wrapper and the Spicy Chicken BK Wrapper. </p> <p>Burger King is attempting this strategy in a frenzied fast-food climate, as the industry is struggling to balance <a href="http://www.yumsugar.com/tags/food+crisis" >rising costs of food</a> with value-added items. Fast-food companies such as <a href="http://www.yumsugar.com/tags/mcdonald's" >McDonald's</a> have had a difficult time keeping value items <a href="http://www.yumsugar.com/1845322" >under the traditional $1 mark</a>. Earlier this year, Burger King <a href="http://adage.com/article?article_id=126035" target="_blank">pulled a test</a> for a double cheeseburger on its value menu for $1, and <a href="http://www.yumsugar.com/tags/jack+in+the+box" >Jack in the Box</a> just announced a new <a href="http://www.foodfacts.info/blog/2008/08/jack-pita-snacks.html" target="_blank">rollout of pita snacks</a>, or "snack-sized wrap-style sandwiches" for $1.99. </p> <p>I'm not sure that these tactics will be enough to excel in the current economic environment, but perhaps these changes will allow all of the fast-food chains to gain back some market share. What do you think?</p> <p><a href="http://adage.com/article?article_id=130575" target="_blank">Source</a></p> http://www.yumsugar.com/1896348#comment Burger King chains cost increases economy fast food food crisis jack in the box news restaurants Wed, 27 Aug 2008 10:15:06 -0700 YumSugar http://www.yumsugar.com/1896348 http://www.yumsugar.com/1892290 <!-- no strip poll --><div id="epoll-view-1892290"></div><script type="text/javascript">new Ajax.Request('/epoll/view/1892290',{method:'get',onSuccess:function(transport){var epoll=$('epoll-view-1892290');epoll.update(transport.responseText);}});</script><noscript><p><p>Today in San Francisco, a new bar opens — and a social experiment begins. <a href="http://www.thrillist.com/archives/2008/08/honor_bar_sf_san_francisco_drinks_soma.html" target="_blank">Honor Bar</a> will have an honor-based billing system. While the wine list suggests prices ranging from $8 to $15 per glass, how much you slide into the provided money slot is entirely up to you and your conscience. The bar will also provide instructions (and a pour-it-yourself area) for a daily champagne cocktail. <span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/1/15259/35_2008/honorbarpoll.jpg" alt="" title="" class="image preview outline center" height="252" width="550"></span>If this method of payment proves successful, it may spark a whole slew of bars based on the honor code. The appeal? Restaurants save themselves the cost of a bartender.</p> <p>What do you think of this concept? I'd love to get your two cents (don't cheat me out of it!) Would you pony up the actual amount, or slide in a little less? Fear not; your answers are completely anonymous. </p> <p><a href="http://www.gettyimages.com" target="_blank">Source</a></p> </p><!-- no strip poll --><form action="/1892290" method="post" id="epoll_view_voting"> <div><div class="poll"> <div class="vote-form"> <div class="choices"><div class="form-item"> <label>Would You Obey This Honor Code? </label> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="0" class="form-radio" /> I'd pay the full amount — what goes around comes around.</label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="1" class="form-radio" /> I'd pay for my drink, but not the full amount. Hey, it's just a suggested price.</label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="2" class="form-radio" /> I wouldn't pay at all. Who will ever know?</label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="3" class="form-radio" /> Other — see my comments below.</label> </div> </div> </div><input type="hidden" name="edit[nid]" id="edit-nid" value="1892290" /> <input type="submit" name="op" value="Vote" class="form-submit" /> </div><input type="hidden" name="edit[form_id]" id="edit-form_id" value="epoll_view_voting" /> </div> </div></form> <!-- no strip poll --></noscript><!-- no strip poll --> http://www.yumsugar.com/1892290#comment bars dining out eating out fifth floor honor bar honor code poll restaurants san francisco what would you do Tue, 26 Aug 2008 12:16:43 -0700 YumSugar http://www.yumsugar.com/1892290 http://www.yumsugar.com/1880400 <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/1/15259/34_2008/boston%20market.preview.jpg" alt="" title="" class="image preview" height="360" width="550"></span>Boston Market is the latest restaurant chain to succumb to sluggish spending. The Golden, CO-based corporation announced yesterday that it will offer a <a href="http://www.bizjournals.com/denver/stories/2008/08/18/daily8.html" target="_blank">larger discounted menu</a> of 11 meals for $5. </p> <p>Boston Market joins a list of food chains — such as Subway, Quizno's, and <a href="http://www.yumsugar.com/1877014" >Domino's</a> — that have been promoting meals for $5. The company's chief brand officer, Judy Cantrell, said:<br /> <blockquote>The $5 price point is an important part of the new vernacular in the restaurant industry. It’s become a price point that consumers respond to, and we see an opportunity to increase the quality of choices with our slow-roasted rotisserie chicken meals.</p></blockquote> <p>The <a href="http://www.bostonmarket.com/home" target="_blank">value menu</a> includes the chain's popular one-quarter rotisserie chicken, classic chicken salad, and rotisserie chicken pot pie, which come with a side dish and a drink. The company will promote its newly-priced menu with a TV commercial and online campaign. Will you try one of their $5 meals?