Fieeeeld Triiiip kiddies! We’re leaving Denton, Texas and going home to my old stomping grounds in New York.
NY – It’s immortalized in countless songs, movies, plays, pop culture, and the general consciousness. But, when you think of NY, you think of New York City (NYC), right? And why not? Take a trip to NYC, and it’s impossible not to have fun. If all you do is grab a double-decker bus tour (I know!) and make it to TKTS so you can see a show for half price, you’ll have a good time. I guarantee it. Throw a museum or a couple good meals on top, and you’ll never want to leave. But NYC is not all of NY. In fact, it’s the smallest part. Have you seen the signs around DFW that tell you our airport is bigger than Manhattan? It’s true. That’s how small ‘the city’ is. And the city is just one of 5 boroughs, as you know.
Despite the fact that both Queens and Brooklyn are actually on Long Island (LI) (and if you fly into La Guardia or JFK, you’re flying into Queens) most folks head northwest into Manhattan and never, ever head east to see the ridiculous beauty that is on LI, much less venture ‘upstate’. Long Island is so beautiful in fact, F. Scott Fitzgerald located Jay Gatsby's house there. For photos of that mansion, called Land's End, in real life, and links to other sites about it, see Jenn Ross's blog. It's also rumored that Captain Kidd hid some treasure here.
I recently had to make a quick trip back to the island, to my old home on the east end, north fork, and even I was caught flat-footed by the beauty of this place. I haven’t been back in like 5 years, and that was early autumn, I believe. This time I was fortunate enough to be there in early May, the latter part of spring. Holy Moly. The lilacs were blooming, the last of the forsythia was out, the cherry trees were in bloom, the sun was shining, but the breeze was cool, the water at the beaches was clear – though waaay too cold to swim in, and the architecture is… ridiculously diverse. Naturally, I didn’t take any pictures, ‘cause I suck like that. I really am sorry about that, kids. The nature of my visit sort of precluded photos. Next time I’ll go snap happy. In the meantime, I’ve tried to give you a bunch of links.
Since my stay was so brief and my historical knowledge and experience so deep, I don’t know if I can make fresh recommendations for what would be an awesome trip for everyone; I’m too close to it. What I can do is tell you about the fun things I did on this last visit, the places I saw, and what that all reminded me of, from my life there. I will say, I do think you’d enjoy the trip I had, but again, I’m biased.
I’ll start by saying how much I enjoyed the drive down the Long Island Expressway (LIE) (and back up the Sunrise Highway). No joke. It’s a pleasant, beautiful jaunt, and 1.5 hours will take you from Queens to the far east end of the island. The drivers in NY are competent, maintain braking distance, and didn't seem to feel like they had anything to prove. And, because no one tailgates, people can get on & off the highway with no problem – a nice break from our local driving conditions, right? (Sadly, it confirms something I've suspected for a long time - that N. Texas has the nastiest, most insecure, worst drivers in the US. What’s up with us?) For real, I didn't experience or receive road rage the entire time I was there and finally conquered my fear of driving to or from the airports. Kind of freeing.
Anyway, as I headed east, I turned north at Riverhead, and it’s in Riverhead that I can recommend the Best Market. I've heard it described as an import grocery store that has good prices, fresh produce, jellies from Poland, and the best cheeses you’ll find. I can personally attest to those cheeses – delightful. Plus they’re near a liquor store. Why do I mention this? Because you might just be loading up for a picnic at one of the parks or beaches or stocking a vacation rental.
Best is also across the street from a Dunkin Donuts (which isn't as rare and noteworthy to my NT readers, as it once was) and the Tanger Outlet. I didn't visit this time, but it’s worth mentioning. It’s a swanky outlet center, and I heard two ladies in the JFK departure lounge talking about the excellent deals they got on Coach purses.
So now you know.
If you end up detoured onto the main road in Riverhead, you’ll see a bit of a rundown street (although the surrounding buildings were more architecturally interesting than I realized, as a kid), and if you’re there, you might want to swing into the Salvation Army Family Store, if you like thrifting. This place yielded some magnificent results, when I was a teenager – including a 60’s vintage men’s jacket – thin lapels, pale mustard, printed with slightly darker mustard kanji characters and a Lord & Taylor label.
If you've worked up an appetite, step into the Star Confectionary. The only thing that’s changed in this place in 25 years is the name. When I was there regularly, it was known as Papa Nick’s. Go early though, it’s only open for breakfast & lunch. I think they close at 3pm? Even if diner food doesn't excite you, leave room for their ice cream - homemade on the premises. And, there’s a Greek place right across the street you could try your luck with. This part of the island has no shortage of Greek food.
Now, if you keep on coming east, you’ll pass through Mattituck. Even if you JUST had ice cream in Riverhead, you’ll have to save room or get a pint to go at Magic Fountain. Can I tell you, as kid, I was fascinated by the idea that this used to be a Dairy Queen? I’d heard of DQ, but I’d never actually seen one. I know! Now that I have both seen and eaten at several, I can tell you – without hesitation – Dairy Queen can’t hold a scepter to Magic Fountain. I mean, look at the flavors list. Heavens! Even Beth Marie’s can’t keep up, and you know how good that is!
If you want to eat something more substantial, you might check out The Old Mill Inn, which had very good clam chowder and the best burgers, when I was a kid. And a view - of the water. Did I mention that? Yeah. A nice change from our usual vistas of parking lots, amirite NT? If all you do is grab a snack and a drink, you'll love relaxing by the water.
Or, you might prefer Love Lane Kitchen. True story, when I lived there, this was a card and gift store. Now, it’s a cozy restaurant, with a slightly fancy schmancy menu, which can also feed you gluten free! Nice. Note: Every Tuesday they offer a different three course, prefix Italian menu. It looks delightful, but it is the only thing on offer, so do check before you go. If you're there in the summer, don't miss the lobster roll (which can be severed bunless). In fact, if you're anywhere on the island, in the summer, check out the lobster roll.
And you know, that’s something I noticed – all the time – how much nicer, cooler, more entertaining all of the North Fork was than I remember thinking as a bored teenager. I’ll bet just about everyone who goes back to where they grew up has this experience. Did you?
Now, you might take your ice cream or full belly down to the Mattiuck public beach, to swim or walk, or you might keep heading east towards Cutchogue. I mentioned previously that you’d be seeing bunches of farm stands. Well you’ll also start to see a lot of vineyards. No lie. There are even vineyard tours offered – in trolleys, limos and more limos. Surely there’s a more pedestrian small bus tour? Call in to any of the vineyards and ask – they’ll know. You definitely want to stop in and try some of the wine tasting menus or buy a bottle or two. I can recommend Peconic Bay Winery’s Steel Fermented Chardonnay. Now, if you’re thinking, “Oh God, not another chardonnay! I am all chardonnay-ed out.” Have no fear! I’m right with you in being exhausted from chardonnay, but steel fermented (or un-oaked) chardonnay is different – lighter, crisper. Just try it. Or not, they've got a bunch of other wines on offer. And, if you’re there in the warmer months, you’ll find they also have events, which you can enjoy with a glass of their finest. Of course, they are neither the only good wine producing vineyard, nor the only vineyard with events.
Continue on east (I swear, you’re almost to the end of the island) and you’ll hit Greenport. Park and walk around. There’s food, docks, beaches, galleries, the Greenport Harbor Brewing Company and The Opportunity Shop Thrift store, where my grandmother used to volunteer, and where a high school friend picked up a complete sharkskin suit – for like a $1.50. I scored among many other things, a mandarin collared, geisha printed, cheongsam-style dress and a cream brocade Nehru jacket, both of which my sister K inherited and wore too. I’m sure I paid a buck or less for each. Bear in mind, this was years ago, but why wouldn't you check it out?
You can also pick up the ferry here to Shelter Island, if you like. From Shelter Island you can take another ferry to Montauk, and from there on to Mystic Connecticut – where Mystic Pizza is. Thought that was just a movie? Nope. It’s real. Mystic Seaport is also there. If you've never seen an actual whaling boat (tiny) or a tall ship (enormous), you'll love it.
Progress another mile or so into East Marion and you’ll eventually pass the Hellenic Snack Bar & Restaurant. I’ll be honest, I almost didn't mention this place, because I don’t really want to increase traffic here – I always want to be able to get a table, fast. However, I really do value my readers, and you will want to eat here if you're visiting. If nothing else, you’ll want to drink the fresh lemonade. Sweet Jesus, that’s good, gooood stuff. If you do not have to be gluten free, you also want to order the skordalia. Now skordalia is just a creamy garlic sauce, but here it’s served over fried eggplant and zucchini, and it’s just not the same with say, carrot sticks. Additionally, if you’re not gluten free, you’ll be happy to eat just about everything on this menu. If you ARE gluten free, like me, just ask the wait staff – or call ahead – to discern the GF offerings. I’ll bet there’s some delightful lamb special. Oh, and while we were there on a Tuesday (?) night, there was a wine special: buy two entrées and get a bottle for $9! Can’t beat that.
You say you want to go further east? Why not, you've made it this far! If you want to go all the way to the end of the island, keep on to Orient Point, where my grandfather kept his dock and boathouse.
What else? Well, we went to Hampton Bays and ate some amazing pan-Asian food at Matsulin. I couldn't believe it, but they had a soft-shelled crab special that was fried, but coated in corn starch! What's that? NOT wheat flour is what that is, and was gluten free for me. After, we walked on one of the beaches.
And just about now, something might be clicking for you, even if you thought you’d never heard of Long Island before. You might be thinking, “Hampton Bays? Hampton Bays? Oh wait! Is that The Hamptons?” Well sort of. Or not really. Hampton Bays is the unHampton and was actually kind of sketchy, when I was a kid. However, it, like everywhere else, seems much nicer now. I saw plenty of places I’d be perfectly happy to live in, in this nice little town. But, that does bring up “The Hamptons”, doesn't it?
