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I have been to big Island Bowls 4 times now and I have a few observations. The first. The food and smoothies are really terrific and I have not comsume anything that has not been excellent. I usually ask the person helping me what they recommend and I have not been steered wrong yet. The second. In the four times I’ve been here I have not been helped by the same person twice. Oddly enough it has been the same day of the week and not the same two people. One thing that worries me is turn over. I have not been steered wrong yet, but when talking with the folks behind the counter they don’t seem super happy. I hope this is not the case. I like the food a lot but if the owners are not taking care of them I can’t support the business. The third. I had heard of something called ‘Jack Fruit’ (not to be confused with Jack Wagon), but had never tasted it… On my first visit to Big Island Bowls the young lady helping me recommended it as being incredible. To be honest I was kinda afraid to try it based on the description, but she told me it was terrific so, I forged ahead and gave it a shot. Ok, let me say this – I am not a vegetarian and I love meat, but this was every bit as good as meat. In fact, I saved half of the bowl to allow 4 other confirmed carnivores I know to try it. Now all 4 have called me from big island bowls to tell me they are eating Jack fruit from there again, but I better never tell anyone (since I didn’t mention their names I think I have fulfilled my promise). The forth. I have now told seven people how much I like big island bowls and all seven have tried it and agree it really is terrific. The other day I was there for a business meeting. Yes I chose the location… I arrived early and asked for something small and simple. Yet another different person behind the counter recommended a smoothie. I chose coconut, but they recommended a passion fruit smoothie (I don’t like passion fruit – at all!) I told her I don’t like passion fruit!!! She said, I still recommend it. So, I tried it trusting her. I was not disappointed, it was also terrific. I don’t know what was different, but i devoured the whole thing. So I will stop second guessing the food and smoothies and just order what’s recommended. I would give this 5 out of 5 stars, but the place has a weird feel. It is either build on a Native American burial ground, or the owners are not creating a great environment. I’m not sure what it is, just feels weird to me. Each time I’ve been in there something is off. The two people working are always nice and friendly, but they don’t seem happy. So, 4 out of five stars it is. Of note: if it happens to have been build on a Native American burial mound…. close shop and return it to nature ?

South Block Menu with Prices 106 N Lee St, Alexandria

I am new to the area and parking is a pain. But I believe there was also an event going on so maybe that’s why. I parked in a paid parking lot and walked over to South Block. Its pretty big inside with lots of tables. Great for large parties if they wanted to visit. They have a nice full menu going on with acai bowls, smoothies, coffee, toast, and toasted baguette. You guys don’t know this but I have an extreme sweet tooth and I LOVE SMOOTHIES/ACAI BOWLS. If there was good ones around where I live, I’d be in big trouble. If South Block came near me, I’d be in big trouble. You stand in line and order at the register. Then you walk to the side and wait for them to call your name/order out. I ordered their Strawberry Passion smoothie and a PBJ Acai Bowl. Both came out pretty fast. I had to get the PBJ Bowl .. cause I love peanut butter … and this met my expectations! The last time I had a good PBJ Acai Bowl is in ATL … this bowl had organic acai, banana, blueberry, almond milk, topped with granola, blueberries, bananas and I added strawberries. It’s a decent sized bowl for ONE person, I’d recommend sharing! All the fruit taste fresh and good ~ it wasn’t too sweet. The Strawberry Passion was also not TOO sweet and it didn’t feel like I was gulping up sugar (like other places ..) – this smoothie was super refreshing (especially on a hot day). Passion Fruit Smoothie: Passion fruit juice, strawberries, bananas, non-fat raspberry sorbet. Both so very good! I am impressed with South Block! My new favorite smoothie/Acai place! I definitely want to try their other flavors!