</p> <p><a href="http://www.gettyimages.com" target="_blank">Source</a></p> http://www.yumsugar.com/1880400#comment boston market chains cost increases dining out discounts economy fast food food prices news prices restaurants Wed, 20 Aug 2008 16:15:42 -0700 YumSugar http://www.yumsugar.com/1880400 http://www.yumsugar.com/1877014 <p>Last week Jack in the Box <a href="http://www.yumsugar.com/1864717" >expanded their breakfast</a> menu to include brunch bowls, and this week <a href="http://www.dominos.com/home/index.jsp" target="_blank">Domino's Pizza</a> has announced plans to introduce submarine sandwiches. The pizza delivery chain will offer four different kinds of baked sandwiches, including a Chicken Bacon Ranch sandwich and a Philly Cheese Steak sandwich. The $4.99 sandwiches will be delivered with or without a pizza order.<span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/1/17470/34_2008/dominosx-large.jpg" alt="" title="" class="image preview outline center" width="510"></span>With the sandwiches, which are available to order beginning on Aug. 25, Domino's hopes to increase lunch sales. Last Spring, <a href="http://www.yumsugar.com/1514336" >Pizza Hut added pasta to their menu</a>, so it's no surprise that Domino's is looking for other ways to grow profits. What do you think about the expansion? Will you try Domino's sandwiches?</p> <p><a href="http://www.usatoday.com/money/industries/food/2008-08-17-dominos-pizza-subs_N.htm" target="_blank">Source</a> and <a href="http://www.dominos.com/home/index.jsp" target="_blank">Source</a></p> http://www.yumsugar.com/1877014#comment chains domino's economy fast food food crisis news pizza restaurants sandwiches Tue, 19 Aug 2008 10:15:14 -0700 partysugar http://www.yumsugar.com/1877014 http://www.yumsugar.com/1865676 <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/1/17470/33_2008/PlaymateK_Micha_55312269_60.preview.jpg" alt="" title="" class="image preview outline right" width="307"></span>Like many young American women, Kendra Wilkinson loves the food at <a href="http://www.olivegarden.com/" target="_blank">Olive Garden</a>. However, unlike the majority of these women, Kendra is a Playboy Playmate, girlfriend to <a href="http://www.yumsugar.com/tag/hugh+hefner" >Hugh Hefner</a>, and star of the reality show <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Girls_Next_Door" target="_blank">The Girls Next Door</a>. On the series, she expresses her profound love for the Italian chain's artichoke dip and unlimited breadsticks. She's not a spokesperson for the brand, and her public, undying love is not returned. Rumor has it the officials at Olive Garden <a href="http://online.wsj.com/article/SB121857145147234237.html?mod=rss_media_and_ma" target="_blank">would like her to stop inadvertently promoting</a> the restaurant. They've worked hard to craft their family-friendly image, and a Playboy playmate doesn't exactly fit into that picture. Although many brands welcome a celebrity's endorsement, if the celebrity doesn't match the brand's image, problems can arise. </p> <p>I think it's an interesting topic, and wonder what you have to say about the matter. Can an unwanted spokesperson ruin a restaurant's reputation? </p> <p><a href="http://www.wireimage.com" target="_blank">Source</a></p> http://www.yumsugar.com/1865676#comment chains hugh hefner Kendra Wilkinson news olive garden playboy promotions restaurants spokespeople the girls next door Thu, 14 Aug 2008 09:00:00 -0700 partysugar http://www.yumsugar.com/1865676 http://www.yumsugar.com/1860611 <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/1/17470/33_2008/200330822-001.jpg" alt="" title="" class="image preview outline center" height="337" width="506"></span>A recent study by the <a href="http://www.cspinet.org/" target="_blank">Center For Science in the Public Interest</a> (CSPI) <a href="http://www.time.com/time/health/article/0,8599,1831421,00.html" target="_blank">has shown that restaurants are incredibly dirty</a>. From moldy refrigerators to live cockroaches to unsanitary prep and cook surfaces, the study illustrates the huge number of restaurants that are cited with health-code violations. Sarah Klein, an attorney for the CSPI, explains why most restaurants have a long way to go before they meet the Food and Drug Administration's health codes:<br /> <blockquote>Restaurants aren't motivated to pass a very high safety bar. A restaurant may commit violations that the Centers For Disease Control and Prevention would classify as most critical — improper holding temperatures, poor employee hygiene, food bought from unsafe sources, food that is not thoroughly cooked, or food surfaces that are not properly disinfected — without much fear of being shut down. Even violations that involve rat infestations or unwell employees (restaurant workers tend not to get paid sick days) also may not lead to closure. Restaurants only have the incentive to do what they need to do to stay open. The consumer would never know how close they were to being shut down.</p></blockquote> <p>While opposition is quick to point out that the inspectors could have been too harsh, I have a feeling the study's disturbing conclusions may be true. After all, Gordon Ramsay's <a href="http://www.yumsugar.com/tags/kitchen+nightmares" >Kitchen Nightmares</a> takes an insider's look at such kitchens. Although the findings don't list the restaurants' names, it does provide the public with a breakdown of the worst and best cities in terms of health expectations. To find out how your city ranked, </p> <p><a href="http://www.yumsugar.com/1860611">read more</a></p> http://www.yumsugar.com/1860611#comment health code news restaurants Time magazine Tue, 12 Aug 2008 10:15:15 -0700 partysugar http://www.yumsugar.com/1860611 http://www.yumsugar.com/1848541 <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/1/15259/32_2008/whopper.jpg" alt="" title="" class="image left preview" height="250" width="358"></span>On this day in 1991, the world's largest <a href="http://www.burgerking.com" target="_blank">Burger King</a> opened in Budapest, Hungary. At the time, the establishment — which was decorated with Beatles posters and other symbols of Americana — was built to break the hold that <a href="http://www.yumsugar.com/tags/mcdonalds" >McDonald's</a> had on the Central European market.