OK. I didn't go any further up the south shore than Hampton Bays, and the Hampton you’re probably thinking of is Southampton. When I was a kid, it was loads of fun to come here in the summer and shop the stores that only really bloomed in the summer. I mean, there was a Saks Fifth Avenue that only opened for the summer season, and the sucking up at all shops was epic. (True story, my great aunt came to visit once, from Abilene, TX. Now, with her hair [enormous], makeup [lots] and accent [honeyed], there is NO WAY you could mistake her for anything other than the southern belle she is. And on this shopping/site-seeing trip, in the mid-80’s she was received and treated like the oil heiress they assumed she was. It was a hoot.) I haven’t been back in years, and I don’t know how I’d feel. In that time Southampton has gone from being a mostly working-class winter town, with a large, elegant (mostly) summer crowd to an exploded circus of celebrities, celebutantes and just flashy nouveau riche. Does that sound stuffy? I suppose I am, a bit, there. So sue me. However, you might very well enjoy seeing the show and shopping the excellent little stores and galleries. When we would go there as teenagers, we always ate at The Driver’s Seat. The burger with potato salad was excellent, and they had a bar/patio in the back. Looks like they have a patio in the front now, too.
I think that’s enough for now, don’t you? Really, the east end of Long Island is an easy place to get around, with tons of natural beauty, good food and diverse entertainment. Even if you don’t follow any of my recommendations, you’ll still enjoy yourself.
Oh, but one last thing. It’s not pronounced Lawn Guyland. I've never said that; I've never heard a native say that, and we don’t think it’s funny when other people say it that way. Now, you guys feel free to visit, and learn to love New York like I love New York!
June 4, 2011
October 15, 2010
I'll Have Another - 100 Cups of Coffee continued
This is going to round out my tour of Denton's coffee houses, though
We visited:
If you've been reading my tweets, you may have guessed I've recently been diagnosed as gluten intolerant. That's almost as fun as it sounds. On the upside, however, I'm much less tired then I have been; in fact, I feel remarkably better, so I'm inclined to complain much less than I thought I might. On the downside, of course, eating is a bit less casual. In fact, after mentioning that I drink decaf, a friend who knows I have to eat gluten free (GF) told me recently, "You don't eat anything real!" I reminded him that I only eat real food, I just don't eat anything easy. So, I knew going into Cafe du Luxe, I'd have to pass on their sandwiches and pastries (damnit!), but I figured, even though no one had responded to the e-mail I sent a few days previously, that I'd be able to get a salad.
What I didn't expect was that no one at the counter or in the kitchen would know which of their salad dressings was gluten free. I mean, about 1 in 200 (or 1 in 133) people has some sort of gluten sensitivity, and we eat out!
Important lesson there, call ahead.
Anyway, after being pretty casually brushed aside by that day's cook, "We don't make any of our dressings or the black bean soup," I got a cup of decaf and a glass of water; M got a tomato & spinach quiche ("...not crispy, microwaved...") and a caramel, marked vanilla latte (pictured), and we sat down to compare notes. After I whipped out my laptop and started blogging, that same cook came out to tell me that the vinaigrettes and Caesar dressings were gluten free, but the bean soup was not. I hope my laptop didn't have anything to do with his improved customer service, but I wonder. Weirdly enough, a couple days after my visit, someone from the restaurant did answer my original e-mail. The very nice response I got was, in part:
Well this is good news, if too late for my post, and that menu is not as limited as the writer seems to think. I can get by on soup, salad, corn chips and hummus easily. However, it was also a bit confusing, since the cook on duty had told me the soup was NOT GF, and so far, my two requests for clarification have gone unanswered.
So I repeat, call ahead, my GF dears, if you're on your way there.
Have you started thinking, "Enough already! They'll have to pry the pastries and flour tortillas out of my cold, dead hands, how-was-the-coffee"? Well, read on Mcduff.
Art Six
When we walked in and smelled the warm, delicious perfume of their coffee and saw the rich brown walls and stripped floors, I said to M, "I think we've found our spiritual home."
Then I gave her a sip of my decaf Americano, and we knew we'd found our level.
Located in an old house in a residential neighborhood (you know I like that) on Bryan St, Art Six has been serving joe since 2004, and I was so very pleased to see how well they're doing. What else can I say about this place? It was just really comfortable with good coffee; what more do you need? I will mention I loved their bathroom. I know that sounds random, but if you've ever lived in (and redone) an old house, you appreciate other people's work, and seeing groovy old details like you might still have (for instance, a cast iron, in-wall gas heater). See it.
M kept going on about how much she missed this place, and how we should just spend hours here, or re-do our circuit. So, that's another enthusiastic thumbs up.
Cups and Crepes
You know I'm a big fan of mixed use and reuse, so there's no way I couldn't stop by Cups and Crepes. Located in a grandish, old pile on Fry St, this interesting venture has been in around since 2007, I believe. And, unlike all the other coffee houses on my tour, they're not concentrating onthe late-night crowd - thery're only open for breakfast and lunch.
So, one warm morning the SO and I ankled over there to get some breakfast and coffee. You know I stick to the plain jane coffee, and so does the SO, but there's a fancy-schmancy, cherry red, coffee machine, front and center when you enter, that looks like Ferrari might have designed it. If I wasn't on a mission, I absolutely would have fallen prey to its charms and ordered whatever it makes, just to see it in action. As it was, I got a cup of decaf, pancakes, bacon, and a scrambled egg. The SO got a cup of regular, scrambled eggs, toast, bacon. (Obviously, this visit was before I had to give up the gluten. And pancakes, ooooh pancakes.)
So let's talk about the coffee, shall we? I briefly tried to think of a synonym for excellent, but gave it up, because excellent perfectly characterizes this coffee. Strong, hot, smooth - even using honey instead of sugar - this was a cup of perfect. I don't know if it's their coffee or their brew method or if we just got lucky, but that's a cup of coffee I still remember. How many cups of Joe do you remember?
The wait for this food was looong. Really long. Grumpy-making long. I have no idea what the hold up was, but the food itself was really good, in that breakfast, comfort-food sort of way. There's no real reason that I can think of for it to have been so good, it wasn't special in any way, but it was good. Really good. I suggest trying it.
I also suggest trying the chocolate banana crepes. Do you know anything about crepes? If you’ve had any previous experience, you know that they can sometimes be... limp and slimy, for want of better descriptors, but these, though incredibly simple, were perfect. Really perfect. And writing about them now, makes me wonder if there's a gluten-free creperie out there anywhere. If you know of one, clue me in, please.
So, this was a kind of mixed or 50/50 proposition, right? Good food, great coffee, long wait. There was one deciding factor for me though, which insures I won't be back anytime soon - the heat. We were sitting in a little corner, near the thermostat, and though it was set on 68°, it registered 78°. That's right - degrees Fahrenheit. Y'all, I can't eat or relax indoors at that temperature.
When I asked the braless waitress (the SO thought that was a plus) if it was always so hot, she replied, "Pretty much." So, I won't be back for food in the spring or summer time, but if that truly excellent coffee calls to me, I'll get it to go.
When I thought about the close of this post, I thought back on the places I'd been and the coffees I enjoyed, and I realized I should have some sort of favorites list. So, without further ado, here it is, the coffees in Denton, Texas.
We visited:
- Cafe Du Luxe Closed
- Art Six Closed - though there is another coffee joint in the same spot
- Cups and Crepes
If you've been reading my tweets, you may have guessed I've recently been diagnosed as gluten intolerant. That's almost as fun as it sounds. On the upside, however, I'm much less tired then I have been; in fact, I feel remarkably better, so I'm inclined to complain much less than I thought I might. On the downside, of course, eating is a bit less casual. In fact, after mentioning that I drink decaf, a friend who knows I have to eat gluten free (GF) told me recently, "You don't eat anything real!" I reminded him that I only eat real food, I just don't eat anything easy. So, I knew going into Cafe du Luxe, I'd have to pass on their sandwiches and pastries (damnit!), but I figured, even though no one had responded to the e-mail I sent a few days previously, that I'd be able to get a salad.
What I didn't expect was that no one at the counter or in the kitchen would know which of their salad dressings was gluten free. I mean, about 1 in 200 (or 1 in 133) people has some sort of gluten sensitivity, and we eat out!
Important lesson there, call ahead.
We do not offer a gluten-free bread so we are unable to accommodate you on any of our sandwiches (unless you choose to order the sandwich without bread.) All of our salads can be modified to gluten-free when you request to leave off the croutons and baguette. All of our dressings are gluten-free as well. As for appetizers, our corn tortilla chips contain no gluten so we can offer our guacamole with chips and salsa, hummus with tortilla chips substituted for pita, and our freshly prepared shrimp ceviche. Our black bean soup is gluten-free and as far as our soup of the day any of our cooks would be happy to let you know whether or not it is a gluten-free soup. At this time we do not have any gluten-free desserts, unfortunately.
I am sorry for the limited menu options - the owner and I are working together at this time to expand our menu to accommodate our guests with special needs.
Well this is good news, if too late for my post, and that menu is not as limited as the writer seems to think. I can get by on soup, salad, corn chips and hummus easily. However, it was also a bit confusing, since the cook on duty had told me the soup was NOT GF, and so far, my two requests for clarification have gone unanswered.
So I repeat, call ahead, my GF dears, if you're on your way there.
Have you started thinking, "Enough already! They'll have to pry the pastries and flour tortillas out of my cold, dead hands, how-was-the-coffee"? Well, read on Mcduff.
| Where? | 3101 Unicorn Lake Boulevard |
| Open 24 hrs? | No. Mon - Thurs 5:30a - 10p; Friday 5:30a - 11p; Sat. 6a - 11p; Sun. 7a - 9p |
| What did you drink? | What do you think? A small (12 oz.) cup of the decaf |
| Organic? | No. |
| Kinds of cups | Mugs for in-house. Paper for to go. |
| Sugar/honey/raw? | Yes/Yes/Yes/Yellow Stuff |
| Milk/cream/half&half? | Yes, and in some really snazzy dispensers |
| Price | $1.62 |
| Yeah, yeah, but how does it taste?! | Not great. It was weak |
| What did M get? | 12 oz Caramel 'marked' Vanilla latte |
| Was it good? | Good, like dessert, and beautiful. |
| How much? | $2.98 |
| Bring Your Own Cup Discount? | "Ahhhh, you'd have to talk to David about that." |
| Loyalty Card? | No |
| Food or Pastries? | Yes |
| WiFi? | Yes - you have to buy something and get a code to use it |
| Atmosphere? | New, mod-ish, generic. A few upholstered seating areas, bar tables and barstools and small, round cafe tables |
| Crowd/Scene? | Retirees and post-movie theatre crowd. I'll bet they get a ton of 'on the way to work'ers too |
| Study or Socialize? | Socialize |
| Tea too? | Yes. Numi |
| Sidewalk seating? | Yes |
| Art? | Yes. Changes monthly |
| Live Music? | Occasionally |
| Anything else? | Wine! $5 for a glass of the house Concha Y Toro Frontera Chardonnay, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon or Shiraz. Reasonable prices on the featured and specialty wines too |
Art Six
When we walked in and smelled the warm, delicious perfume of their coffee and saw the rich brown walls and stripped floors, I said to M, "I think we've found our spiritual home."
