New York City: Motorino Pizza

I am a bit tardy with informing you all on my adventures to the city that never sleeps, New York City.  As most of you know, this is my millionth visit to this city of lights and food…and probably one of the most memorable. The “locals”  are similar to its weather this time of year, harsh and overbearing. Nonetheless, whether it be the abundance of the street meat vendors or the ridiculously extravagant cupcakes, these Yankees always know how to steal my heart.  

My weekend to NYC was sparked by my best girlies successful completion of her school semester, and I figured that this would be the perfect time to try a few restaurants that I had meant to try during my last visit. The most memorable being Motorino Pizza. This quaint little pizza joint received high praises from the one and only Rachael Ray, so I figured why not? Let me tell you: THIS WOMAN KNOWS HER PIZZA!!!! Gooey, squishy na’an bread tasting crust, loaded with the perfect toppings of your choice, keep your mouth longing for more. I am not exaggerating one bit. My pick, the brussel sprouts and pancetta, knocked me off my seat. I scoffed it up and ordered a side of spicy octopus and potato ( a must! ), washing this all down with a nice deep amber beer. The hunt was well worth the feed!

Xo Dom Appetit!

And I had to share Coney Island's Famous Nathan's Hot Dog!

Oistins: Local Fish Fry in Barbados

Everybody needs a bit of time away.  Take this sentence however you want, but for me, it meant time away from my regular schedule to venture away onto an island of paradise for some inner reflection.  We sometimes get so wrapped up in the daily drama that we forget to nourish our soul with a bit of love, sun and let us not forget, good eats.  I could write for hours about how wonderful and peaceful the beaches are, but my main focus of this entry is to introduce you to Oistins, THE local fish fry in Barbados.

Oistins is the number one hot spot to be at in Barbados on a Friday night. As you are arrive to the scene, you are easily lured in by the bright lights and loud beats of reggae soca surrounding every individual food hut. These huts are lined side by side with giant grills of fresh caught fish steaks sizzling with homemade marinades. Each hut serving their own specialties of sweet potatoes, cheesy macaroni pie (my favorite) and plantain at competitive prices and tastes. Once you have chosen your hut for the night, your picnic table awaits you as you are served a nice refreshing beverage of your choice, and left to bask in the smells of the sizzling grills. The portions are more than generous and if you are not much of a fish eater, you soon will be! The dolphin fish steaks (Mahi Mahi) are extremely moist and juicy, tasting like “real” meat.  You’re sure to find yourself returning for a second or maybe third night.

The entertainment at Oistins also makes it a hit with tourists and locals. The DJ’s spin the beats all evening, inviting the crowd to join in on stage for dancing, games and karaoke singing. They also have an area near the water where Motown hits are being played and crowds gather for ballroom dancing. Whatever your choice, this fish fry offers you a night of real Carribean fun, with an extremely tasty meal.

Xo Dom Appetit!