------------------------------------------------------------------------- A r o u n d B o s t o n A continuing discussion about Restaurants in the Boston Area Featuring Restaurant Reviews and weekly commentary by Boston restaurant reviewer " Z " Brought to you by Channel 1 (tm) 617-354-8873 -------------------------------------------------------------------- 35,000 files 120 Conferences 9600 HST, MIC, v3.2 and Hayes lines Issue Number 1 1.17.90 through 3.15.90 Start to message 232 -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Date: 01-17-90(21:39)Number: 104 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: 'Z' Read: YES (Has Replies) Subj: HELLO THERE Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE "Z" "Z" DINER'S REPORT BY A DINERS FOR A DINER! ----------------------------------------------------------------- High prices, barely tolerable quality and the attitude "you're lucky to be here", that in my opinion sums up the Food & Beverage industry in the 80's... Now the 90's, the dawn of a new decade and countdown to a birth of a new century... Will we continue to be bombarded by inferiority? Endure the feelings of frustration and disappointment without the means to ventilate our hostilities? The answers to the questions are NO !! My goal in writing reviews is to promote interaction between us, the consumers. I want your opinion and suggestions about places that you dined, good and bad. I want your opinion and suggestions about what I wrote, good or bad. If you had a truly bad experience use me as a sounding board. I will print your experience, personally speak to the owner/mgr and report back actions taken and/or not taken to everyone who reads this column. Then I will leave it up to you, the consumer to decide if an establishment is good enough for your patronage. WE WILL NOT ACCEPT MEDIOCRITY WHEN IT COMES TO OUR HARD EARNED MONEY AND THE WAY WE SPEND IT. This column is dedicated to your concerns and questions, your opinions and thoughts regarding the food and beverage industry. I will use my resources the best I can to answer your questions honestly and correctly. I will agree or disagree with you. This will be a living and growing forum. On the lighter side, I will start a dining club, once a month when there is enough interest. We will decide on an establishment, dine there and together we will write a review for a future column. The most powerful tool known to human kind is the tool of communication. This is the tool that we will use to encourage patronage to qualified restaurants. The tool we will use to tell owners to either shape up or get the Hell out of business. Until the next time we meet Chow mien ! "Z" Date: 01-17-90 (21:40) Number: 105 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: 'Z' Read: (N/A) Subj: A LITTLE BIT ABOUT MYSELF Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE A brief history about myself, I grew up in Hyde Park, N.Y. (The home of the Culinary Institute of America). My career started as a pot washer, prep cook and short order cook. (The School of Hard Knocks). Most of my jobs were involved in the Food and Beverage Industry. I moved to San Francisco in 1980- 1985. There, I worked as a sous chef, waiter, assistant manager, manager at an Oyster and Champagne Bar. I also did free lance work for the Metropolitan Club, an exclusive club for women. I moved to Boston in 1986. I worked at Christopher's in Cambridge as a manager for two years and free lanced with Captain Clambake and Catered Occasions. (Catered occasions was subcontracted to do the Statue of Liberty celebration). I also worked for the Boston Park Plaza as a host for the Cafe Rouge. My last job was at the Ritz Carlton, Boston. I worked there for two years, leaving as a Food and Beverage Controller. I am now in the process of starting my own business. I feel my experience allows me to critique a restaurant with two sets of eyes. The first being with the knowledge of how an operation should work, knowing the job descriptions of employees, understanding the basics of food service. My other set of eyes allows me the to view and enjoy an establishment from a consumer's point of view. Combined, it allows me the ability to write a rounded, impartial review. My goal is to write a trustworthy commentary. I balance price to quality. I am a stickler for service. When I say service, I mean the basics: a staff that smiles and enjoys their profession; one that accepts the fact that the customer is always right no matter how wrong the customer may actually be. Simple as these basics sound, many restaurants have a service deficiency. I'm not going to concern myself with the high priced, already established places such as Legal Seafood, Locke Ober's, Maison Robert.