La Flor De La Michoacana – Menu with Prices – 514 S Smith Ave, Corona

–LOCATION– Big Plaza that’s next to a Jack N the Box (but that’s not in the plaza per se). La Flor de Michoacan is located in the left corner of the plaza. Look for the bubble gum pink wall. –PARKING– Plenty, lot shared with plaza –SEATING– A couple seats here and there. You can grab something and sit. It doesn’t seem like it ever really gets packed. –MENU– there’s ice cream and popsicles. I came for the homemade popsicles! Flavors that I remember: +vanilla +strawberry +Strawberry and cream +cookie monster +passion fruit kiwi +mango +coconut +hibiscus +papaya? +pineapple +guava? +chamango They have water based and milk based flavors. All the popsicles are chunky and vibrantly hued. You literally see the fruit chunks in your popsicle. Water based popsicles: $2 Milk based popiscles: $2.50 *25 cents extra if you pay with card I got the Passion Fruit Kiwi water based popsicle. I really, really liked it and it was incredibly refreshing for a VERY HOT day. –SERVICE– Nice lady. She listed every flavor she had in the freezer for me. I didn’t see a list of flavors, but they should consider making one for people like me lol –OVERALL– Great stuff and flavors. I’d consider this a hole-in-the-wall type place. It’s a gem.

Boba Le Tea Cafe – Menu with Prices – 1396 B Forest Avenue Right behind Cricket Wireless, Staten Island

Finally a Boba Tea place closer to me!!! Boba Le Tea Cafe is up the one way on Burnside off of Forest Ave, right on the side. I’ve been there twice before, the first time having the Brown Sugar Black Tea with Boba, and this time I tried their signature Jumbo Fruit Le Tea. Usually I always get the milk teas (highly recommend the BSB Tea) but this time I was recommend their house drink and I’m not disappointed! Huge pieces of all different fruit (orange, grapefruit, kiwi, strawberries, apple, watermelon, passion fruit) and I added the mango popping pearls so good! I highly recommend and next time I’ll have to try their poke bowls!

Anzo – Boca Raton Menu with Prices 20642 FL-7, Boca Raton

So happy to find this place. I am a huge fan of Build-a-bowl restaurants, and I’ve been clamoring for one to open up near me. Well, I couldn’t have found one any closer! Even better, the cuisine is Mediterranean. That’s the interesting part about these BaB restaurants, the concept is the same (pick your base, add your proteins, toppings and sauces), but each one offers a unique touch to the actual food offered. One of the first things that stands out at Anzo is the atmosphere. It’s very spacious, with light colors that create a calming and inviting ambiance. There’s ample seating and even a little loungy area in front, perfect for eating an Acai bowl or having a refreshing drink. Speaking of Acai bowls, yes, this Mediterranean joint doesn’t only build savory bowls…they have a designated section by the entrance where they build power bowls with either an Acai, Greek Yogurt, Rice Pudding or Overnight Oatmeal base. A very smart and well thought out addition to a place that already caters to healthy eating. Although I didn’t try any, their drinks looked quite appealing due to their unique flavors. There were 3 fresh self-serve ones: Carrot/ginger lemonade, Watermelon lemonade, and Almond milk tea. Between the drinks, the savory bowls, the sweeter power bowls, and the lounge, Anzo truly has made it so where they offer enough to keep you in there longer than you anticipated, or at least for a quick repeat visit!

Martin Henry Espresso – Menu with Prices – 3121 S 38th St, Tacoma

The barista was very helpful when it came down to picking what to order. I knew I wanted the Red Bull Sunshine just didn’t know what flavor to get. She told me this one guy always gets the flavors grapefruit, passion fruit, and guava all in one drink. I was skeptical at first and she saw my hesitation and was like “I got so many hooked on it, and if you don’t like it then I’ll make you another drink”. In that case I agreed. I got the drink and man was it the best, I thought the flavors wouldn’t work out together but I was so wrong. She asked me how I liked it and I said I loved it. If you don’t know what flavors to get , ask for a Red Bull Sunshine with the flavors: grapefruit, guava, and passion fruit seriously the best. I forgot to take a photo when I got because it was that good!! Sorry oppps

Grandy’s Restaurant Irving – Menu with Prices – 2815 N Belt Line Rd, Irving

I went to Grandy’s and had chicken fried steak. It was excellent. I wanted to thank Grandy. They told me Grandy does not work there. They even told me they don’t know Grandy and never met Grandy. Something is up with that. Go into this place and ask for G randy. They will tell you Grandy has never been there. It drives them Crazy. It’s like going to Jack in the box and asking for Jack. I did that once and a black guy came to the counter and did not look like Jack. But I met Jack and he is a black guy. Cool dude. He gave me some French fries of tater tots. It may have been curley-q’s. No it was French fries. I remember now they were so hot that they burnt my tongue. I walked around for 15 days with an imprint of a French frie on my tongue. I guess that’s what a real French kiss is like. Lol