<br /> <br clear=all><br /> You may hit the drive-thru when you get a late-night craving or know what combo meal to order, but what do you really know about this <a href="http://www.yumsugar.com/tags/burger+king" >fast-food royalty</a>? To find out, I'm going to show you a series of bestselling BK menu items, which you'll match to the correct name. Are you ready? Let's begin!</p> <p><a href="http://www.burgerking.com" target="_blank">Source</a></p> <p><a href="http://www.yumsugar.com/1848541">read more</a></p> http://www.yumsugar.com/1848541#comment Burger King fast food quiz restaurants Thu, 07 Aug 2008 11:15:12 -0700 YumSugar http://www.yumsugar.com/1848541 http://www.yumsugar.com/1846214 <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/1/17470/32_2008/73106081.jpg" alt="" title="" class="image preview outline right" width="256" ></span>With all of the <a href="http://www.yumsugar.com/tags/restaurants" >recent happenings in the chain-restaurant world</a>, I decided to put together a quiz for you. How much do you know about national restaurant chains and their <a href="http://www.yumsugar.com/1805198" >advertising slogans</a>? Take my quiz to find out! I'll give you a slogan, and you choose which chain it advertises. </p> <p><a href="http://www.gettyimages.com" target="_blank">Source</a></p> <p><a href="http://www.yumsugar.com/1846214">read more</a></p> http://www.yumsugar.com/1846214#comment advertising dining out quiz restaurant chains restaurants Wed, 06 Aug 2008 05:30:15 -0700 YumSugar http://www.yumsugar.com/1846214 http://www.yumsugar.com/1843325 <!-- no strip poll --><div id="epoll-view-1843325"></div><script type="text/javascript">new Ajax.Request('/epoll/view/1843325',{method:'get',onSuccess:function(transport){var epoll=$('epoll-view-1843325');epoll.update(transport.responseText);}});</script><noscript><p><p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/1/15259/32_2008/familystyle.preview.jpg" alt="" title="" class="image preview" height="360" width="550"></span>This past weekend I went camping and all the meals were family style with massive food spreads laid out for everyone to share. The only rules? No stealing the plate, no sitting, and no double dipping.</p> <p>Since I grew up eating Chinese food, I'm accustomed to sharing food on a lazy Susan, so this setup didn't bother me. I've learned that you have to be aggressive about getting the best stuff first! Still, I can see how some might dislike family-style dining, especially picky eaters or those concerned about sanitation. </p> <p>How do you feel about the matter? </p> <p><a href="" rel="nofollow">Source</a></p> </p><!-- no strip poll --><form action="/1843325" method="post" id="epoll_view_voting"> <div><div class="poll"> <div class="vote-form"> <div class="choices"><div class="form-item"> <label>Do You Prefer to Eat Family-Style or Have Your Own Plate?</label> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="0" class="form-radio" /> Family style — it gives me license to try everybody else's food!</label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="1" class="form-radio" /> It depends — I have to be in the mood to share. </label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="2" class="form-radio" /> Having my own dish — I prefer to have my dish to myself. </label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="3" class="form-radio" /> Other — I'll tell you my opinion in the comments.</label> </div> </div> </div><input type="hidden" name="edit[nid]" id="edit-nid" value="1843325" /> <input type="submit" name="op" value="Vote" class="form-submit" /> </div><input type="hidden" name="edit[form_id]" id="edit-form_id" value="epoll_view_voting" /> </div> </div></form> <!-- no strip poll --></noscript><!-- no strip poll --> http://www.yumsugar.com/1843325#comment dining out family style dining poll restaurants Would You Rather Tue, 05 Aug 2008 12:15:48 -0700 YumSugar http://www.yumsugar.com/1843325 http://www.yumsugar.com/1831364 <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/1/15259/31_2008/rubybomb.jpg" alt="" title="" class="image preview" height="" width="550"></span>Restaurant chain <a href="http://www.rubytuesday.com" target="_blank">Ruby Tuesday</a> announced its plans to <a href="http://www.brandweek.com/bw/content_display/news-and-features/retail-restaurants/e3i69cb10b1d7b83812e3bc3efed9e90af7" target="_blank">destroy one of its locations</a> next Tuesday in an explosion that will be broadcast live on its website. The explosion signals a new era for the chain, something the company has been trying to do with its slogan, "It's a brand new Tuesday." </p> <p>The bomb will go off on Aug. 5 at 3 p.m. EDT, at an undisclosed restaurant location which is the last remaining "old-style site." The overhaul includes a new "simple, fresh, American dining" menu and revamped décor. The makeover was the plan of David Oakley, <a href="http://www.brandweek.com/bw/content_display/news-and-features/retail-restaurants/e3i69cb10b1d7b83812e3bc3efed9e90af7" target="_blank">who said</a>:<br /> <blockquote>They have redone everything . . . gotten rid of all the bicycles hanging from the recycles, the surfboards and old movie posters to point where there wasn't an inch of space.