(These type of restaurants are traditional or special occasion places, a once a year type of an event). People generally already have a good idea of the reputation, service etc. I would concentrate on the smaller, off the beaten path restaurants. I would also be available to do requests. For special editions, I would like to do a brunch report, the best breakfast report, the best home style cooking, etc. I look forward to hearing from you. Sincerely yours, 'Z' Date: 01-17-90 (21:41) Number: 106 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: 'Z' Read: (N/A) Subj: THE STOCKYARD Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE "Z" "Z" DINER'S REPORT BY A DINER, FOR A DINER! STOCKYARD Open: Mon-Sat. Cash,Amex, 135 Market st 11:00 am-12:00 am Mastercard/Visa Brighton, Mass accepted. 02134 ----------------------------------------------------------------- A fair price, superb and professional service, consistent food quality, all seasoned into twenty years of experience and you have Brighton's own Stockyard restaurant. The Stockyard has been voted unanimously by me... as my favorite family owned, Good Old American Beef and Potato dining emporium. The Stockyard is spacious with lots of dining room. It is easy to forget that you are dining in a public restaurant. Unlike it's neighbor in Allston, Sports Depot. The Stockyard is geared to family gatherings, business meetings, romantic dinners for two or a quiet assembly of friends. Stockyard's menu will never win awards for innovation. It consists of the basics. Appetizers: Clam Chowder, Cup $1.75 Bowl $2.50; Shrimp Cocktail $6.95; Chicken Wings $4.95 and others. Entr‚es, largely, beef and seafood; with the traditional Surf and Turf, Land and Sea combinations. The foundation of their menu is unfailing quality and hearty portions. The times I dined there, I had the "Princess cut" Prime rib about 14 oz, bone in. $12.95. For those of us who tend to be macho, Don't be fooled by the intimidating name, it's plenty. The "Size cut" Prime rib is 15.95, the most expensive price on my menu. Both portions as well as most of the entr‚es come with or come with a combination of: a fresh, crisp, cool Garden salad. Choice of potato or rice. and a fresh baked loaf of bread. I don't recommend ordering an appetizer, the accompaniments with the entr‚es will be plenty, with left overs to boot. If you are looking for nouveau cuisine and purple sauces, the Stockyard is not your place. If you're looking for a hearty atmosphere, traditional food done right, a place where you're not embarrassed to ask for a doggy bag, then The Stockyard is your dining establishment. Date: 01-17-90 (21:42) Number: 107 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: 'Z' Read: YES (Has Replies) Subj: MING GARDEN Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE "Z" "Z"DINER'S REPORT BY A DINER, FOR A DINER! MING GARDEN Opens daily 11:30am - 11:00pm Cash, Amex, 1262 Boylston St. All you can eat buffet dinner Mastercard & Chestnut Hill, Ma, Sun, Mon, Tues, and Wed. Visa accepted. 02167 Adults, $11.95, Children under 12, $6.95 ----------------------------------------------------------------- There are two types of ethnic restaurants: One that offers a menu that is authentic; a true representation of the culture which they claim. And one which represents what they feel Americans believe represents the culture they claim. The ethnic group that falls into this quandary repeatedly is the Asian community, specifically the Chinese community. Through this metamorphosis the Chinese restaurant has evolved into Szechuan, Mandarin, Cantonese styles to name a few. We can't forget Japanese, Vietnamese, Korean, Thai and a relative new comer Polynesian. So to review an ethnic restaurant you must first determine whether they are Amer-ethnic (you heard it here first) or ethnic. Remember, Amer-ethnic is a term that I use to describe a style of American revised ethnic cooking. It is not meant to be inferred as inferior. Remember American influence in foreign cuisine has turned an Italian dish, from a thin bread, flavored with oil and salt to what we all enjoy today as pizza. Ming Garden is classified by my definition, amer-ethnic. Anyone who is thinking about opening a restaurant should first dine at Ming Garden for a lesson in proper service. The service is professional and friendly, The waitstaff are where they're supposed to be, when they're supposed to be. Food is brought to the table covered and steaming hot. And never has a waiter not identify