Then I gave her a sip of my decaf Americano, and we knew we'd found our level.
Located in an old house in a residential neighborhood (you know I like that) on Bryan St, Art Six has been serving joe since 2004, and I was so very pleased to see how well they're doing. What else can I say about this place? It was just really comfortable with good coffee; what more do you need? I will mention I loved their bathroom. I know that sounds random, but if you've ever lived in (and redone) an old house, you appreciate other people's work, and seeing groovy old details like you might still have (for instance, a cast iron, in-wall gas heater). See it.
M kept going on about how much she missed this place, and how we should just spend hours here, or re-do our circuit. So, that's another enthusiastic thumbs up.
| Where? | 424 Bryan Street |
| Open 24 hrs? | No. Their posted summer hours were: M-F 11a -11p; Sat 11a-12m; Sun 2p -10p |
| What did you drink? | A small decaf Americano "It's stronger than the decaf." |
| Organic? | Yes. House coffee and house espresso |
| Kinds of cups | China mugs for in. Creepy styrofoam to go |
| Sugar/honey/raw? | Yes/No/No/Pink/Yellow |
| Milk/cream/half&half? | Half and Half and that creepy powdered creamer. Come on folks, really? |
| Price | $2.50 for a ‘small’ |
| Yeah, yeah, but how does it taste?! | Really good |
| What M get? | The daily staff pick - a vanilla latte frappe! |
| Was it good? | So good I helped her finish it, but I'm a good friend like that |
| How much? | $4.75 for a 20oz. |
| Bring Your Own Cup Discount? | Don't know; don't think so |
| Loyalty Card? | No |
| Food or Pastries? | Bagels, soups, sandwiches, muffins, biscotti, smoothies, milkshakes and both root beer and Dr. Pepper floats |
| WiFi? | Yes - Get the code from the barista |
| Atmosphere? | Converted old house at the corner of Bryan and Scripture, one block from Fry Street. 3 rooms of tables, couches, and barstools. Hipster Top 20 soundtrack, which, weirdly, cut in and out - like bad radio, and was nowhere near as annoying as it might have been, maybe because of the general awesomeness of the whole place |
| Crowd/Scene? | Oh students all the way |
| Study or Socialize? | I saw lots of both |
| Tea too? | Yes. By the cup, the pot, or iced |
| Sidewalk seating? | Backyard patio, and how nice is that? There's also a small front porch swing |
| Art? | Lots |
| Live Music? | No |
| Anything else? | Italian cream sodas and lemonade. You have no reason to go thirsty here |
Cups and Crepes
You know I'm a big fan of mixed use and reuse, so there's no way I couldn't stop by Cups and Crepes. Located in a grandish, old pile on Fry St, this interesting venture has been in around since 2007, I believe. And, unlike all the other coffee houses on my tour, they're not concentrating onthe late-night crowd - thery're only open for breakfast and lunch.
So, one warm morning the SO and I ankled over there to get some breakfast and coffee. You know I stick to the plain jane coffee, and so does the SO, but there's a fancy-schmancy, cherry red, coffee machine, front and center when you enter, that looks like Ferrari might have designed it. If I wasn't on a mission, I absolutely would have fallen prey to its charms and ordered whatever it makes, just to see it in action. As it was, I got a cup of decaf, pancakes, bacon, and a scrambled egg. The SO got a cup of regular, scrambled eggs, toast, bacon. (Obviously, this visit was before I had to give up the gluten. And pancakes, ooooh pancakes.)
So let's talk about the coffee, shall we? I briefly tried to think of a synonym for excellent, but gave it up, because excellent perfectly characterizes this coffee. Strong, hot, smooth - even using honey instead of sugar - this was a cup of perfect. I don't know if it's their coffee or their brew method or if we just got lucky, but that's a cup of coffee I still remember. How many cups of Joe do you remember?
The wait for this food was looong. Really long. Grumpy-making long. I have no idea what the hold up was, but the food itself was really good, in that breakfast, comfort-food sort of way. There's no real reason that I can think of for it to have been so good, it wasn't special in any way, but it was good. Really good. I suggest trying it.
I also suggest trying the chocolate banana crepes. Do you know anything about crepes? If you’ve had any previous experience, you know that they can sometimes be... limp and slimy, for want of better descriptors, but these, though incredibly simple, were perfect. Really perfect. And writing about them now, makes me wonder if there's a gluten-free creperie out there anywhere. If you know of one, clue me in, please.
So, this was a kind of mixed or 50/50 proposition, right? Good food, great coffee, long wait. There was one deciding factor for me though, which insures I won't be back anytime soon - the heat. We were sitting in a little corner, near the thermostat, and though it was set on 68°, it registered 78°. That's right - degrees Fahrenheit. Y'all, I can't eat or relax indoors at that temperature.
When I asked the braless waitress (the SO thought that was a plus) if it was always so hot, she replied, "Pretty much." So, I won't be back for food in the spring or summer time, but if that truly excellent coffee calls to me, I'll get it to go.
| Where? | 309 Fry St. |
| Open 24 hrs? | No. Th-Sun 8a-3p |
| What did you drink? | A mug of decaf |
| Organic? | Yes. |
| Kinds of cups | Mugs for in-house. Paper for to go. |
| Sugar/honey/raw? | Yes/Yes/No/Yellow Stuff |
| Milk/cream/half&half? | Yes/No/Yes |
| Yeah, yeah, but how does it taste?! | This was a noticeably good cup of coffee. |
| What did the SO get? | A cup of regular. |
| Was it good? | Just as good |
| Bring Your Own Cup Discount? | Don't think so. |
| Loyalty Card? | No |
| Food or Pastries? | Yes. |
| WiFi? | Yes. |
| Atmosphere? | The bottom floor of an old house, with some of the original finishes still there. |
| Crowd/Scene? | Totally mixed. Students, locals, local students |
| Study or Socialize? | Study, socialize and eat. |
| Tea too? | Yes. |
| Sidewalk seating? | No. Seating in the front yard instead! |
| Art? | Yes. Looks like school (college) projects |
| Live Music? | No. |
| Anything else? | The crepes! Well really, where else are you gonna get crepes in town? And who doens't like a crepe? If you can eat them, try these. |
When I thought about the close of this post, I thought back on the places I'd been and the coffees I enjoyed, and I realized I should have some sort of favorites list. So, without further ado, here it is, the coffees in Denton, Texas.
- Best Coffee - I still have to say, Cups and Crepes. That was a seriously good cup of joe.
- Best Place - This is really a tough one. I think I have a tie - The Hydrant and Art Six.
I didn't review it, but you might also look in on the Jupiter House on Carroll Blvd. It's lovely. - Best Art - Hands down, Art Six. There were paintings you might actually want to buy on display.
May 20, 2010
100 Cups of Coffee - The Grand Tour of Denton's Coffee Houses
Any Fans of Futurama reading? If you are, rest assured I'm not going to drink them all in one day, but I am embarking on a multi-part series of reviews of the coffee houses of Denton, Texas.
Are you thinking, "So soon?" (Those of you unfamiliar with sarcasm can read that as, "What took you so long?!")
I know; I know; it's time. Coffee in Denton has come up several times in your comments and has brought feedback in Twitter. Plus, as anyone with eyes (or a nose) can tell, Dentonistas and Dentonistos must love them some coffee. We've gone from having oh, one coffee shop - anyone remember the Karma Cafe? - to having, at my count, six straight-up coffee houses (not counting the 2nd Jupiter House or any of the Starbucks). And, of course, there's any number of places you can get a latte or just a decent cup of coffee. In fact, we've had coffee houses around long enough to morph into other things, like sushi cafes - where you can still get a cappuccino.
So what was the hold up? I'll tell you. As a graduated student and current working commuter, I don't have a routine that includes time reading, writing, studying or socializing at coffee houses, and believe me, I'm sorry I don't. However, I can't continue to ignore this vital part of Denton culture and commerce. So aided and abetted by a friend, M, who is a long-time student, writer and author, we set out to hit all the coffee shops we could think of, and maybe talk to some regulars along the way.
I should tell you too that I'll try to stick to the same thing at each stop – A regular old cup of coffee. I mean, what’s the worst cappuccino you ever had? Add enough frothy milk to any random blend of coffee and you still come up with a ‘big cup of love’ as a friend and former boss is wont to say. So, I’ll be trying their ‘best, dark roast’, letting whoever’s behind the counter decide, in either decaf or half caf. That’s right. I figure if an establishment cares enough to make a good cup of decaf, they’re going to be able to deliver everything else. M? She can have anything her little heart desires.
Today we'll be covering/discussing/reviewing:
Jupiter House
I'd give you a Web link, but their site is so outdated, it's just not worth it. (Update! They updated the site, and now it's useful: here.) Located on the Square (with a newer satellite on Carroll Blvd at University), Jupiter House is the Big Daddy (or silver back) of Denton Coffee houses. It was the first that opened big (I believe) and opened 24 hours, though not anymore.
Hydrant Cafe
The Hydrant is a relative newcomer on the scene, and they already have loyal fans. Comments to the blog and Twitter have alerted me to their presence, and I was happy to step in here on a recent Saturday. I have to say, I'm a fan now. I think this was my favorite joint, on this review cycle.
Update - I'm sorry to say they're closed. However, Denton Square Donuts has taken over their space, and you might like to try that.
Banter
Here's another business that doesn't seem to care about maintaining a Web site. What's up with that? I hope they get it fixed soon. Anyway, we walked right across the street from The Hydrant to Banter. Now, in fairness, I haven't really ever thought of Banter as a coffee house, but M has spent a fair amount of time here drinking coffee and studying, and it was close, so why not?
Big Mike's
Well M had to motor, but I did want to add Big Mike's to the inaugural lineup. Big Mike's is the newest venture of Mike Sutton. Located in the space his Voyager's Dream shop used to occupy, this coffee shop seems to be a going venture. You know I love recycling. And you know I love local (and independent) businesses, so I'm really happy to tell you about Big Mike's coffee.
Are you thinking, "So soon?" (Those of you unfamiliar with sarcasm can read that as, "What took you so long?!")