Chicago Beef and Dog Company – Menu with Prices – 5402 E Washington St, Indianapolis

Second review Our third time going, and I can tell my review was taken seriously. I appreciate you all for the effort you put into my meal and service today. Yes, we did joke about the ketchup on a hot dog thing again, but today was a different energy all together. Our Food was great as usual and today I got a jumbo create your own and it was amazing. The onions were chopped the cheese added to the bottom and over all amazing. We also ate at the restaurant which is highly recommended if you’re ordering fries. In our case, we ordered cheese fries and they were amazing! Thank you team for a fantastic meal and service today. First review This is now the second time I’ve eaten at this place and overall the food is good. What brings this rating down a little is the customer service. The first time I went I thought it was strange when I created my order, the gentleman kept questioning every ingredient I asked to include. I understand his passion for the brand. However, it feels like you’re being interrogated over a hot dog. The second time I decided to see if it was just me and asked my boyfriend to go order. He experienced the same person, and the same situation. Who tells a customer (my boyfriend) “you don’t put ketchup on a hot dog.” Well guess what, we do. I dislike when restaurants or any place of service stops their customers from having it their own way. I mean, who puts a “build your own” option on their menu and then questions how their customers build their f. I won’t discontinue eating here, but this is a deterrent for sure

Kaia Bowls – Acai Bowls, Pitaya Bowls, Poke Bowls – Menu with Prices – 483 Mandalay Ave Suite 107, Clearwater

First Impression Post! I am always in favor of trying new things, especially when it comes to our local Beach businesses. Support the little guys, people! … Now that I’ve stepped off my soapbox, let’s get down to business. I’ve only ordered the Poké Bowls so far, so if you’re a sushi fan then keep on reading. Once I’ve tasted their other bowls, this review will be updated. SERVICE: 5* The girls behind the counter are super nice and informative, giving me detailed information about the different bowls they have and how you can order. I also had the pleasure of meeting the owners – both of whom are incredibly sincere, have a good head on their shoulders, and just want to help people make sounder nutrition decisions. QUALITY: 5* If you’re looking to get away from your typical beach/bar/fried/grilled dishes, this is your place. Brighten up your taste palette with fresh ingredients that you can watch the girls make right in front of you. – Poke Bowls: apikai fresh salmon bowl and the kilauea shrimp bowl, and it was enough to last for two meals! I usually ask for half rice, half greens to portion out my carb intake. There is also a build-your-own version in case you don’t want certain ingredients in your meal. – Acai Bowls: Hono lulu if you’re feeling like sweets and chocolate without all the guilt. VALUE: 5* With tip, I’ve left the restaurant at about $15.00 per meal. If you manage to contain yourself and save the rest for another meal, you’re looking at $7.50 per meal. Although it may seem pricey, you’re looking at beach prices here. But if you want to leave with a happy, pleasantly full belly without regret, I think it’s worth it. CLEANLINESS: 5* There are never any unpleasant odors, always fresh and appealing scents! Floors and surfaces are always clean, and their working station remains tidy as well. I mean, they make your meal right before your eyes so it’s a great way to determine cleanliness. I hope this modern little quick casual earns its permanent place on the beach!

Jack?s Fusion Sushi – Menu with Prices – 427 E 17th St, Costa Mesa

Me and my two kids were still on our mission to find the best sushi in Costa Mesa/Newport area, specifically near 17th Street. A friend had recommended Jack’s Fusion Sushi but after several let downs with other sushi restaurants on this street I waited awhile. I wish I hadn’t waited so long! We went tonight and Jack’s Fusion Sushi is by far the BEST SUSHI RESTAURANT in this area and I have tried 6+. The food here exceeded even the high end sushi restaurants! Their menu had more variety than I’ve seen at any other restaurant. The flavor was terrific! I am very particular with my sushi and must have good flavors, not just the sushi itself but sauces, condiments, salads, soups, etc. we ordered the rainbow crunch roll, crunch roll, and Costa Mesa roll. We also got a house salad (the ginger dressing was amazing!!), miso soup, and baked green muscles. They also provided edamame to start our meal on the house. I will not go anywhere else, this one is it! My two daughters also agreed with me! They have a great special pricing on their rolls, they also had Happy Hour specials when we walked in. Our server Claire was so sweet with a very kind smile. She was very attentive and offered prompt service! This place isn’t huge inside but plenty of room with a sushi bar. It’s a bit hidden from the street unfortunately, I had to look for the shopping center sign where the business name blends in with the others. It’s in the same shopping area as America’s Cup Yogurt. You can order through Yelp, Grub Hub, and Door Dash I believe. We will definitely be back!