what he is serving, while he is serving it. Over all, a standard that should be replicated. The restaurant itself is clean. The seating is o.k. You could end up in a small section where the tables are uncomfortably close. The menu claims Mandarin and Szechuan cuisines. For appetizer, we had Pan Fried Ravioli (6) $4.25 a little bit oily. Other app's include Egg Rolls $3.75, B.B.Q. Boneless Spareribs $5.95 and Chicken Fingers $5.25. We also had Hot and Sour soup, a dish that is done well at its worst. It also can be the best I ever had. The negative, no consistency. For entr‚es we had Moo Shi Pork $6.95 the dish was o.k. ONE VERY BIG NEG, they charged extra for the Bean Paste sauce. To me, that is like getting one chopstick and getting charged for the use of the other. We also had Curry Chicken, we used to get curry duck but they took it off the menu. One of my favorite dishes at Ming Garden is Bean Curd, Szechuan Style w/meat $6.50 They offer a buffet (See above for times and days offered) In my opinion, $11.95 is too much. My overview: the food is plentiful, reasonably priced and well-prepared. Vegetables are done just right. They keep their colors and revitalize any plate they accompany. The food is never unsatisfactory, only occaisionally does a dish really entice the taste buds. The service makes up for the lack of consistency in the food. Over all. Catch a movie, then walk over to Ming Garden and have a good time. you won't be disappointed. Chow mein !! Date: 01-18-90 (23:23) Number: 108 To: 'Z' Refer#: 104 From: FRED HAPGOOD Read: NO Subj: HELLO THERE Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE NE: Congratulations on your enterprise. It will take time to develop a community of restauranteurs -- is that the word? -- here, but the right person could make it happen. How come you're not using your name? --- ž EZ 1.24 ž Date: 01-19-90 (13:59) Number: 109 To: 'Z' Refer#: NONE From: ERIC NEWHOUSE Read: NO Subj: Boston Restaurants Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Dear 'Z', Thank you for your detailed and informative restaurant critiques. As a relative newcomer to Boston myself (I've been here 2 years), I am still looking for fine restaurants. I have a few requests for you, if you're still taking requests. Should you choose to use them, they could keep you busy for a while: 1. Review a favorite, or best restaurant for the following ethic categories (AmerEthnic included): Chinese, Italian, Japanese, Thai, Mexican, Indian, and European. Although I occasionally wonder whether a new restaurant that I see is any good, what I am always looking for is an exceptional restaurant, no matter where it's located and to some degree no matter what the price. 2. Include as a standard bit of information in reviews whether the restaurant in question has a full bar. Some people want to know. 3. Include very basic directions in the description (ie. right off 128 in whereever, or right off park st. T stop, etc). 4. I personally am interested in restaurants in or very close to Harrvard Square, since I live right next to the Lars Anderson bridge. There are a bunch of indian restaurants on Mass Ave. right around there, as well as a few other interesting restaurants. I've tried the Border Cafe, Bertucci's, Pizzeria Uno's, Bangkok House, Chef Chow's, Yen Ching, and a few other restaurants in the area, and would be curious to hear how you rated them. I hear central square has some great restaurants too. 5. Usually I don't eat out except when with someone of the fairer sex. Atmosphere is an important part of any restuarant, so I humbly request to you address that in your reviews. All in all, you're doing an excellent job providing a very useful service. Thank you. -Eric --- * Via ProDoor 3.1įR Date: 01-19-90 (14:14) Number: 110 To: FRED HAPGOOD Refer#: NONE From: ZZZ ZZZ Read: YES Subj: "Z" REVIEWS Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE The word is correct, but spelled wrong. (restaurateurs) I have two reasons for the anonymity: 1) It's fun. 2) On occasion when a reservation is necessary to dine, I can use my real name and observe a restaurant in it's natural form. I appreciate your warm welcome and enthusiasm. I hope to hear from you again Chow mein, "Z" Date: 01-20-90 (13:35) Number: 111 To: 'Z' Refer#: 109 From: FREDERICK LONSDALE Read: NO Subj: Boston Restaurants Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE EN>Dear 'Z', EN> EN> Thank you for your detailed and informative restaurant critiques. A And in addition to those items, please mention provisions made for smokers, handicapped people and *old* people and people with special