I know; I know; it's time. Coffee in Denton has come up several times in your comments and has brought feedback in Twitter. Plus, as anyone with eyes (or a nose) can tell, Dentonistas and Dentonistos must love them some coffee. We've gone from having oh, one coffee shop - anyone remember the Karma Cafe? - to having, at my count, six straight-up coffee houses (not counting the 2nd Jupiter House or any of the Starbucks). And, of course, there's any number of places you can get a latte or just a decent cup of coffee. In fact, we've had coffee houses around long enough to morph into other things, like sushi cafes - where you can still get a cappuccino.
So what was the hold up? I'll tell you. As a graduated student and current working commuter, I don't have a routine that includes time reading, writing, studying or socializing at coffee houses, and believe me, I'm sorry I don't. However, I can't continue to ignore this vital part of Denton culture and commerce. So aided and abetted by a friend, M, who is a long-time student, writer and author, we set out to hit all the coffee shops we could think of, and maybe talk to some regulars along the way.
I should tell you too that I'll try to stick to the same thing at each stop – A regular old cup of coffee. I mean, what’s the worst cappuccino you ever had? Add enough frothy milk to any random blend of coffee and you still come up with a ‘big cup of love’ as a friend and former boss is wont to say. So, I’ll be trying their ‘best, dark roast’, letting whoever’s behind the counter decide, in either decaf or half caf. That’s right. I figure if an establishment cares enough to make a good cup of decaf, they’re going to be able to deliver everything else. M? She can have anything her little heart desires.
Today we'll be covering/discussing/reviewing:
- Jupiter House
- Hydrant Cafe - Closed
- Banter
Jupiter House
I'd give you a Web link, but their site is so outdated, it's just not worth it. (Update! They updated the site, and now it's useful: here.) Located on the Square (with a newer satellite on Carroll Blvd at University), Jupiter House is the Big Daddy (or silver back) of Denton Coffee houses. It was the first that opened big (I believe) and opened 24 hours, though not anymore.
| Where? | 106 N. Locust St. |
| Open 24 hrs? | No. 6a to Midnight |
| What did you drink? | Small, Tocano Ultra Violet Vacuum water process decaf |
| Organic? | No |
| Kinds of cups | Icky Styrofoam to take, but regular mugs for in house |
| Sugar/honey/raw? | Yes/Yes/Yes |
| Milk/cream/half&half? | Skim/Soy/Almond/H&H - Where's the whole? |
| Price | Hard to find, since they're not posted - $1.75 |
| Yeah, yeah, but how does it taste?! | Honestly? Kind of bitter |
| What did your friend M get? | An Integrated Mocha (Decaf). That's half white chocolate, half dark chocolate, all delicious |
| Was it good? | OMG! Dessert in a cup |
| How much? | $4.25 |
| Bring Your Own Cup Discount? | Yes |
| Loyalty Card? | No |
| Food or Pastries? | Muffins, Breads, Bagels (Breads baked at Ravelin!) |
| WiFi? | Yes |
| Atmosphere? | Exposed brick, soft lighting, lots of tables |
| Crowd/Scene? | Totally mixed. All ages. LOTS of laptops |
| Study or Socialize? | I saw both on a Saturday a.m. |
| Tea too? | Yep |
| Sidewalk seating? | Yes |
| Art? | Yes |
| Live Music? | Every Saturday Night |
| Anything else? | Smoothies and Milkshakes! |
Hydrant Cafe
The Hydrant is a relative newcomer on the scene, and they already have loyal fans. Comments to the blog and Twitter have alerted me to their presence, and I was happy to step in here on a recent Saturday. I have to say, I'm a fan now. I think this was my favorite joint, on this review cycle.
| Where? | 208 W. Oak St. |
| Open 24 hrs? | No. M-Sat; 7a - 1a |
| What did you drink? | Small, whatever decaf they were slinging |
| Organic? | No |
| Kinds of cups | Icky Styrofoam to take, but regular mugs for in house |
| Sugar/honey/raw? | Yes/Yes/Yes/ and the Pink/Blue/ Yellow stuff |
| Milk/cream/half&half? | Cream. Asked for whole; they were out. Got 2% from Glen, the owner. Very nice guy |
| Price | $2.15 Hard to find, since they're not posted. Again. What's up with that? |
| Yeah, yeah, but how does it taste?! | Good, not great |
| What did your friend M get? | Hand squeezed lemonade |
| Was it good? | Another winner. Oh man was that good! |
| How much? | $ 2.39 |
| Bring Your Own Cup Discount? | Yes - 10% |
| Loyalty Card? | No |
| Food or Pastries? | Breakfast and Soup and Sandwiches. The grilled cheese they were cooking smelled so good, we had to have one. We're not sorry about it either |
| WiFi? | Yes |
| Atmosphere? | Victorian, six-sided white tile, red walls and some really great fire fighter related photos. You have to see it. Really comfy booths downstairs; couches, upholstered chairs upstairs |
| Crowd/Scene? | Seemed like regulars. Seems like it would be easy to become a regular too |
| Study or Socialize? | Socialize more, I think. But you could totally study here too |
| Tea too? | Yep |
| Sidewalk seating? | A little |
| Art? | Yes |
| Live Music? | Oh yes, and lots more. We came in at the end of a Coffee Lab! (Some sort of tasting clinic.) Check out their calendar. There're even plays going on here! |
| Anything else? | Well Glen made my coffee fresh, with a ceramic over head drip cone. That's pretty cool |
Update - I'm sorry to say they're closed. However, Denton Square Donuts has taken over their space, and you might like to try that.
Banter
Here's another business that doesn't seem to care about maintaining a Web site. What's up with that? I hope they get it fixed soon. Anyway, we walked right across the street from The Hydrant to Banter. Now, in fairness, I haven't really ever thought of Banter as a coffee house, but M has spent a fair amount of time here drinking coffee and studying, and it was close, so why not?
| Where? | 219 W. Oak St. |
| Open 24 hrs? | Nope. 10a - 12 Midnight |
| What did you drink? | Small, regular house coffee. Why? Cause they don't-have-decaf! |
| Organic? | No |
| Kinds of cups | Regular mugs for in house |
| Sugar/honey/raw? | Yes/ Yes/ No/ Pink stuff/ Yellow stuff |
| Milk/cream/half&half? | Cream |
| Price | $1.00 A dollar! |
| Yeah, yeah, but how does it taste?! | Good, not great. |
| What did your friend M get? | Iced Green Tea |
| Was it good? | Very refreshing |
| How much? | $1.75 |
| Bring Your Own Cup Discount? | No |
| Loyalty Card? | No |
| Food or Pastries? | Breakfast - all day, Lunch and Tapas - Thurs thru Sat. We tried another grilled cheese, the Jilled Cheese, to be exact. Cheddar, Bacon, and horse radish mayo panino. Fancy. Honestly, not as satisfying as the plain Jane version at The Hydrant |
| WiFi? | Yes |
| Atmosphere? | Exposed brick and stuccoed pine with school-house surplus chairs and lots of tables. Couches too. Humid the day day we were there, with the doors open. |
| Crowd/Scene? | Younger. Students and hipsters |
| Study or Socialize? | It was quiet. Study and work |
| Tea too? | Yep |
| Sidewalk seating? | Yes |
| Art? | Yes |
| Live Music? | Yes. Poetry readings too, M tells me. Oh M! |
| Anything else? | You know what? I'd say they're less coffee and more Beer or Wine and food, and that's not a bad thing . Might be nice to grab an adult beverage and park it on one of the couches. Happy hour 4-7 every day |
Big Mike's
Well M had to motor, but I did want to add Big Mike's to the inaugural lineup. Big Mike's is the newest venture of Mike Sutton. Located in the space his Voyager's Dream shop used to occupy, this coffee shop seems to be a going venture. You know I love recycling. And you know I love local (and independent) businesses, so I'm really happy to tell you about Big Mike's coffee.
| Where? | 1306 W. Hickory. Near Voertman's, at the edge of UNT campus |
| Open 24 hrs? | Yes |
| What did you drink? | A small half caf |
| Organic? | Organic, fairly traded, locally roasted coffees! |
| Kinds of cups | Styrofoam, but paper is coming... Mugs for in-house |
| Sugar/honey/raw? | Yes/Yes/ Yes/Yellow stuff/Pink stuff |
| Milk/cream/half&half? | I had to ask for whole milk, but the nice employee passed me his gallon jug, over the counter with no trouble. |
| Price | 12 oz of coffee for $1.28 |
| Yeah, yeah, but how does it taste?! | Wow! This was a really good cup of coffee. I got a 12 oz., half caf coffee (which turned out to be, the regular brew and some decaf Espresso Americano, "Decaf's not really popular around here.") To which I added a bit of raw sugar and whole milk and passed on the plastic lid. I finished that bad boy as I was browsing silly birthday cards from The Onion - at Voertman's. I have to say, my morning was much the better for it |
| Bring Your Own Cup Discount? | Yes. And you definitely want to, so you can give the Styrofoam cups a pass! Regular mugs for in-house drinking |
| Loyalty Card? | No |
| Food or Pastries? | Organic bagels! |
| WiFi? | Yes. And, it's secure. Ask a barista for the network key |
| Atmosphere? | A little grotty, honestly. Playing some interesting and dirty, lo-fi rock, when I was there. Like Hendrix joined Iron Butterfly. |
| Crowd/Scene? | Mac-toting students and hippies! |
| Study or Socialize? | Oh both, I'd say |
| Tea too? | Yes, locally crafted no less |
| Sidewalk seating? | No, but a bike rack! |
| Art? | Yes |
| Live Music? | No, but you're very likely to hear local artists being played |
| Anything else? | Smoothies, a free community meeting space, and twice-filtered water! |
March 15, 2010
Indians Push North. Pioneers, Eagles, Townies Welcome Them
I almost feel lazy starting this blog entry because I feel like I’ve already told you the good news about the Indian food at Kokila.
However, the fact that they did open a restaurant in Denton proper seems noteworthy-enough to write about – even if it’s just a short post.
In AP-style, I’ll open with (reiterate) the important part: Kokila-is-in-Denton-Now!
Located in Carriage Court (Avenue C and Eagle Dr) in the space formerly occupied by Siam House (which is now on Cedar St), Kokila re-designed, re-painted, re-tiled, and most importantly, brought in a steam table, to create their north-side restaurant. And, oh how happy I am.