</p></blockquote> <p>With an oversaturated sit-down restaurant market and an increasingly poor economy, the casual dining industry has been reeling. This campaign comes on the heels of an announcement two days ago that <a href="http://www.yumsugar.com/1823821" >Bennigan's would be closing almost 300 restaurants</a> after more than 30 years. What do you think about the bombing? Will you watch?</p> <p><a href="http://adweek.blogs.com/adfreak/2008/07/ruby-tuesday-de.html" target="_blank">Source</a></p> http://www.yumsugar.com/1831364#comment advertising bennigan's chain restaurants chains news restaurants ruby tuesday Thu, 31 Jul 2008 15:00:32 -0700 YumSugar http://www.yumsugar.com/1831364 http://www.yumsugar.com/node/1826574 <p><a href="http://www.gigglesugar.com/1826435" rel="nofollow">A Video Ode to Bennigan's: R.I.P.</a> Bennigan's is no more. Let us watch this video — which highlights everything virtuous about the bar and grill — in remembrance.</p> http://www.yumsugar.com/node/1826574#comment aside bennigan's chains restaurants Thu, 31 Jul 2008 13:52:28 -0700 YumSugar http://www.yumsugar.com/1826574 http://www.yumsugar.com/1823821 <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/1/15259/31_2008/bennigans.preview.jpg" alt="" title="" class="image preview" height="413" width="550"></span>For national chains <a href="http://www.bennigans.com/" target="_blank">Bennigan's</a> and <a href="http://www.steakandale.com/" target="_blank">Steak and Ale</a>, there is no pot o' gold at the end of the rainbow: The companies <a href="http://www.bloomberg.com/apps/news?pid=20601087&amp;sid=apX7FLLJ1Scg&amp;refer=home" target="_blank">filed for bankruptcy</a> protection and shut down all 292 corporate locations yesterday.</p> <p>For the two bar and grill chains, the downhill slope has come steep and fast. In June, parent company <a href="http://www.metromediarestaurants.com/default.php" target="_blank">Metromedia Restaurant Group</a> asked lenders to restructure its debt, as earnings were lower than expected. A week ago, the group's CEO resigned. And yesterday, all of the corporate locations for the Irish-themed taverns and country steakhouses <a href="http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20080729/ap_on_bi_ge/bennigan_s_bankruptcy_filing" target="_blank">appeared empty</a>. The company stated:<br /> <blockquote>Similar to other members of the casual dining industry, current economic and industry trends have adversely affected the group's overall financial performance.</p></blockquote> <p>Fans need not despair just yet — for now, the franchise locations will stay open. But the question remains: for <a href="http://gawker.com/5030478/top-o-the-evenin-to-ya-bennigans" target="_blank">how long</a>?</p> <p><a href="http://www.qatar-tourism.com/CatSubCatImages/bennigan'srestaurant.jpg" target="_blank">Source</a></p> http://www.yumsugar.com/1823821#comment bennigan's chains economy irish pubs news restaurants steak & ale Wed, 30 Jul 2008 07:45:59 -0700 YumSugar http://www.yumsugar.com/1823821 http://www.yumsugar.com/1822933 <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/1/17470/31_2008/cheesecakefac.jpg" alt="" title="" class="image preview outline right" height="525" width="340"></span>To commemorate their 30th anniversary, the <a href="http://www.cheesecakefactory.com/" target="_blank">Cheesecake Factory</a> will be lowering the price of cheesecake. When the first Factory opened in Beverly Hills in 1978, a piece of cheesecake was only $1.50. Tomorrow, (which also happens to be <a href="http://www.yumsugar.com/449242" >National Cheesecake Day</a>) the restaurant chain will offer cheesecake at its original ($1.50) price! </p> <p>In addition to serving the cheap cheesecake, the Cheesecake Factory is introducing a special, limited-edition flavor, the 30th Anniversary Chocolate Cake Cheesecake. A portion of the sales of each anniversary slice will be donated to <a href="http://www.secondharvest.org/" target="_blank">America's Second Harvest</a>. </p> <p>If you can't make it to a Cheesecake Factory tomorrow, no worries, the "sweet initiative" celebration — additional promotions have yet to be announced — will continue throughout the year.</p> <p><a href="http://asanjoserealestateagent.com/cheesecake-factory-blossom.gif" target="_blank">Source</a> and <a href=http://shop.thecheesecakefactory.com/PublicStore/product/Fresh-Banana-Cream-Cheesecake,156,92.aspx">Source</a></p> http://www.yumsugar.com/1822933#comment chains cheesecake cheesecake factory free food freebies national cheesecake day restaurants swag Tue, 29 Jul 2008 16:15:09 -0700 partysugar http://www.yumsugar.com/1822933 http://www.yumsugar.com/node/1819497 <p><a href="http://www.lilsugar.com/1816564" rel="nofollow">Does Your Tot Behave in Restaurants?</a><br /> Going to a restaurant with the tots in tow can leave parents feeling fretful. Nobody wants to be that mom with the screaming child running around the eatery. Crayons, snacks, books, and toys can be distraction tools, but they aren't a sure bet.