dietary needs. --- ž EZ 1.24 #135 ž RelayNet (tm) ONLINE Services Conference Host Date: 01-23-90 (21:23) Number: 114 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: TOM REVAY Read: (N/A) Subj: Doyle's Braddock Cafe Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Frequent callers to this board know how much I enjoy Doyle's, located at 3484 Washington Street (tel. 617 524-2345), in exotic Jamaica Plain. What's good about it? Well -- * first, it has probably the best draft beer in town. It keeps Sam Adams Boston Lager and Boston Ale (made in JP!), Harpoon Ale, Guinness Stout, Young's Pale Ale and Special London Ale, Bass, Pickwick Ale, a rotating slate of seasonal beers (like Oktoberfest and winter beer), plus the usual bland watery miserable lousy horrific tasteless wet-air brands like Spudweiser and 'Lite' i.e. not beer, all on draft. They keep the tap lines which run down to the cellar spotlessly clean, so the beer always tastes -real good-. You never get a skunky one, or a flat one, here. And if you're a Scotch drinker, they have a list of single-malts as long as your kilt! * second, the food is -real good-. I usually get a mushroom and garlic pizza, with nice big chunks of fresh garlic. Friends, this kind of pie will keep the wolves away at night (as well as most of your friends, unless you made the wise choice to share it with them). Their spinich salad and Greek salad is also quite good, though they could improve the dressings. Other menu stuff is largely non-vegetarian (ergo, I don't eat it), but it always -looks- good, and it usually includes several daily specials like prime rib, schrod, and various pasta dishes with meatballs or sausage. A word of advice: skip the nachos, and go for either the onion rings or the fried mozzerella sticks. The latter two are superb, and there's a healthy portion of either for $2 - $3; nachos, on the other hand, are clearly a Doyle's plot to identify and drive out the Yuppie element, consisting primarily of some bad tasting Dorito's-like chips with a side dish of warmed over CheezWhiz. Stick to the stuff they have to cook, and you'll do more than just fine. * third, it is -cheap-. The beer is mostly $2.50 a pint -- that's 16oz, friends, a nice big glass of the stuff. A large pizza as described is a bit less than $8, and most of the caloric appitizers (like the wonderfully fattening potato skins with cheese and sour cream) are only a couple bucks. Two people come out of this place -stuffed- and -tipsy- for $25. What more could you ask for? * fourth, the decor. This is a real neighborhood place. Those cheap, phony, plastic Bennigans' would KILL to look like Doyle's! Authentic WWII propaganda posters above the bar. Real old- fashioned bar murals. A hallway covered with cork boards plastered with notices of local events, postcards, and various political commentaries written by hacks of all colors. Brass rails, green curtains, wooden booths with huge backs, and gleaming marble bathrooms with chromed fixtures. Hey, it was opened in the 1880's, and like Lake Woebegon, Doyle's is a place that time forgot and that the decades cannot improve. * fifth, the clientele. I met Ted Kennedy there in March, 1988. I've seen Ray Flynn come in on more than one occasion, and in fact, the Mayor proclaimed January 20 "Doyle's Day" several years ago. And, of course, I go there too! You might just meet me there! At this point, I can hear you slobbering with Doyle's fever, lusting for a pizza and a pint -- but you need to know how to get there. Well, it's easy! FROM THE T -- Take the brand new Orange Line to Forest Hills station. Walk down the steps to the bus kiosk area, and turn left onto Washington Street. Walk past the horribly decrepit old MBTA Green Line Arborway station, and up the road about 4 blocks, until it appears glowing like Avalon on the right, at Williams Street. You'll see the brightly-lit, greenish, flat rooved building, proudly displaying the Anheuser-Busch and Guinness, & Bass logos on alternate sides. BY CAR, from the north or west -- Take Rt. 1, north or south, to where it meets Rt. 203 at the Arborway traffic circle. Turn right at that rotary onto 203, following the signs to Dorchester. Because of bridge repairs, the overpass at the Forest Hills T station is closed; get off the ramp at that station (it's the only way they'll let you go), and take a left at the bottom of the ramp. Take your first right, then your first left, onto Washington Street. Doyle's is about 4 blocks up on the right. BY CAR, from the south or east -- Get onto Rt. 203 (Gallivan Bvld), and head west toward Jamaica Plain. Keep right around the