This restaurant is smaller than their Lewisville location, and the buffet is similarly a bit smaller. However, it is also a bit cheaper and still offered every day for lunch.
The food, happily, is the same delicious and excellent quality. And, dosas are offered all week, albeit a la carte. Spend the extra buck and get this potato\onion\peas and carrots crepe. Almost every time I eat it – which is every time I’m there (which is about once a week) – I remark to the S.O. that, “I don’t know why I like these so much.”
I mean, you read that, right? Potato. Peas. Carrot. Onion.
Sounds like nothing, right?
I have to tell you, whatever spices they sprinkle in there push that mix to tasty, and adding any of the chutneys (the carrot pickle is my favorite) just amps up the toothsomeness. I’ve even been known to slip bits of chicken, goat or paneer in there too. You know, sort of making up my own little burrito?
It may not be standard Indian eating practice, but it IS delicious.
Of course the buffet changes daily, but you can usually expect to see that delish tandoori chicken (you know, the red, grilled stuff) pretty much every day.
And on a perfect Sunday, I'll sleep in late; drink coffee; read the paper, then head over to the buffet @ 11.
On a recent-ish Sunday, I even saw local musical talent and radio God, Paul Slavens! I loooove him.
Celeb sighting or not, I always leave ready to meet the end of my weekend with a full and happy belly.
And who doesn't love happy?
Check it out.
However, the fact that they did open a restaurant in Denton proper seems noteworthy-enough to write about – even if it’s just a short post.
In AP-style, I’ll open with (reiterate) the important part: Kokila-is-in-Denton-Now!
Located in Carriage Court (Avenue C and Eagle Dr) in the space formerly occupied by Siam House (which is now on Cedar St), Kokila re-designed, re-painted, re-tiled, and most importantly, brought in a steam table, to create their north-side restaurant. And, oh how happy I am.
This restaurant is smaller than their Lewisville location, and the buffet is similarly a bit smaller. However, it is also a bit cheaper and still offered every day for lunch.
The food, happily, is the same delicious and excellent quality. And, dosas are offered all week, albeit a la carte. Spend the extra buck and get this potato\onion\peas and carrots crepe. Almost every time I eat it – which is every time I’m there (which is about once a week) – I remark to the S.O. that, “I don’t know why I like these so much.”
I mean, you read that, right? Potato. Peas. Carrot. Onion.
Sounds like nothing, right?
I have to tell you, whatever spices they sprinkle in there push that mix to tasty, and adding any of the chutneys (the carrot pickle is my favorite) just amps up the toothsomeness. I’ve even been known to slip bits of chicken, goat or paneer in there too. You know, sort of making up my own little burrito?
It may not be standard Indian eating practice, but it IS delicious.
Of course the buffet changes daily, but you can usually expect to see that delish tandoori chicken (you know, the red, grilled stuff) pretty much every day.
And on a perfect Sunday, I'll sleep in late; drink coffee; read the paper, then head over to the buffet @ 11.
On a recent-ish Sunday, I even saw local musical talent and radio God, Paul Slavens! I loooove him.
Celeb sighting or not, I always leave ready to meet the end of my weekend with a full and happy belly.
And who doesn't love happy?
Check it out.
February 15, 2010
El Chico
Side note – What’s up with that Texas? I’m hearing that more and more. WHEN did sweet tea become an option? I mean, I grew up drinking sweet tea – NESTEA®, as a matter of fact – only in the summer – and believe me, the error of my former ways was brought home to me quickly, once I landed in the Lone Star State. So, I don’t get it. Belles and Dandies from Atlanta and Mobile drink it sweet, I know, but I always think of Texans as guys and gals who get it plain and add their own sugar or sweet n low, if they’re not tough enough to drink it straight.
How about the enchiladas? A recent visit saw your friendly neighborhood Dentonista getting down on some avocado enchiladas. Avocado, mushrooms, and cheese rolled up in corn tortillas, topped with tomatillo sauce and served up over sautéed spinach. Ooooh, they were gooood, y’all.
BUT, they were nowhere near as good as the chicken and spinach enchiladas I had on the previous visit.
Those enchiladas were a revelation.
Fajita chicken, spinach and cheese in corn tortillas and topped with a ‘chipotle wine sauce’. Whatever it was, it was rich and smoky and unlike anything I’ve ever eaten off an enchilada. I practically had to sit on my hands to keep from stuffing my face, two fist style.
It was so good I was practically meowing.
Uh huh. At a chain.
Now, to be fair, this is a Texas-based chain. In fact the first El Chico, the proto or Ur El Chico was a tamale stand at the Kaufman County Fair, in 1926.
And, as an added bonus to all that authenticity, both these enchilada meals were off some ‘new’ menu and only $7.99.
Yeah. $7.99.
But wait, there’s still more.
Check those coupon booklets you get in the Sunday paper. I got to use a buy one get one coupon for this meal. That’s right.
Cheap, delicious, local-ish. What’s not to love?
Well, one thing really. There’s still a smoking section in this little restaurant.
It’s at the very back of the restaurant. In fact, it’s on the ‘outside’ or ‘patio’ area, which is in-the-mall.
Yep.
Do you know where, exactly? Directly across from the kids’ play area!
Yeah.
The mall should be ashamed of itself.
El Chico corporate should be ashamed of themselves, and if you’re feeling particularly trashy, you can have a smoke while watching the kiddies play and be ashamed of yourself.
** 2011 Update! - El Chico no longer has a smoking section! I should delete the above paragraphs, but I really enjoyed my rant. So I won't.**
Everyone else - Keep your eyes peeled for coupon circulars, your mind open to good food at the sketchy mall, and try to sit towards the front of the restaurant.
January 31, 2010
Keiichi
I’m having a hard time writing about Keiichi, and I don’t know why. Located across from Charlie Beck’s Garage in the former Parkway Hair salon (you’d never know from the inside), it is, without question, the best place in Denton for sushi. In fact, it’s so good, it’s spawned rumors and legends. A girlfriend told me recently that on a plane ride back from Florida, a seat companion told her he'd heard about "... a sushi place in Denton where the Dallas sushi chefs go to eat.”
Well. If Dallas sushi chefs come here, it must be good, right? Sorry, does that sound a little like kid-sister aggravation, on behalf of my city? Maybe it is. Perhaps the point was: people are willing to make the drive north, all the way to Denton, to eat this sushi, and that I don’t doubt. It may be the best sushi in North Texas.
In fact, it’s already so well known, by word of mouth, its only Web presence is a plethora of reviews and a map - no Web site. And that doesn’t really matter, in this case, because the menu changes every day. The chef and owner, Keiichi Nagano, creates the daily menu based on the best of what fish he’s got and, weirdly enough, what few Italian dishes he feels like preparing. More on that later.
I read a few of these Web reviews and a couple stuck out for me, including the number of reviews from loyal regulars and the one review where the diner mentioned the chef never smiles. I wonder if that's what makes it hard for me to write about Keiichi? I have noticed that every time we’ve been, there are always some regulars who seem bent on letting everyone know (and reminding the chef) that they are regulars, and the chef rarely smiles at anyone who isn’t a regular. Perhaps it’s that in a place so small, you can’t help but interacting a little, and a friendly glance from the chef really goes so far in making you feel welcome and comfortable and relaxed, particularly about spending so much.
And you will spend a lot – Keiichi is not cheap.
Now, grimly focused chef or no, nothing can take away from the quality of this fish – that is something I DO know about.
On this, my third visit, the Significant Other (S.O.) and I enjoyed a repast of:
Spicy Tuna Roll – I know - kind of prosaic, right? What can I say? This is by far the S.O.’s favorite roll, and why wouldn’t we try it here? Not a disappointment. Noticeably better than even the good rolls we can get elsewhere.
Flounder and yellowfin sushi – I prefer the more tender tuna to the flounder, but grew up eating it (cooked) and just had to try it. When was the last time you saw fresh flounder in North Texas? Two pieces of sushi per each order.
Crab sushi – Nothing special really. Fresh, cold crab legs. I’d rather have them hot with butter. And in abundance. 2 pieces per order.
Grilled yellow tail collar
– Listed as an appetizer, it was served last. The chef did explain that it took time to, you know, cook, whereas the sushi could be prepared more quickly. No matter, it was worth the wait. Wow. Yellow tail collar is just what it sounds like, the grilled collar bones of a yellow tail tuna. I have no idea what it was marinated in, and I don’t care. It was some of the best cooked fish I’ve ever eaten. It was perfectly tender too, so we were able to pick those bones clean, using just our chopsticks. I may not be elegant with chopsticks, but I am effective. It was so good the S.O. kept saying, “What do you want next? What’s next?!” Greedy. After he calmed down and we both enjoyed this, I was inclined to agree we might try something else…
Beef tataki – Another wow. I’d never had this, nor even knew what it was (the menu is light on description), but we guessed it was something we saw the other folks at the bar order, so we rolled the bones and went for it. Turns out, it's ridiculously tender beef, seared on the outside, cool on the inside (like seared tuna), sliced and served up with sautéed spinach. I added a little of the fresh wasabi, rolled it up around some of that spinach and popped it in my mouth. Holy Moly. I had to throttle back so I didn’t scarf this all up in a minute.
Now, it’s a well known fact that the more you enjoy a meal as an experience, the more inclined you are to prolong it with dessert, coffee, drinks, etc. I love good coffee, but I’ve never been able to cap off a meal with it. I mean, I want dessert. The chef was offering some homemade sorbets that evening – orange, grapefruit, and pomegranate – and we were clever enough to ask for a sampler, which they delivered. Oh they were just ridiculously good.
Ooh! Before I close out my description of this meal, I want to tell what I drank – the sake flight! How cool is that? A Sake Flight! Perhaps you know something about sake, my dears, but I know nothing, other than that I like it. I’ve never had a sake I hated, but I’ve never done any sort of real sake sampling and comparing, so I was really pleased with this.
I should mention too, this is cold sake. I’ve been told that sake good enough to be served cold, is the better sake, whereas stuff served warm is warmed to maybe cover flaws in taste. Now, I have no idea if that’s true (and I’d love to hear from you, if you know - these folks have another take), but I do know that this sake was really good. I loved the little card that came with it, describing each of the 3 offerings, and loved how very different they did taste from each other. I think the middle offering was my favorite. The S.O. stuck to his usual – beer. In this case, a Sapporo.