</p> http://www.yumsugar.com/node/1819497#comment asides kids lilsugar restaurants Mon, 28 Jul 2008 13:53:40 -0700 partysugar http://www.yumsugar.com/1819497 http://www.yumsugar.com/1819181 <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/1/17470/31_2008/ChefTodd_John_15607277_600.preview.jpg" alt="" title="" class="image preview outline right" width="302"></span><a href="http://www.buzzsugar.com/tags/desperate+housewives" >Desperate Housewives</a> star and budding restaurateur <a href="http://popsugar.com/tags/eva+longoria" >Eva Longria</a> has announced her plan to open a second <a href="http://www.yumsugar.com/tags/beso" >Beso</a> restaurant. This time her sights are set on Las Vegas. </p> <p>The actress (who partnered with chef <a href="http://www.yumsugar.com/tag/todd+english" >Todd English</a> to open the VIP hot spot, Beso, in Los Angeles last March) has been spotted spending quality time at Caesar's Palace. The Vegas branch of Beso would be more of a loungey nightclub with small bites from English's Mexican-fusion menu. </p> <p>I have yet to dine at Beso, but I find the Vegas expansion interesting. Could more Besos be on the horizon? Also, I enjoy seeing a celebrity's take on the restaurant industry.<br /> What do you think of celebrity-owned restaurants? </p> <p><a href="http://www.wireimage.com" target="_blank">Source</a></p> http://www.yumsugar.com/1819181#comment beso eva longoria las vegas news restaurants todd english Mon, 28 Jul 2008 12:15:01 -0700 partysugar http://www.yumsugar.com/1819181 http://www.yumsugar.com/1803291 <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/1/17470/30_2008/200223278-001.jpg" alt="" title="" class="image preview outline center" height="332" width="514"></span>Last week I was out to sushi with a large group of people. When my friend suggested that we share a bunch of rolls and equally split the bill at the end of the meal, I hungrily agreed. The majority of the table was in, but the lovely couple seated to my right preferred to order on a separate bill. While this can lead to an awkward meal, the duo knew exactly how to handle the situation. To check out their advice to elegantly get out of the group order, </p> <p><a href="http://www.yumsugar.com/1803291">read more</a></p> http://www.yumsugar.com/1803291#comment dining dining out Etiquette restaurants tips Tue, 22 Jul 2008 10:15:00 -0700 partysugar http://www.yumsugar.com/1803291 http://www.yumsugar.com/1800602 <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/1/17470/30_2008/ryan-scott.jpg" alt="" title="" class="image preview outline center" width="540"></span>Last week I had the wonderful opportunity of going into the kitchen at San Francisco's <a href="http://www.missionbeachcafesf.com/" target="_blank">Mission Beach Cafe</a>. Chef <a href="http://www.yumsugar.com/tags/ryan+scott" >Ryan Scott</a>, a competitor on this season's <a href="http://www.yumsugar.com/tags/top+chef" >Top Chef</a>, invited me in for a crouton cooking lesson. The friendly, good-looking chef told me about his re-creation of the menu and his hopes to build the restaurant's status. With his <b>TC</b> experience behind him, Scott is busy focusing on cooking and making culinary appearances.<br /> <span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/1/17470/30_2008/IMG_4035.preview.JPG" alt="" title="" class="image preview outline left" width="300"></span>His delicious food is comforting yet sophisticated, familiar yet complex. If you're in the Bay Area, I highly recommend checking out the cafe. His homemade croutons (found in everything from soups to salads) are the best I've ever tasted. If you aren't in the area, bring a little bit of Ryan into your home with this amazing crouton recipe. <br clear=all>Instead of writing out the recipe, Scott, a hands on chef, preferred to teach me personally how to make them. To go behind the scenes and learn how to make Chef Scott's scrumptious croutons, take a look at our exclusive video, and </p> <p><a href="http://www.yumsugar.com/1800602">read more</a></p> http://www.yumsugar.com/1800602#comment bread celebrity chefs croutons in the kitchen mission beach cafe recipes restaurants ryan scott san francisco top chef top chef 4 videos Mon, 21 Jul 2008 11:15:39 -0700 partysugar http://www.yumsugar.com/1800602 http://www.yumsugar.com/1788005 <!-- no strip poll --><div id="epoll-view-1788005"></div><script type="text/javascript">new Ajax.Request('/epoll/view/1788005',{method:'get',onSuccess:function(transport){var epoll=$('epoll-view-1788005');epoll.update(transport.responseText);}});</script><noscript><p><p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/1/15259/29_2008/send%20back%20food.preview.jpg" alt="" title="" class="image right preview" height="" width="300"></span>This past weekend, I tried out a new restaurant. Unfortunately, the food was disappointing. Everything was either too salty, burned, or had a weird texture. </p> <p>I considered sending the food back to the kitchen, but ultimately I dealt with it. </p> <p>What about you? When you order unsatisfactory food, do you send it back to the kitchen?</p> </p><!-- no strip poll --><form action="/1788005" method="post" id="epoll_view_voting"> <div><div class="poll"> <div class="vote-form"> <div class="choices"><div class="form-item"> <label>Would You Send a Plate Back to the Kitchen?</label> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="0" class="form-radio" /> Yes. When my food doesn't taste like it should, I send it back.</label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="1" class="form-radio" /> Maybe; it depends on how bad it is. </label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="2" class="form-radio" /> Only if I found something unsanitary in my food.</label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="3" class="form-radio" /> No. I feel too guilty about doing it.</label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="4" class="form-radio" /> Other — see my comments below.