J-Petal & Poke MO – Menu with Prices – 114 S 9th St #101, Columbia

Sorry, but this is a work in progress and my guess it won’t go far. 4 of us visited on a Tuesday evening and the place was otherwise empty. There was one employee who took the order and prepared the food. It took 40 minutes for everyone to get their food. Perhaps this is what they mean by poke. The savory crepes were tricky to eat, and you had to get about halfway through them before there was any flavor, and then not much except some salad dressing. The bowls at least had some sauce. Perhaps the build-your-own bowls would fare better. In both cases, the ingredients were fresh, but, other than the warm rice in the bowls, the food was ICE COLD. VERY EXPENSIVE for the quantity of protein, but decent amount of veggies. Avoid until they can figure out how to serve warm dishes.

Starry Moon Menu with Prices 8001 Wyoming Blvd NE Suite B-7, Albuquerque

Our first time here and it was a very pleasant experience! Best way to describe is if your grandma opened up a boba tea shop, and put nothing but love into her drinks, this is the place to be! This store is locally owned by husband and wife, and she was very nice! Right when we walked in we were welcomed, and given a nice tour of their menu. If you have any questions then don’t be shy to ask! The owner is very friendly and knowledgable. We had ordered the “house milk tea with boba” and the “fresh fruit cup” under the “fruit tea” section. Both drinks were delicious and you can taste that they brew their teas fresh, and you ain’t going to expect no powder based wannabe drinks. I also added “mango cubes” to my fruit cup drink. Side note: the add on’s are not on the main menu or paper menu, but located on a little wooden board near the cash register where you order. They are also an additional 50 cents per topping. I might reconsider getting the mango cubes with the fruit cup next time, because the fruit cup drink has a lot of fresh fruits in the drink (depending on what they have). Today the drink had kiwis, oranges, and dragon fruit, and the base of the drink was a passion fruit tea. It was difficult to catch the mango cubes because it would just float to the top, and the other fruits would just get stuck at the end of the straw! Overall, a great experience! We loved the interior, it was very open and airy. The decorations had personality and you could tell the owners put their own twist in it. We will be back.

The Capital Candy Jar – Menu with Prices – 201 15th St NE, Washington

Cute candy and ice cream shop on Captiol Hill. They distribute both through wholesale and at their brick and mortar I visited today with my friend. They have a vast selection of chocolates and candy they make from scratch right within their shop. Also, when you look at the cooler, you will see that they have different types of root beers as well. These root beers are from all over the United States. That had a special today going on where if you buy 4 root beers, it would only cost $10. Typically I wouldn’t partake in such thing because I think that’s a little steep, but my friend and I did so, and we were happy to do so. Today they were having a $1.50 on all scoops where they distribute both Jenny’s Ice Cream and Ice Cream Jubilee. I prefer Ice Cream Jubilee any day and was happy to have some of their passion fruit guava sorbet as my treat. My friend went for the blueberry swirl and passion fruit guava sorbet himself. For his mom, he ordered the bourbon banana ice cream. Outside they have a patio seating with several umbrellas over them. It was a beautiful day today so we decided to eat outside. There is no seating inside. This is definitely a place for you come and grab your ice cream and go. Chocolates range from as little as $3 to $22. My homemade peanut butter cup was $4. It was extremely yum, but totally worth it. Absolutely delicious and happy to devour while waiting in the long line. The owner is super nice. He said he started making candy when he was 14. Needless to say he’s got a good product going. Bring the kids and friends. Enjoy an honest sweet treat with reasonable prices for the area.