On this visit, we also enjoyed sitting near a large Japanese family. (It was us and them at the bar.) The matriarch of this family struck up a conversation with us, based largely on her appreciation of Chef Nagano’s talent. She told us she followed him from restaurant to restaurant, and had driven down to Denton from Dallas, with her visiting children and grandchild, just so they could all eat his sushi and, that night, mushroom pasta. She also assured us he uses the best seaweed (you know, for the rolls) and that even in Japan, you’d have a hard time finding sushi this good. I admit, my sushi palate is nowhere near refined enough to discern subtle differences in dried seaweed, but I bow to her appreciative knowledge. We, in turn, impressed her by ordering the yellow tail collar, “You really do like Japanese food.” Seriously though, y’all, if you like even cooked fish, you would have loved that dish. Sometimes I think Asians think round eyes are food weenies. Or very unadventurous. Whatever.
Now I already mentioned that the chef prepares a daily menu of the finest and freshest. In addition to all the other touches of excellence, he uses real wasabi root. You'll know because he grates it right in front of you. In front of everyone, actually, Keiichi is a very small place.
The sushi bar, which takes up more than most of the restaurant, seats 10 and that’s it. There’s a small table tucked in a nook behind the front door, which seats 6, maybe 8 if you push it, but that’s reserved, obviously, for parties. Occasionally singles (and maybe a double) can get a seat at the actual bar, bar. But I think that only seats 4 or 6, and is usually used for waiting for your reserved seats. If you’re going to eat here, you’ll most likely be at the sushi bar.
All these qualifications and praise aside, if rolls are your thing, I would skip Keiichi. It is must be said, Keiichi is expensive. Not crazy so, but you know you have to order several things (and you’ll want to order plenty) to make a meal of sushi or sashimi. The meal I described above cost about $100, before tip. And, frankly, I think a meal of rolls might be a waste of this amazing quality fish. Of course, if you’ve toured all the roll joints in Denton, and you just have to come here for rolls, then do it. But never say I didn’t warn you.
I almost forgot, I promised to talk more about the Italian food. OK. If you read a few reviews or stalk him online (feel free to read this patronizing article), you’ll find he started out in the US cooking in Italian restaurants. Yeah; go know. Apparently, he developed a taste and affection for it too, and continues to offer a few dishes each night. Well why not? So really, a meal at Keiichi should be able to please everyone.
Tell me what you think.
Well. If Dallas sushi chefs come here, it must be good, right? Sorry, does that sound a little like kid-sister aggravation, on behalf of my city? Maybe it is. Perhaps the point was: people are willing to make the drive north, all the way to Denton, to eat this sushi, and that I don’t doubt. It may be the best sushi in North Texas.
In fact, it’s already so well known, by word of mouth, its only Web presence is a plethora of reviews and a map - no Web site. And that doesn’t really matter, in this case, because the menu changes every day. The chef and owner, Keiichi Nagano, creates the daily menu based on the best of what fish he’s got and, weirdly enough, what few Italian dishes he feels like preparing. More on that later.
I read a few of these Web reviews and a couple stuck out for me, including the number of reviews from loyal regulars and the one review where the diner mentioned the chef never smiles. I wonder if that's what makes it hard for me to write about Keiichi? I have noticed that every time we’ve been, there are always some regulars who seem bent on letting everyone know (and reminding the chef) that they are regulars, and the chef rarely smiles at anyone who isn’t a regular. Perhaps it’s that in a place so small, you can’t help but interacting a little, and a friendly glance from the chef really goes so far in making you feel welcome and comfortable and relaxed, particularly about spending so much.
And you will spend a lot – Keiichi is not cheap.
Now, grimly focused chef or no, nothing can take away from the quality of this fish – that is something I DO know about.
On this, my third visit, the Significant Other (S.O.) and I enjoyed a repast of:
– Listed as an appetizer, it was served last. The chef did explain that it took time to, you know, cook, whereas the sushi could be prepared more quickly. No matter, it was worth the wait. Wow. Yellow tail collar is just what it sounds like, the grilled collar bones of a yellow tail tuna. I have no idea what it was marinated in, and I don’t care. It was some of the best cooked fish I’ve ever eaten. It was perfectly tender too, so we were able to pick those bones clean, using just our chopsticks. I may not be elegant with chopsticks, but I am effective. It was so good the S.O. kept saying, “What do you want next? What’s next?!” Greedy. After he calmed down and we both enjoyed this, I was inclined to agree we might try something else…
Now, it’s a well known fact that the more you enjoy a meal as an experience, the more inclined you are to prolong it with dessert, coffee, drinks, etc. I love good coffee, but I’ve never been able to cap off a meal with it. I mean, I want dessert. The chef was offering some homemade sorbets that evening – orange, grapefruit, and pomegranate – and we were clever enough to ask for a sampler, which they delivered. Oh they were just ridiculously good.
Ooh! Before I close out my description of this meal, I want to tell what I drank – the sake flight! How cool is that? A Sake Flight! Perhaps you know something about sake, my dears, but I know nothing, other than that I like it. I’ve never had a sake I hated, but I’ve never done any sort of real sake sampling and comparing, so I was really pleased with this.
I should mention too, this is cold sake. I’ve been told that sake good enough to be served cold, is the better sake, whereas stuff served warm is warmed to maybe cover flaws in taste. Now, I have no idea if that’s true (and I’d love to hear from you, if you know - these folks have another take), but I do know that this sake was really good. I loved the little card that came with it, describing each of the 3 offerings, and loved how very different they did taste from each other. I think the middle offering was my favorite. The S.O. stuck to his usual – beer. In this case, a Sapporo. On this visit, we also enjoyed sitting near a large Japanese family. (It was us and them at the bar.) The matriarch of this family struck up a conversation with us, based largely on her appreciation of Chef Nagano’s talent. She told us she followed him from restaurant to restaurant, and had driven down to Denton from Dallas, with her visiting children and grandchild, just so they could all eat his sushi and, that night, mushroom pasta. She also assured us he uses the best seaweed (you know, for the rolls) and that even in Japan, you’d have a hard time finding sushi this good. I admit, my sushi palate is nowhere near refined enough to discern subtle differences in dried seaweed, but I bow to her appreciative knowledge. We, in turn, impressed her by ordering the yellow tail collar, “You really do like Japanese food.” Seriously though, y’all, if you like even cooked fish, you would have loved that dish. Sometimes I think Asians think round eyes are food weenies. Or very unadventurous. Whatever.
Now I already mentioned that the chef prepares a daily menu of the finest and freshest. In addition to all the other touches of excellence, he uses real wasabi root. You'll know because he grates it right in front of you. In front of everyone, actually, Keiichi is a very small place.
The sushi bar, which takes up more than most of the restaurant, seats 10 and that’s it. There’s a small table tucked in a nook behind the front door, which seats 6, maybe 8 if you push it, but that’s reserved, obviously, for parties. Occasionally singles (and maybe a double) can get a seat at the actual bar, bar. But I think that only seats 4 or 6, and is usually used for waiting for your reserved seats. If you’re going to eat here, you’ll most likely be at the sushi bar.
All these qualifications and praise aside, if rolls are your thing, I would skip Keiichi. It is must be said, Keiichi is expensive. Not crazy so, but you know you have to order several things (and you’ll want to order plenty) to make a meal of sushi or sashimi. The meal I described above cost about $100, before tip. And, frankly, I think a meal of rolls might be a waste of this amazing quality fish. Of course, if you’ve toured all the roll joints in Denton, and you just have to come here for rolls, then do it. But never say I didn’t warn you.
I almost forgot, I promised to talk more about the Italian food. OK. If you read a few reviews or stalk him online (feel free to read this patronizing article), you’ll find he started out in the US cooking in Italian restaurants. Yeah; go know. Apparently, he developed a taste and affection for it too, and continues to offer a few dishes each night. Well why not? So really, a meal at Keiichi should be able to please everyone.
Tell me what you think.
January 1, 2010
Winsome Winston-Salem, NC
Field Trip Alert!
Today kids, we’re talking about Winston-Salem, North Carolina. I can almost hear you saying, “What’s that got to do with Denton?!” Well, remember how DFW is one of the things that makes Denton so swell? Happily, you can get direct flights from DFW to Greensboro, NC (GSO), and from there travel over to Winston-Salem.
A better question might be, “Why Winston-Salem?” Well, I’ll tell you.
One of my sisters, a former Dentonista, made her circuitous route (via Syracuse and D.C.) there and put down roots. So now, after 10 plus years of being the home for the holidays, SHE (and her S.O.) hosted the family this year. So my S.O. and I and our other sister posse-d up there for the holidays. And y’all, you know how you dread having to get together with your family for enforced festivities? 
Well it’s not like that for us. We were all looking forward to it (maybe no one more than me, the former hostess), so we were all prepared to have a great time. I won’t bore you with the details of all our family traditions and frolicking, because that’s not something you can participate in. No matter how good a hostess my sister is, she’s not up for random Dentonites knocking on her door, but I WILL detail what’s good, fun, and tasty in Winston-Salem.
I will warn you now; I was totally lax in taking pictures - other than of our Christmas celebration.
Pathetic really. After each delicious meal, I’d think, “D’oh! I forgot to take pictures!” Although, I think we can both agree, my food photography could be described as ‘unappetizing’. In fact, if anyone can give me some advice, so my food looks more like this or this, PLEASE let me know.
Where to stay
Well, on our last trip there, we stayed at the Shaffner House Bed and Breakfast, and I can totally recommend it. Beautiful, historic home turned into a Victorian-style B&B, with excellent breakfasts.
On this trip, inspired by my sister’s previous success with Priceline, I cheaped out and bid. I got us booked at the downtown Marriott for $52 a night, y’all. I’m a convert now. Plus, you know the Marriotts all have those fluffy blankets and squashy mattresses? Oooh, like sleeping on a marshmallow covered in marshmallow fluff. Diviiine.
What to do
I don’t think any trip to W-S is complete without a trip to Reynolda House. In fact, with Hanes shutting down, I think that (and Wake Forest University, and Wachovia Bank) may be the economic strong holds in town; I could be wrong though.
Anyway. Never heard of Reynolda House? Don’t feel like the Lone Ranger. How about this – Reynolda House Museum of American Art displays a premier collection of American art ranging from the colonial period to the present. Built in 1917 by Katharine Smith Reynolds and her husband Richard Joshua Reynolds, founder of the R. J. Reynolds Tobacco Company, the house originally occupied the center of a 1,067-acre estate. It opened to the public as an institution dedicated to the arts and education in 1965, and as an art museum in 1967.