</label> </div> </div> </div><input type="hidden" name="edit[nid]" id="edit-nid" value="1788005" /> <input type="submit" name="op" value="Vote" class="form-submit" /> </div><input type="hidden" name="edit[form_id]" id="edit-form_id" value="epoll_view_voting" /> </div> </div></form> <!-- no strip poll --></noscript><!-- no strip poll --> http://www.yumsugar.com/1788005#comment dining out poll restaurants Fri, 18 Jul 2008 11:45:58 -0700 YumSugar http://www.yumsugar.com/1788005 http://www.yumsugar.com/1783401 <!-- no strip poll --><div id="epoll-view-1783401"></div><script type="text/javascript">new Ajax.Request('/epoll/view/1783401',{method:'get',onSuccess:function(transport){var epoll=$('epoll-view-1783401');epoll.update(transport.responseText);}});</script><noscript><p><p>Recently at <a href="http://www.waterbarsf.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Waterbar</a>, here in San Francisco, I ordered the fish &amp; chips. I was blown away when the waiter brought out an entire rock cod — eyes, fins and all! The fish was battered and deep-fried whole for my eating pleasure. I immediately began to dig in, but some of my friends sharing the gigantic entrée were a little more hesitant. How about you? Could you stomach this unique version of fish and chips? <span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/0/3986/28_2008/IMGP4750_0.jpg" alt="" title="" class="image center preview" height="550" width="495"></span></p> </p><!-- no strip poll --><form action="/1783401" method="post" id="epoll_view_voting"> <div><div class="poll"> <div class="vote-form"> <div class="choices"><div class="form-item"> <label>Would You Eat This Fish and Chips? </label> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="0" class="form-radio" /> Yes, a couple fins and eyes would never scare me away!</label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="1" class="form-radio" /> I would give it a try, it's only fish and chips, right?</label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="2" class="form-radio" /> Absolutely not — I won’t eat anything that can still look at me!</label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="3" class="form-radio" /> I would eat the chips, but not the fish.</label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="4" class="form-radio" /> Other — share below.</label> </div> </div> </div><input type="hidden" name="edit[nid]" id="edit-nid" value="1783401" /> <input type="submit" name="op" value="Vote" class="form-submit" /> </div><input type="hidden" name="edit[form_id]" id="edit-form_id" value="epoll_view_voting" /> </div> </div></form> <!-- no strip poll --></noscript><!-- no strip poll --> http://www.yumsugar.com/1783401#comment british cod fish fish and chips poll restaurants san francisco waterbar would you eat this Tue, 15 Jul 2008 05:30:42 -0700 YumSugar http://www.yumsugar.com/1783401 http://www.yumsugar.com/1755036 <p>Anyone who's ever watched <a href="http://yumsugar.com/tags/top+chef" >Top Chef</a>, flipped through a food magazine, or eaten at a fancy restaurant understands the importance of plating food. First impressions are important, and the way your meal is presented can determine whether it's considered mere grub or totally gourmet. But you don't have to be a pro to create a pretty plate. Here are five simple tips to making restaurant-worthy plates at home.</p> <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/0/6066/27_2008/71087037.preview.jpg" alt="" title="" class="image preview" height="442" width="550"></span></p> <ul> <li>Use large plates. Crowded food looks messy, so give your dishes room to breath. Negative space on a plate looks elegant, and leaving room between each item gives the individual components more oomph.</li> <li>Opt for neutral china. White, bone, and other neutral plates will complement pretty much any color of food, while busier patterns can sometimes clash.</li> </ul> <p>For a few more suggestions, </p> <p><a href="http://www.yumsugar.com/1755036">read more</a></p> http://www.yumsugar.com/1755036#comment food presentation perfect plating plating restaurants simple tip tips Thu, 03 Jul 2008 10:15:59 -0700 YumSugar http://www.yumsugar.com/1755036 http://www.yumsugar.com/1748932 <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/1/17470/27_2008/IMG_3636.preview.JPG" alt="" title="" class="image preview outline right" width="313"></span>Last week I was invited to a demonstration hosted by Chef <a href="http://www.yumsugar.com/tags/marcus+samuelsson" >Marcus Samuelsson</a>. An awarding-winning chef and cookbook author, Samuelsson is known for his role as chef and owner of <a href="http://www.aquavit.org/flash.html" target="_blank">Aquavit</a>, New York City's innovative restaurant devoted to Scandinavian cuisine. Taking inspiration from his Ethiopian roots, the chef recently opened his first African restaurant, <a href="http://www.merkato55.com/" target="_blank">Merkato 55</a>. His love for African cuisine was illustrated at the demo where he cooked <a href="http://abcnews.go.com/Nightline/Story?id=4626490&amp;page=1" target="_blank">shrimp piri piri in lettuce wraps</a> and rack of lamb with couscous. In San Francisco to promote <a href="http://www.prizer-painter.com/" target="_blank">BlueStar</a> cooking ranges, Samuelsson took some time out of his hectic schedule to speak with me. To see where he likes to eat in San Francisco and hear what he has to say about his buddy <a href="http://www.yumsugar.com/1717183" >Rocco DiSpirito</a>, </p> <p><a href="http://www.yumsugar.com/1748932">read more</a></p> http://www.yumsugar.com/1748932#comment African celebrity chefs chefs interviews marcus samuelsson new york restaurants san francisco scandinavian Mon, 30 Jun 2008 12:20:16 -0700 partysugar http://www.yumsugar.com/1748932 http://www.yumsugar.com/1740620 <p>Let me introduce you to Anne Burrell. Anne's a multi-tasker with many roles in the food industry. First and foremost, she's the executive chef of a restaurant, <a href="http://www.centrovinoteca.com/" target="_blank">Centro Vinoteca</a>, in New York City. She works at the restaurant six days a week and isn't much of a home cook. In her downtime Anne competes as <a href="http://www.yumsugar.com/tags/mario+batali" >Mario Batali</a>'s sous chef on <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.com/food/show_ia" target="_blank">Iron Chef America</a>.