I rarely cook any type of fish at home, unless I’m entertaining, because my kids don’t like any of it. But I spied this super simple recipe for teriyaki salmon recently and decided to make it anyway, haters be damned. It seriously took less than fifteen minutes to make and was delicious served over steamed rice. Swipe left for the recipe - I made it as written but subbed Japanese cooking wine for the sake because I googled for a substitute while standing in the Asian grocery store because I was too cheap to buy sake for one recipe that I may or may not love. The cooking wine was listed as an acceptable substitute and it seemed to do the trick! Oh! And I also removed the skin. If you like salmon, save this recipe when you want a simple and healthy way to make it.
“If you can’t control your woman, you’ve fou “If you can’t control your woman, you’ve found a good one.” I told someone last week that I feel pretty much like a plant … needs plenty of sunshine and fresh air, occasional watering and feeding, and a steady stream of kind words. It’s not really that complicated. 💛
Truth be told, these are my favorite types of meal Truth be told, these are my favorite types of meals… platters where you can just pick at them while sipping wine and catching up with a friend. Chances are, if you come over for a meal, you’re getting an assortment of things to nosh on, maybe a mix of homemade appetizers… but just an array of deliciousness you can snack on whilst enjoying the evening. 

I’ve been wanting to make a lox platter for awhile now, so here we are. I sprinkled some Everything But the Bagel seasoning onto smoked lox and then added sliced cucumbers and radishes to the platter along with sliced bialys and crackers. Dipping items are a must so I included hummus and tzatziki. A fun platter just to nibble from, but a bialys sandwich with everything stuffed in it was pretty perfect too. Hope that gave you a little bit of inspo for something you can easily whip up too!
I had planned another type of post tonight, but in I had planned another type of post tonight, but in light of today’s news, it just doesn’t feel right. Some days it can be hard to find the sunshine, especially a day like today. I can’t make sense as to why things like today continue to happen while people spend copious amounts of energy worrying about banning books and drag shows. Make it make sense. Just make it fucking make sense. It doesn’t. You can’t. Until it does, use your voice. Show up to meetings. Sign the petitions. Text ACT to 644-33 to get involved (I did). Be so loud that you can’t be ignored, until things change. Thirteen school shootings this year. When is enough, enough?
Weekend photos in review, old school edition. Cont Weekend photos in review, old school edition.
Context: 1) Lola has zero chill in the car, 2) fulfilling request for Chicken Parm Penne with Vodka Sauce, 3) Sunday vibes 4) my favorite porchetta sandwich 5) from @butlerandtheboard 6) affirmations, 7) the sun was out today
Just like the moon, you’re whole no matter what Just like the moon, you’re whole no matter what phase you’re in. ✨ Got this one back in September and it’s one of my favorites. I sometimes forget it’s there until I get a random flash of it.
Happy #NationalPuppyDay to these two. I used to ca Happy #NationalPuppyDay to these two. I used to call Clifford an asshat, because he basically was. But there’s a new asshat in town… 🙄 Clifford is now a freaking rockstar. His tumor and age have slowed him down a LOT and he virtually never misbehaves, and we are seriously so proud of him. Lola, on the other hand, is still full blown PUPPY. Tonight I’m assembling a gate to replace the wooden one she ate through. 😂 Berners love wood and she is OBSESSED with being in the kitchen. So one new metal gate coming right up as soon as I can figure out how to put it together.
Last week when I met the owners of the new French Last week when I met the owners of the new French bakery in town, I told them how happy I was that they were opening … because now I had an endless source for gifts for my mom’s future birthdays and Christmases. She was born in Paris and we’ve grown up with a healthy appreciation for French things … starting with their pastries and baguettes, but so much more. My daughter took her first trip to Paris last year and thoroughly enjoyed the croissants there and she deemed the ones at @chocolatinenj just as perfect. No surprise there since the owner is a French pastry chef! If you’re local and haven’t been, do make a point to stop in and visit. They’re open Wednesday through Sunday and have a wide selection of sweet and savory items and a few French retail selections as well. We’ve tried the macarons, the Croque Monsieur, the croissants, the tomato tarts, the baguette … basically we’re working our way through their display case in due time. Don’t miss this one - enjoy!
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Sweetnicks

Food and Life

Review: Red Robin

February 9, 2011 · Narrative

InsideJust as the kids and I fell into reviewing various pizza joints in the area (more coming soon!), my friend Beth and I have fallen into scoping out the best burger joints in our fair state.  We already have the next spot picked out for the end of the month.  Last year, when I saw there was a Red Robin opening up nearby, we made plans to give it a whirl and see how it stood up against a few of the other places we have tried (smashburger and Bobby Burger Palace are recent examples).  Her husband Roger decided to come with … all the more opportunities to try more of the menu!