That’s right. I think the house it worth seeing, just to see how our tobacco barons lived. Can you say “personal pipe organ” kids? Yes. That’s correct. Well, in addition to the former occupants’ opulence, there’s all that art. Totally worth seeing.
Old Salem – OK, I have to mention Old Salem because it’s a big part of Winston-Salem and some people (including the resident sister – let’s call her “K”) love historic villages. The Other Sister, “J”, and I can’t believe it. J said, “Haven’t we seen every oldest house, library, civil and revolutionary war battle field, whatever in the US?!” I could add dusty county registrar’s offices too. How else did you look up the family tree before the Internet?
Yes my dears, those were our family vacations. Well apparently one of us did not regard them as the total rip-off they were. One of us became a total nerrrrrrrd. Might I add, K likes road trips too?!! Maybe she’s a changeling…
Ahem.
Now, all that said. Go check it out. There is something for everyone there, including a toy museum, which is fun for the kiddies and adults alike. I’m telling you, there were some creepy looking toys back in the day. I’m also partial to the Museum of Early Southern Decorative Arts. Enter your own Velvet Elvis joke here. Got that out of your system? Good. I admit I had plenty of fun with that myself, but there are so many really cool things there, you’ll stop looking for John Wayne clocks -with burnt edges - and really start digging it. I imagine once you see Winchester , the smiling ceramic lion, you’ll fall in love. Don’t worry; there are soft, stuffed Winchesters to take home available in the gift shop. And, if you’ve never been to one of these historic villages, you will stand around with your mouth hanging open wondering how a family of 11 could live in a house the size of your bedroom or your living room, at the largest.
Downtown - I mentioned the Marriott was downtown, right? Even if you're not staying there, you will want to come down, park, and walk around. There are shops, galleries, food (K recommends the Mellow Mushroom) and pretty much everything else you'd want from a little walk around a nice little city - including old architecture and a farmer's market.
Drive Around - Winston-Salem is a much older city than Denton, and it shows in the beautiful and diverse architecture. Check it out.
Where to eat
6th & Vine – I like to think of this downtown restaurant as a smaller, less pricey Hannah’s. The food is that good, the wine list that extensive, and there’s even original art on the walls. Did I mention, it’s even in walking distance from the Marriott? Oh, and Sundays? Half price wine. Yeah. This go around we met up for Sunday brunch, and I can tell you the Crabcake Benedict is not to be missed.
The Old Fourth Street Filling Station – Not cheap, but not budget busting for two on vacation and so lovely, especially if you can sit outside. I got the Small Bites special (3 for $19) and was not the least bit disappointed (or hungry). I honestly can’t remember what the rest of our party had, but I DO recall they were all pleased. Plus, it's always cheaper at lunch...
West End Café - Oh this is the perfect place for lunch. With daily soup, sandwich, and dessert specials on top of their already extensive, homemade menu, you will find something you want to eat. And, it’s one of those places that work whether it’s hot or cold outside. Oh! And if you have to wait a few (and you might) you’ll want to be outside, so you can observe the koi pond.
Simplyummy – The out-of-towners gave our hostess and host a break, and met up here for breakfast one day. Oh man, am I glad we did! Located in the tiny, former blacksmith’s shop at Reynolda Village, they had an extensive, delicious, and cheap breakfast menu. I’m talking 3 eggs with your choice of bacon, sausage, or turkey sausage, toast, and fruit or grits for $6. Yeah. $6. (Next time, I’ll get the fruit; the grits were bland.) Of course, because I’m used to getting everything (and exactly what) I want when I eat out (have been since I was a kid), I also had a latte (luke warm) and the NYC cheese biscuit with cream cheese (not to be missed).
Brixx Wood Fired Pizza – Have you noticed how wood fired pizzas are all the rage now? I for one am quite pleased about this, and was very happy when K suggested we grab dinner here one night. Not only do they have an extensive beer list, they offer beer flights! Aside - I LOVE flights. Beer, wine, sake, champagne, tapas, whatever it is, if I get to sample many things vs. one, I’m so very satisfied. And, their pizzas were incredible. I really enjoyed K’s grilled vegetable pizza. When does that ever happen? I don’t know what they did to those vegetables, but even I was digging the broccoli (ack) and green peppers (ick). In fact, I think I’ll order the veggie next time around - it was the best one on the table!
In closing, I will say that this is obviously a small fraction of what you can enjoy in Winston-Salem, and doesn't even touch the surrounding areas. However, I can guarantee, you can have some fun if you find yourself over that way. And, if you've been and want to mention what you enjoyed there, I'd love to hear from you.
Today kids, we’re talking about Winston-Salem, North Carolina. I can almost hear you saying, “What’s that got to do with Denton?!” Well, remember how DFW is one of the things that makes Denton so swell? Happily, you can get direct flights from DFW to Greensboro, NC (GSO), and from there travel over to Winston-Salem.
A better question might be, “Why Winston-Salem?” Well, I’ll tell you.
One of my sisters, a former Dentonista, made her circuitous route (via Syracuse and D.C.) there and put down roots. So now, after 10 plus years of being the home for the holidays, SHE (and her S.O.) hosted the family this year. So my S.O. and I and our other sister posse-d up there for the holidays. And y’all, you know how you dread having to get together with your family for enforced festivities? 
Well it’s not like that for us. We were all looking forward to it (maybe no one more than me, the former hostess), so we were all prepared to have a great time. I won’t bore you with the details of all our family traditions and frolicking, because that’s not something you can participate in. No matter how good a hostess my sister is, she’s not up for random Dentonites knocking on her door, but I WILL detail what’s good, fun, and tasty in Winston-Salem.I will warn you now; I was totally lax in taking pictures - other than of our Christmas celebration.
Pathetic really. After each delicious meal, I’d think, “D’oh! I forgot to take pictures!” Although, I think we can both agree, my food photography could be described as ‘unappetizing’. In fact, if anyone can give me some advice, so my food looks more like this or this, PLEASE let me know.Where to stay
Well, on our last trip there, we stayed at the Shaffner House Bed and Breakfast, and I can totally recommend it. Beautiful, historic home turned into a Victorian-style B&B, with excellent breakfasts.
On this trip, inspired by my sister’s previous success with Priceline, I cheaped out and bid. I got us booked at the downtown Marriott for $52 a night, y’all. I’m a convert now. Plus, you know the Marriotts all have those fluffy blankets and squashy mattresses? Oooh, like sleeping on a marshmallow covered in marshmallow fluff. Diviiine.
What to do
I don’t think any trip to W-S is complete without a trip to Reynolda House. In fact, with Hanes shutting down, I think that (and Wake Forest University, and Wachovia Bank) may be the economic strong holds in town; I could be wrong though.
Anyway. Never heard of Reynolda House? Don’t feel like the Lone Ranger. How about this – Reynolda House Museum of American Art displays a premier collection of American art ranging from the colonial period to the present. Built in 1917 by Katharine Smith Reynolds and her husband Richard Joshua Reynolds, founder of the R. J. Reynolds Tobacco Company, the house originally occupied the center of a 1,067-acre estate. It opened to the public as an institution dedicated to the arts and education in 1965, and as an art museum in 1967.
That’s right. I think the house it worth seeing, just to see how our tobacco barons lived. Can you say “personal pipe organ” kids? Yes. That’s correct. Well, in addition to the former occupants’ opulence, there’s all that art. Totally worth seeing.
Old Salem – OK, I have to mention Old Salem because it’s a big part of Winston-Salem and some people (including the resident sister – let’s call her “K”) love historic villages. The Other Sister, “J”, and I can’t believe it. J said, “Haven’t we seen every oldest house, library, civil and revolutionary war battle field, whatever in the US?!” I could add dusty county registrar’s offices too. How else did you look up the family tree before the Internet?
Yes my dears, those were our family vacations. Well apparently one of us did not regard them as the total rip-off they were. One of us became a total nerrrrrrrd. Might I add, K likes road trips too?!! Maybe she’s a changeling…
Ahem.
Now, all that said. Go check it out. There is something for everyone there, including a toy museum, which is fun for the kiddies and adults alike. I’m telling you, there were some creepy looking toys back in the day. I’m also partial to the Museum of Early Southern Decorative Arts. Enter your own Velvet Elvis joke here. Got that out of your system? Good. I admit I had plenty of fun with that myself, but there are so many really cool things there, you’ll stop looking for John Wayne clocks -with burnt edges - and really start digging it. I imagine once you see Winchester , the smiling ceramic lion, you’ll fall in love. Don’t worry; there are soft, stuffed Winchesters to take home available in the gift shop. And, if you’ve never been to one of these historic villages, you will stand around with your mouth hanging open wondering how a family of 11 could live in a house the size of your bedroom or your living room, at the largest.
Downtown - I mentioned the Marriott was downtown, right? Even if you're not staying there, you will want to come down, park, and walk around. There are shops, galleries, food (K recommends the Mellow Mushroom) and pretty much everything else you'd want from a little walk around a nice little city - including old architecture and a farmer's market.
Drive Around - Winston-Salem is a much older city than Denton, and it shows in the beautiful and diverse architecture. Check it out.
Where to eat
6th & Vine – I like to think of this downtown restaurant as a smaller, less pricey Hannah’s. The food is that good, the wine list that extensive, and there’s even original art on the walls. Did I mention, it’s even in walking distance from the Marriott? Oh, and Sundays? Half price wine. Yeah. This go around we met up for Sunday brunch, and I can tell you the Crabcake Benedict is not to be missed.
The Old Fourth Street Filling Station – Not cheap, but not budget busting for two on vacation and so lovely, especially if you can sit outside. I got the Small Bites special (3 for $19) and was not the least bit disappointed (or hungry). I honestly can’t remember what the rest of our party had, but I DO recall they were all pleased. Plus, it's always cheaper at lunch...
West End Café - Oh this is the perfect place for lunch. With daily soup, sandwich, and dessert specials on top of their already extensive, homemade menu, you will find something you want to eat. And, it’s one of those places that work whether it’s hot or cold outside. Oh! And if you have to wait a few (and you might) you’ll want to be outside, so you can observe the koi pond.
