Dining out in Syracuse, NY

First let me say that there are a bevy of wonderful restaurants in the Syracuse area. In my opinion, Armory Square should be renamed "Smorgasboard Square". Not just because I love alliteration, but when I'm faced with the choice of where to dine I just want a little of everything (this is why I love tapas).

So, when I made the hour long drive from Ithaca to Syracuse with my gastronomic partner in crime, naturally we perused the new seasonal menus. After waiting at another restaurant for a table, we decided that the truffled mac and cheese at another restaurant was our beacon of hope. I called to check for availability, reserved a table and shouted "Tally Hoooo". Okay, so I didn't actually say that, but I needed to add the drama to express what was to come as a major disappointment.

Picture it: Syracuse, May 2011. SU graduation. Fixed menu. No mention of said fixed menu. Fast forward to two famished people having to settle and pay for overpriced, less than mediocre food. The Horror. The pouting.

I will not name this restaurant, since I have faith that they will deliver again the deliciousness that once was.

Here's hoping.

Our contribution to the Independence Day Festivities

Well, I guess this would be considered this blog's first official post.

So, we were invited to a last minute 4th BBQ. Not really having anything else in mind (or in the fridge) to bring, we decided to bring a little roughage to this meat-n-potatoes bunch.

First, there was the salad. Spring Mix, to be exact. I would post a picture, but 1) the salad is all gone and 2) I assume you know what Spring Mix looks like.

Next, I found the fresh cherries!

Then, the liquid in which to macerate them was selected.

After about half an hour, I added extra virgin olive oil, hickory smoked salt and cracked pepper to make a simple vinaigrette. 

Then, I toasted some slivered almonds.

And finally, since everything is better with cheese, a Parmesan, Reggiano, Asiago blend was tossed in with the almonds.

Sadly, I wasn't able to get a picture of the final product. The salad went quickly, so, therefore this blog post bittersweetly incomplete. To make up for it, though, I'll say that I totally felt like the Witches of Eastwick (yes, all of them) whilst munching on cherries.

I hope everyone had a happy and safe 4th! I certainly got my Independence on! ;)

Until next time....