We all ordered different burgers (I went with their Bleu Ribbon Burger, Roger ordered the Whiskey River BBQ Burger and Beth I think went with the Patty Melt?), and added the towering stack of onion rings, along with their Chili Chili Con Queso Dip with Nachos.  I really wanted to try their cupcakes just to make sure I wasn’t missing anything, but Beth scoffed at the idea.

Cupcake Tent CardThe service was ridiculous.  In a mostly good way.  They checked up on us so many times that night that Roger actually politely asked the waitress to stop coming back.  “Really, we’re fine.  I promise.”

My burger arrives and I could barely find the bleu cheese on it.  Beth’s order was all wrong, and Roger’s had nary a hint of BBQ.  Two out of three went back. Their menu (and wait staff) boasts over 20 versions of “gourmet burgers,” making the decision that much harder.  We all agreed, though, that the burger itself had little to no seasoning, and they are relying instead on all the toppings.  It might have something to do with the fact that the restaurant has its own seasoning.  If they’re relying on their seasoning to up the flavor, then they should mention it at some point.  They don’t.  Were they the best burgers ever?  No.  Not bad though.

House SeasoningTowering Onion RingsThe onion rings?  Delicious.  I’m very picky about onion rings and hate ingesting the fat and calories unless they’re stupendous.  These were crispy and huge, coming with two dipping sauces.  The Queso dip was thick and cheesy and, well, I’m not picky when it comes to melted cheese.  You all know that already.  The chips were crispy, warm and salty, just the way we like them.  I could have made a meal just from the appetizers.
Queso

I went back a few weeks later with the kids because after a recent snowstorm we had some serious cabin fever.  The mall (and Red Robin) was a welcome respite.

Both kids had shakes, super thick.  And although I ordered one cupcake this time, I hate to admit it, but Beth was right.  I knew she would be, but was hoping to prove her wrong nonetheless.  Skip them.  Trust me.  And Beth.  I did the research for you.  Madeline wouldn’t even eat it.

CupcakesOn our second visit, I got the Royal Red Robin Burger, one that a friend swears is the best thing ever.  Topped with an egg, it was definitely better than my bleu cheese burger, but it was the same theory getting played out.  It was better because of the toppings.  The meat alone?  Tasteless.  Any great burger starts with lightly but well-seasoned meat.

Red Robin Royal BurgerColoringWould we go back?  Sure.  It’s a fun place that is kid-friendly, but my mouth is not watering based on talking about the dishes we had during our last two visits.  And to me, that’s a sure sign that we need to go back.  Right away.

Cheesin' It UpThank goodness these games guarantee a winner every time, because you know I couldn’t get out of there with the kids not having given it a try.

Crazy GirlShe asked me to take her picture in the bathroom. And then when I showed her, she decided it wasn’t good enough.

PoserThis one was Madeline-approved.

Project 365
February 9, 2011, Photo #39

Happy MorningI swear my dashboard isn’t that dusty. Started the day freezing. Ending it much of the same. But I hear a heat wave is on the way for next week … 47 degrees for Valentine’s Day. Color me happy.

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Posted In: Narrative · Tagged: Bobby's Burger Palace, Red Robin, smashburger

Comments

  1. claire says

    February 9, 2011 at 11:06 pm

    I’ve never had Red Robin but then I don’t eat burgers often…last time was May! Glad you’re going to get some “warm” weather! ;-)

    Reply
  2. Anna says

    February 10, 2011 at 2:12 am

    Their turkey burgers are much better than the beef. If you return, try the Royal Red Robin with turkey. :)

    Reply
  3. Joanne says

    February 10, 2011 at 7:16 am

    I’ve heard of Red Robin but there are none in all of NYC…for some reason I thought they were a fast food joint (more like McD’s). It’s too bad the burgers weren’t the ULTIMATE that they could be. Although it seems like the onion rings were! Yum.

    Just wanted to let you know, I tried my first Zumba class yesterday and LOVED IT. Thanks for the inspiration!