Simplyummy – The out-of-towners gave our hostess and host a break, and met up here for breakfast one day. Oh man, am I glad we did! Located in the tiny, former blacksmith’s shop at Reynolda Village, they had an extensive, delicious, and cheap breakfast menu. I’m talking 3 eggs with your choice of bacon, sausage, or turkey sausage, toast, and fruit or grits for $6. Yeah. $6. (Next time, I’ll get the fruit; the grits were bland.) Of course, because I’m used to getting everything (and exactly what) I want when I eat out (have been since I was a kid), I also had a latte (luke warm) and the NYC cheese biscuit with cream cheese (not to be missed).
Brixx Wood Fired Pizza – Have you noticed how wood fired pizzas are all the rage now? I for one am quite pleased about this, and was very happy when K suggested we grab dinner here one night. Not only do they have an extensive beer list, they offer beer flights! Aside - I LOVE flights. Beer, wine, sake, champagne, tapas, whatever it is, if I get to sample many things vs. one, I’m so very satisfied. And, their pizzas were incredible. I really enjoyed K’s grilled vegetable pizza. When does that ever happen? I don’t know what they did to those vegetables, but even I was digging the broccoli (ack) and green peppers (ick). In fact, I think I’ll order the veggie next time around - it was the best one on the table!
In closing, I will say that this is obviously a small fraction of what you can enjoy in Winston-Salem, and doesn't even touch the surrounding areas. However, I can guarantee, you can have some fun if you find yourself over that way. And, if you've been and want to mention what you enjoyed there, I'd love to hear from you.
December 8, 2009
Charitable Donations
It's that time of year...
Now we all know we can make charitable donations any time for any reason. And if you regularly schlep your gently worn but clean clothes to a local thrift store (I like the Friends of the Family one on University that benefits our women's shelter) or are a supporting member of KERA, more power to you.
If you're like many of us and you do your giving all at once, and right around this time, let me please run down just a few of the excellent non-profits who are helping our community.
In no particular order:
Our Daily Bread
A true community organization that gets its support from individuals, church partners, business and community groups. They provide a daily meal in a safe environment for all who are hungry, as well as physical and emotional support for the needy people of Denton County, including transients and especially the homeless.
And they would love your help.
You can make donations of food or new, warm clothing (sweatshirts, hats, scarves, gloves) at their location 300 West Oak Street. (That’s the basement kitchen of St Andrew Presbyterian, y’all.) M-F 9:00a- 1:00p. Ask for Liz, Rick or James.
You can also donate online.
Get your donation to this non-profit in before Dec 31 and you get to claim it on your income tax. You get to help the truly needy and maybe get a kick back from Uncle Sam. Everybody wins.
Denton Humane Society
Oh lord do I wish all our local charities were big enough/organized enough to accept online donations.
But they don’t. Yet.
On the other hand, that in no way diminishes the work they do. And the folks at our local branch of the Humane society operate on a shoe string. A frayed shoe string, which is a crying shame, considering all the good they do for our stray feline and canine residents. They also help residents of the homo sapiens variety make life-long love connections. I got two amazing kittens from them, who grew up to be the cats of destiny. Turned my S.O. into the cat man he was always meant to be, and gave up shots of pure love on a regular basis.
If you’re ready for a pet, contact them. If you just want to help some innocent animals who – let’s be honest – can’t help themselves, contact them.
And check it out, if you just set up your Kroger card , you can help them every time you shop. Come on, that’s the least we can do.
Want to do more and mail a check or money order?
DENTON HUMANE SOCIETY
P.O. Box 1972
Denton, TX 76202-1972
Call 940.382.7387 with any questions.
UNT Feral Cat Rescue Group
Did you know that people come to Denton, go to school, adopt adorable kittens and then abandon them when they leave?
Shocking, right?
It makes me sick, but it’s true. Those people couldn't suck more.
But, the good folks at the UNT Feral Cat Rescue Group have taken an active, almost guerrilla approach to this problem. Practicing the Trap, Neuter and Return method, they will trap local feral strays, have them spayed or neutered and return them to their neighborhood haunts. In addition, they have feeders set up around the UNT campus to feed some of these poor animals. Their goal is simply to stop the cycle of strays begetting more strays, but their site also provides resources and referrals to other area rescue groups.
Again, all donations tax-deductible.
Mail to:
UNT Feral Cat Rescue Group
PO Box 310475
Denton, TX 76203
Call Dallas Newell - 940.390.0555 with any questions.
You can also use GoodSearch or shop with iGive to benefit this excellent organization.
Cumberland Presbyterian Children’s Home
Do you know there is a residential facility for neglected and abused children right here in Denton?
“CPCH is a licensed General Residential Operation through the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services that protects children and teens ages 5-17 who, for various reasons, cannot live with their families.”
Pretty grim statement, right? Only imagine how grim the lives of these children were before they came to CPCH.
I guess you can figure that they need your help. Happily, you can even donate on line! A first!
Never forget you can donate your time here too. Some volunteer gigs don’t even require a long-term commitment. There are a bunch of children you could help out, right here in town. Want to learn more? Go to the Web site or call 940.382.5112
The Local Kiwanis
Want to know why? Read this blog post from July.
If you already know why, the Kiwanis assure me they accept donations all year long at:
Denton Area Kiwanis
1001 N. Elm St.
Denton, Texas 76201
940-387-6323
Now we all know we can make charitable donations any time for any reason. And if you regularly schlep your gently worn but clean clothes to a local thrift store (I like the Friends of the Family one on University that benefits our women's shelter) or are a supporting member of KERA, more power to you.
If you're like many of us and you do your giving all at once, and right around this time, let me please run down just a few of the excellent non-profits who are helping our community.
In no particular order:
Our Daily Bread
A true community organization that gets its support from individuals, church partners, business and community groups. They provide a daily meal in a safe environment for all who are hungry, as well as physical and emotional support for the needy people of Denton County, including transients and especially the homeless.
And they would love your help.
You can make donations of food or new, warm clothing (sweatshirts, hats, scarves, gloves) at their location 300 West Oak Street. (That’s the basement kitchen of St Andrew Presbyterian, y’all.) M-F 9:00a- 1:00p. Ask for Liz, Rick or James.
You can also donate online.
Get your donation to this non-profit in before Dec 31 and you get to claim it on your income tax. You get to help the truly needy and maybe get a kick back from Uncle Sam. Everybody wins.
Denton Humane Society
Oh lord do I wish all our local charities were big enough/organized enough to accept online donations.
But they don’t. Yet.
On the other hand, that in no way diminishes the work they do. And the folks at our local branch of the Humane society operate on a shoe string. A frayed shoe string, which is a crying shame, considering all the good they do for our stray feline and canine residents. They also help residents of the homo sapiens variety make life-long love connections. I got two amazing kittens from them, who grew up to be the cats of destiny. Turned my S.O. into the cat man he was always meant to be, and gave up shots of pure love on a regular basis.
If you’re ready for a pet, contact them. If you just want to help some innocent animals who – let’s be honest – can’t help themselves, contact them.
And check it out, if you just set up your Kroger card , you can help them every time you shop. Come on, that’s the least we can do.
Want to do more and mail a check or money order?
DENTON HUMANE SOCIETY
P.O. Box 1972
Denton, TX 76202-1972
Call 940.382.7387 with any questions.
UNT Feral Cat Rescue Group
Did you know that people come to Denton, go to school, adopt adorable kittens and then abandon them when they leave?
Shocking, right?
It makes me sick, but it’s true. Those people couldn't suck more.
But, the good folks at the UNT Feral Cat Rescue Group have taken an active, almost guerrilla approach to this problem. Practicing the Trap, Neuter and Return method, they will trap local feral strays, have them spayed or neutered and return them to their neighborhood haunts. In addition, they have feeders set up around the UNT campus to feed some of these poor animals. Their goal is simply to stop the cycle of strays begetting more strays, but their site also provides resources and referrals to other area rescue groups.
Again, all donations tax-deductible.
Mail to:
UNT Feral Cat Rescue Group
PO Box 310475
Denton, TX 76203
Call Dallas Newell - 940.390.0555 with any questions.
You can also use GoodSearch or shop with iGive to benefit this excellent organization.
Cumberland Presbyterian Children’s Home
Do you know there is a residential facility for neglected and abused children right here in Denton?
“CPCH is a licensed General Residential Operation through the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services that protects children and teens ages 5-17 who, for various reasons, cannot live with their families.”
Pretty grim statement, right? Only imagine how grim the lives of these children were before they came to CPCH.
I guess you can figure that they need your help. Happily, you can even donate on line! A first!
Never forget you can donate your time here too. Some volunteer gigs don’t even require a long-term commitment. There are a bunch of children you could help out, right here in town. Want to learn more? Go to the Web site or call 940.382.5112
The Local Kiwanis
Want to know why? Read this blog post from July.
If you already know why, the Kiwanis assure me they accept donations all year long at:
Denton Area Kiwanis
1001 N. Elm St.
Denton, Texas 76201
940-387-6323
December 6, 2009
Atomic Christmas
This month, and I hope in time for the holidays, I bring you some more artsy crafters. I don't know anything about them - other than they keep their lawn retiree-neat year round, and for the last 11 years - at least - they've offered up these awesome holiday light configurations.And I say "holiday" consciously. I don't care if you don't put up a tree and Christmas isn't your thing; it's my opinion that everyone can enjoy decorating their houses with greens and lights. That harkens back to a muuuch older tradition.
Stepping off of her soap box, your friendly neighborhood Dentonista asks, "You recognize these lights, right?"
They aren't just holiday lights - these are pieces of classic Americana. Made in the traditional fashion, from roughly a squajillion Solo cups, you need to see them to fully appreciate the clever craftsmanship - my crummy pictures certainly don't do them justice. (I hate this camera.)
And you can see them, at the corner of Panhandle and Fulton streets.
You know what else I like about them? Their fresh, contemporary appeal.
As you know, mid-century modern style is all the rage right now (here, here, here), and I can think of nothing more atomic-chic than these Sputnik-y lights.
And you know what? You can take one (or several) home!
That's right. For just $20 you can own your very own bit of hand-crafted holiday kitsch.
Even if you're not lucky enough to live in an atomic ranch, (and I know they're tough, though not impossible, to come by in Denton), these lights are so classic, they'll go with everything. If you live in one of the gazillion post-war 'grannies' (check out the Panhandle, Egan, Congress streets area, right around this house), these lights are even architecturally appropriate.
So drive by and check them out, or call 940.387.1480 to grab some of these awesome lights. I have the feeling that when they're gone, they're gone for the year.
Oh, and have a very happy holiday season and a safe and lovely New Year, my dears.
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