I like food, and the opportunity to try a lot of new food as part of this trip is a true bonus for me. In a brief departure from the regular blog content, I wanted to highlight some of the excellent things I have eaten over the past couple of weeks in the US. (If only to justify any potential increase in my waistline.) In chronological order of consumption:
- Hotel Bel Air, LA: Saffron Campanella ‘Casio e Pepe’ Pasta (Just amazing pasta, with Maine lobster and black pepper)
- Voyager Café, Mojave: B-17 Sandwich (I have eaten some great sandwiches on this trip, but the space-themed diner at Mojave Spaceport is well worth a mention – pictured above)
- Wool Growers Restaurant, Bakersfield: Oxtail Stew (Fun fact: There is a relatively large Basque population in and around Bakersfield, dating back to when Basque sheep farmers emigrated to the region. )
- World Famous Hotboys Chicken, Sacramento: Chicken Sando (Exceptional fried chicken sando)
- Terry Black’s BBQ: Assorted BBQ (An Austin institution, and it’s easy to see why it’s held up as some of the best BBQ in Texas)
- Tia Juanita’s Fish Camp, Port Arthur: Crawfish (Minimum 3lb serve)
- Xochi, Houston: Helado de Elote (An entire dessert made from corn. Don’t question it.)
I also can’t help but comment on a couple of perhaps stereotypical aspects of US dining:
- The portions are off the charts large. Taking your leftovers to go is common (and often necessary!)
- I was blown away by the sheer volume of plastic used, and the prevalence of disposable plates, cups and cutlery
- The customer service was generally exceptional. Maybe it’s the fact that tipping forms such a material part of a person’s income – but the hospitality of those working in the hospitality industry was notable
Also, some honourable (?) mentions to:
- Strawberries and cream flavoured Dr Pepper
- Trump Burger, Bellville
Now, to sample the culinary delights of the UK!
Really. !!!!!! 😂