    Reply
  4. The Sister In-Law says

    February 10, 2011 at 7:58 am

    The b/f and I recently had dinner at Zinburger on Rt.3. Worth the try, I loved the burger andthe truffle fries, yummy!!!

    SIL

    Reply
  5. Kris #40 says

    February 10, 2011 at 8:23 am

    Best burger of all time is the breakfast burger at Jefferson diner. Meat, egg, cheese. Hubby gets this every time we go

    Reply
  6. Kris #40 says

    February 10, 2011 at 8:26 am

    I’ll add another comment. Wasn’t impressed with mall red robin. The one on route 3 was much better.
    Although I did see smashburger and the new Cups yogurt place yesterday. So if I go for burgers that way, it will be smashburger

    Reply
  7. paula says

    February 10, 2011 at 9:59 am

    We go to Red Robin at least once a year as part of our annual Hersheypark Candylane outing – they have one next door by the outlets. So, that’s the appeal for us – the tradition. I’ve always enjoyed whatever I’ve eaten there but I agree that the actual burgers are not anything special. Hey, if they were, who would need all those toppings? I usually get the Pot Roast Burger which isn’t really a burger.

    I did get really sick once after eating the fish sandwich there. It was delicious and there didn’t seem to be anything wrong with it but I spent the night on the bathroom floor drenched in sweat. I had eaten a lot of other crap that day and I was pregnant so I can’t say it was the fish sandwich that made me sick but I don’t think I will ever feel like ordering it again.

    Reply
  8. Ramona says

    February 10, 2011 at 1:02 pm

    Mine is. The car is for turning key, pressing petal and go. Sometimes go fast.

    Reply
  9. Meg says

    February 10, 2011 at 4:29 pm

    Our Red Robin is always hoppin’ — and yes, the onion rings are deliciously good! I actually never get burgers there . . . I’m not much of a hamburger girl. I absolutely love their wraps, though, and the BLTA — bacon, lettuce, tomato and avocado on a soft, buttery croissant. Highly recommend!

    Reply
  10. Terri says

    February 11, 2011 at 10:45 am

    OMG…I have to agree with Anna about the turkey burgers. I love all things spicy and got the Burnin Love Burger but with the Turkey patty and skipped the salsa…just thinking about it has my mouth watering, it was sooo good!

    Reply

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I rarely cook any type of fish at home, unless I’m entertaining, because my kids don’t like any of it. But I spied this super simple recipe for teriyaki salmon recently and decided to make it anyway, haters be damned. It seriously took less than fifteen minutes to make and was delicious served over steamed rice. Swipe left for the recipe - I made it as written but subbed Japanese cooking wine for the sake because I googled for a substitute while standing in the Asian grocery store because I was too cheap to buy sake for one recipe that I may or may not love. The cooking wine was listed as an acceptable substitute and it seemed to do the trick! Oh! And I also removed the skin. If you like salmon, save this recipe when you want a simple and healthy way to make it.
“If you can’t control your woman, you’ve fou “If you can’t control your woman, you’ve found a good one.” I told someone last week that I feel pretty much like a plant … needs plenty of sunshine and fresh air, occasional watering and feeding, and a steady stream of kind words. It’s not really that complicated. 💛
Truth be told, these are my favorite types of meal Truth be told, these are my favorite types of meals… platters where you can just pick at them while sipping wine and catching up with a friend. Chances are, if you come over for a meal, you’re getting an assortment of things to nosh on, maybe a mix of homemade appetizers… but just an array of deliciousness you can snack on whilst enjoying the evening. 

I’ve been wanting to make a lox platter for awhile now, so here we are. I sprinkled some Everything But the Bagel seasoning onto smoked lox and then added sliced cucumbers and radishes to the platter along with sliced bialys and crackers. Dipping items are a must so I included hummus and tzatziki. A fun platter just to nibble from, but a bialys sandwich with everything stuffed in it was pretty perfect too. Hope that gave you a little bit of inspo for something you can easily whip up too!
I had planned another type of post tonight, but in I had planned another type of post tonight, but in light of today’s news, it just doesn’t feel right. Some days it can be hard to find the sunshine, especially a day like today. I can’t make sense as to why things like today continue to happen while people spend copious amounts of energy worrying about banning books and drag shows. Make it make sense. Just make it fucking make sense. It doesn’t. You can’t. Until it does, use your voice. Show up to meetings. Sign the petitions. Text ACT to 644-33 to get involved (I did). Be so loud that you can’t be ignored, until things change. Thirteen school shootings this year. When is enough, enough?