<span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/1/17470/26_2008/Anne%20Burrell%20Set1.preview.JPG" alt="" title="" class="image preview outline center" width="540"></span> However, her latest role is as a hostess of <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.com/food/show_lr" target="_blank">Secrets of a Restaurant Chef</a>, a new show on Food Network. This Sunday (at 9:30 a.m.) Anne's coming to a kitchen near you and she's teaching you how to cook like she does in her Centro Vinoteca. Earlier this week I chatted with the former <a href="http://www.ciachef.edu/" target="_blank">Culinary Institute of America instructor</a>, to see what she had to say, </p> <p><a href="http://www.yumsugar.com/1740620">read more</a></p> http://www.yumsugar.com/1740620#comment Anne Burrell centro vinoteca female chefs Food Network interviews iron chef mario batali restaurants secrets of a restaurant chef Fri, 27 Jun 2008 08:00:08 -0700 partysugar http://www.yumsugar.com/1740620 http://www.yumsugar.com/1737439 <!-- no strip poll --><div id="epoll-view-1737439"></div><script type="text/javascript">new Ajax.Request('/epoll/view/1737439',{method:'get',onSuccess:function(transport){var epoll=$('epoll-view-1737439');epoll.update(transport.responseText);}});</script><noscript><p><p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/1/17470/26_2008/74226847.jpg" alt="" title="" class="image preview outline center" height="474" width="360"></span></p> <p><a href="http://www.gettyimages.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Source</a></p> </p><!-- no strip poll --><form action="/1737439" method="post" id="epoll_view_voting"> <div><div class="poll"> <div class="vote-form"> <div class="choices"><div class="form-item"> <label>Have You Ever Worked in the Restaurant Industry?</label> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="0" class="form-radio" /> Yes, currently I work in the restaurant industry as a _______ (server, cook, bartender, etc. fill in the blank below!).</label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="1" class="form-radio" /> Yes, I worked in the restaurant industry as a _______ (server, cook, bartender, etc. fill in the blank below!).</label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="2" class="form-radio" /> Nope, I've never had a job at a restaurant. </label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="3" class="form-radio" /> I hope to one day work in the restaurant business.</label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="4" class="form-radio" /> Other — see my comment below. </label> </div> </div> </div><input type="hidden" name="edit[nid]" id="edit-nid" value="1737439" /> <input type="submit" name="op" value="Vote" class="form-submit" /> </div><input type="hidden" name="edit[form_id]" id="edit-form_id" value="epoll_view_voting" /> </div> </div></form> <!-- no strip poll --></noscript><!-- no strip poll --> http://www.yumsugar.com/1737439#comment bartenders poll restaurant industry restaurants waiters waitress waitstaff Thu, 26 Jun 2008 06:45:54 -0700 partysugar http://www.yumsugar.com/1737439 http://www.yumsugar.com/1736348 <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/0/6066/26_2008/dv359036.preview.jpg" alt="" title="" class="right image preview" height="452" width="300"></span>If you're a foodie who's headed out on a honeymoon, you're probably more worried about booking restaurant reservations than you are about booking a massage. After all, we wouldn't want to travel to exotic locales and miss out on the culinary highlights, would we? Thankfully, finding and securing the right restaurant reservations on your honeymoon just takes some planning. Here are some tips to help you along, whether you're going on a postwedding vacation or just traveling any old time.</p> <ul> <li>If fine dining is important to you, choose a destination <a href="http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/20075895/" target="_blank">known for its foodie appeal</a>, such as New York, London, or Spain.</li> <li>If a "must-eat" is on your list, book it as soon as you book your trip. Particularly if it's a destination restaurant, think about getting reservations months and months in advance. Remember to confirm your reservations before you leave.</li> <li>If you don't have a place in mind, start researching the best restaurants after you've decided on your honeymoon destination. Special magazine issues, such as <a href="http://www.foodandwine.com/" target="_blank">Food and Wine's</a> <a href="http://www.foodandwine.com/golist/2008/" target="_blank">The Go List</a>, are great for finding ideas, as is the <a href="http://travel.nytimes.com/travel/guides/north-america/united-states/new-york/new-york-city/restaurant-listings.html" target="_blank">New York Times travel dining guide</a>. The forums on <a href="http://www.chowhound.com/" target="_blank">Chowhound</a> are also a helpful resource.