Pinterest

I rarely cook any type of fish at home, unless I’m entertaining, because my kids don’t like any of it. But I spied this super simple recipe for teriyaki salmon recently and decided to make it anyway, haters be damned. It seriously took less than fifteen minutes to make and was delicious served over steamed rice. Swipe left for the recipe - I made it as written but subbed Japanese cooking wine for the sake because I googled for a substitute while standing in the Asian grocery store because I was too cheap to buy sake for one recipe that I may or may not love. The cooking wine was listed as an acceptable substitute and it seemed to do the trick! Oh! And I also removed the skin. If you like salmon, save this recipe when you want a simple and healthy way to make it.
“If you can’t control your woman, you’ve fou “If you can’t control your woman, you’ve found a good one.” I told someone last week that I feel pretty much like a plant … needs plenty of sunshine and fresh air, occasional watering and feeding, and a steady stream of kind words. It’s not really that complicated. 💛
Truth be told, these are my favorite types of meal Truth be told, these are my favorite types of meals… platters where you can just pick at them while sipping wine and catching up with a friend. Chances are, if you come over for a meal, you’re getting an assortment of things to nosh on, maybe a mix of homemade appetizers… but just an array of deliciousness you can snack on whilst enjoying the evening. 

I’ve been wanting to make a lox platter for awhile now, so here we are. I sprinkled some Everything But the Bagel seasoning onto smoked lox and then added sliced cucumbers and radishes to the platter along with sliced bialys and crackers. Dipping items are a must so I included hummus and tzatziki. A fun platter just to nibble from, but a bialys sandwich with everything stuffed in it was pretty perfect too. Hope that gave you a little bit of inspo for something you can easily whip up too!
I had planned another type of post tonight, but in I had planned another type of post tonight, but in light of today’s news, it just doesn’t feel right. Some days it can be hard to find the sunshine, especially a day like today. I can’t make sense as to why things like today continue to happen while people spend copious amounts of energy worrying about banning books and drag shows. Make it make sense. Just make it fucking make sense. It doesn’t. You can’t. Until it does, use your voice. Show up to meetings. Sign the petitions. Text ACT to 644-33 to get involved (I did). Be so loud that you can’t be ignored, until things change. Thirteen school shootings this year. When is enough, enough?
Weekend photos in review, old school edition. Cont Weekend photos in review, old school edition.
Context: 1) Lola has zero chill in the car, 2) fulfilling request for Chicken Parm Penne with Vodka Sauce, 3) Sunday vibes 4) my favorite porchetta sandwich 5) from @butlerandtheboard 6) affirmations, 7) the sun was out today
Just like the moon, you’re whole no matter what Just like the moon, you’re whole no matter what phase you’re in. ✨ Got this one back in September and it’s one of my favorites. I sometimes forget it’s there until I get a random flash of it.
Happy #NationalPuppyDay to these two. I used to ca Happy #NationalPuppyDay to these two. I used to call Clifford an asshat, because he basically was. But there’s a new asshat in town… 🙄 Clifford is now a freaking rockstar. His tumor and age have slowed him down a LOT and he virtually never misbehaves, and we are seriously so proud of him. Lola, on the other hand, is still full blown PUPPY. Tonight I’m assembling a gate to replace the wooden one she ate through. 😂 Berners love wood and she is OBSESSED with being in the kitchen. So one new metal gate coming right up as soon as I can figure out how to put it together.
Last week when I met the owners of the new French Last week when I met the owners of the new French bakery in town, I told them how happy I was that they were opening … because now I had an endless source for gifts for my mom’s future birthdays and Christmases. She was born in Paris and we’ve grown up with a healthy appreciation for French things … starting with their pastries and baguettes, but so much more. My daughter took her first trip to Paris last year and thoroughly enjoyed the croissants there and she deemed the ones at @chocolatinenj just as perfect. No surprise there since the owner is a French pastry chef! If you’re local and haven’t been, do make a point to stop in and visit. They’re open Wednesday through Sunday and have a wide selection of sweet and savory items and a few French retail selections as well. We’ve tried the macarons, the Croque Monsieur, the croissants, the tomato tarts, the baguette … basically we’re working our way through their display case in due time. Don’t miss this one - enjoy!

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