</li> </ul> <p>To get more wedding planning ideas, head over to <a href="http://idosugar.com" >IDoSugar</a>. Four more great tips, so </p> <p><a href="http://www.yumsugar.com/1736348">read more</a></p> http://www.yumsugar.com/1736348#comment honeymoon restaurant reservations restaurants travel wedding Wed, 25 Jun 2008 11:15:06 -0700 YumSugar http://www.yumsugar.com/1736348 http://www.yumsugar.com/1731354 <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/1/13603/26_2008/changfood.jpg" alt="" title="" class="image preview" height="171" width="550"></span>Star chef <a href="http://www.yumsugar.com/tags/david+chang" >David Chang</a> is causing a stir in the food-blog world. If you manage to get a reservation at his new restaurant <a href="http://www.momofuku.com/ko/default.asp" target="_blank">Momofuku Ko</a>, be prepared to leave your camera at home. According to Chang's new <a href="http://www.seriouseats.com/newyork/2008/06/banning-food-bloggers-photography-restaurants-momofuku-ko.html" target="_blank">no-photography rule</a>, diners will no longer be able to snap pics of luscious pork products or tasty eats (although the rule is not enforced at his larger sister restaurants). </p> <p>As an avid foodie photographer — my friends know to let me take photos before we dig in — I find this disappointing. I take pictures of food so I can relive it later and share it with you. I make sure to turn the flash off, never interrupt other diners, and work as quickly as possible. Hearing that it's banned in a place where so few folks can dine really bums me out. If I can't eat there, I want to live vicariously through someone else.</p> <p>What do you guys think? Do you think Chang, who says, "It's just food. Eat it," is on the right path, or should diners be able to take photos at restaurants?</p> http://www.yumsugar.com/1731354#comment david chang food photography momofuku ko new york restaurants Mon, 23 Jun 2008 11:15:40 -0700 partysugar http://www.yumsugar.com/1731354 http://www.yumsugar.com/1704978 <!-- no strip poll --><div id="epoll-view-1704978"></div><script type="text/javascript">new Ajax.Request('/epoll/view/1704978',{method:'get',onSuccess:function(transport){var epoll=$('epoll-view-1704978');epoll.update(transport.responseText);}});</script><noscript><p><p>Often, when I'm trying to decide between two dishes, I'll ask servers what they recommend. Sometimes they won't have an opinion, but often, servers are very knowledgeable about what the best items on the menu are. I rarely regret taking their advice. How about you? <span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/0/6066/24_2008/stk310242rkn.preview.jpg" alt="" title="" class="center image preview" height="456" width="450"></span> <a href="http://gettyimages.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Source</a></p> </p><!-- no strip poll --><form action="/1704978" method="post" id="epoll_view_voting"> <div><div class="poll"> <div class="vote-form"> <div class="choices"><div class="form-item"> <label>Do You Ask Servers For Menu Recommendations?</label> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="0" class="form-radio" /> Yes, I do it all the time!</label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="1" class="form-radio" /> Only if I'm having trouble making a decision.</label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="2" class="form-radio" /> Rarely — I don't like to take up too much of their time.</label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="3" class="form-radio" /> No. I just order what I want to order.</label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="4" class="form-radio" /> Other – I'll share in my comments below.</label> </div> </div> </div><input type="hidden" name="edit[nid]" id="edit-nid" value="1704978" /> <input type="submit" name="op" value="Vote" class="form-submit" /> </div><input type="hidden" name="edit[form_id]" id="edit-form_id" value="epoll_view_voting" /> </div> </div></form> <!-- no strip poll --></noscript><!-- no strip poll --> http://www.yumsugar.com/1704978#comment eating out menu ordering poll recommendations restaurants waiter recommendations waiters Fri, 13 Jun 2008 11:45:45 -0700 YumSugar http://www.yumsugar.com/1704978 http://www.yumsugar.com/1688575 <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/1/17470/23_2008/ChefGordo_Todd_55060995_600.preview.jpg" alt="" title="" class="image preview outline center" width="540"></span><a href="http://www.yumsugar.com/tags/gordon+ramsay" >Gordon Ramsay</a>'s Los Angeles restaurant, the <a href="http://www.thelondonwesthollywood.com/gordon_ramsay/" target="_blank">London</a>, opened last night with a star-studded dinner service. However, the cheftestants from <a href="http://www.yumsugar.com/tags/hell%27s+kitchen" >Hell's Kitchen</a> were nowhere in to be found. This makes me wonder if the <b>HK</b> prize — to be chef of the London — is a little exaggerated. Perhaps they merely get to be a line cook there? Items from the menu are far more sophisticated than the dishes made on the reality show. <a href="http://la.eater.com/archives/2008/05/01/gordon_ramsay_at_the_london_menu_revealed_reservation_lines_open.php" target="_blank">The menu includes</a>: <ul> <li>Baked foie-gras custard, crispy duck tongue, micro greens</li> <li>Monkfish with crispy chicken skin, lemon-thyme consommé</li> <li>Smoked pork belly with roasted Scottish langoustine, celeriac, and apple</li> </ul> <p>For some reason I can't imagine Bobby, Jen, or Corey making any of these dishes. What do you think? Does one of the <b>HK</b> contestants really work at the London? </p> <p><a href="http://www.wireimage.com" target="_blank">Source</a></p>