Franklin Park traffic circle, taking the exit next to the ramp to the currently-closed overpass. Take a right turn onto Washington Street. Doyle's is -still- four blocks up from that turn. This is one of my local hangouts, friends, and it's a place where everybody -might- know your name if you come often enough. It's also a lot more Boston than the Hampshire House ever hopes to be. Cheers! ...................Tom ÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄ Stand on the Gospels and you'll be taller. -- Sparrow (New York poet) ÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄ --- ž DeLuxe 1.11į18 #2345 Date: 01-23-90 (21:23) Number: 115 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: TOM REVAY Read: (N/A) Subj: The Perfect Pint Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Just last night, my dear friend and I were discussing where we had our best pint of Guinness ... ever. She told me that hers was at the music festival at Lisdoonvarna, Co. Clare, Ireland, in 1982. It musta been good ... Christy Moore wrote a song about it, and the creamy pints on a tray to be found there. As for myself, I'd have to say it was at Ward's Pub, Kiltulla, Athinry, Co. Galway, in December, 1988. We'd just seen a play at the Druid Lane Theater in Galway City, and at 11:15 we were lurching and thundering down the dark, narrow lanes between the stone walls and hedgerows in our tiny Austin Metro-City car, trying to reach the pub before the 11:30 closing time. Yes, friends -- 11:30pm is the winter closing hour for pubs in Ireland! Fortunately, this tiny little thatched-rooved place out in the Wesht uv' ire was open quite illegally until one o'clock that night, and true to form, my cousin bought me two pints of the black stuff right away in her usual effort to send me to bed with a smile and then awake with a headache. Unfortunately, even at IR œ1.40, a mere $2.10 by our cash, the $600 round-trip fare on Aer Lingus makes a trip to Galway for a pint uneconomical, and 1982 only comes around once in a great while. And since the Guinness on this side of the ocean tends to thin out when it's stored and poured improperly, I don't usually drink it in most places in the US. There are three pubs which do receive my punts for their pints, though, and it's these that this long introduction has brought me around to. First, the best Guinness stout I've had in the US has been at Limerick's, just off Milk Street, in Boston's Financial District. The place is a tad posh for my tastes -- hardwood floors, everything polished up real nice, a loud teevee blasting at'cha from up above when there's not an over-amplified band blasting from behind, and it's a pricey $3.50 for a pint. Still, they do a really good job at it -- they use proper stout glasses with the bulge just a half inch from the rim, and they do pour -slowly-, the secret to any good Guinness service. The technique is an art: 2/3 of the glass is poured, then it's left to settle. Then the glass is filled, and a head is put on it. If it's not completely black and opaque, the drinker -must- let it settle a bit more, until those amazing foamy currents waft their way to the top. Only then can the happy imbiber draw a smiley face on it, and if it's -really- good, that face will still be smiling back in the creamy head when the glass is empty. Sadly, this is not the case with Limerick's stout, but I suppose any keg would tire after travelling from St. James' Gate in Dublin to Batterymarch Street in Boston. What Limerick's lacks in real working-class pub atmosphere the Brendan Behan on Centre Street in Jamaica Plain more than makes up for. You won't find a teevee (there's a tropical fishtank in the cubbyhole where it would sit), you won't find polished floors (they seem to be a uniform black everywhere), and on most nights after 10 and on weekend evenings after seven, you probably won't find a seat. Their Guinness gets a bit rushed on these evenings; they should let it set more, but I guess they only have so much space on the bar, and at only $2.50 a pint, they sell briskly. The fellas who run this place are great too, even though Patsy won't listen to the Pogues and has been known to play The Smiths on the stereo system. (Sorry, you ultra-cool Smith fans out there -- Morrissey reminds me of eating Maypo for breakfast. Bland, boring, and real mushy. But I digress.) Finally, there's the Midnight Court, on Milk Street, just around the corner from Limerick's. In this place, the secret to getting a good Guinness is to have someone with an Irish accent order it. Truly, there are Americans who go to Ireland and order the national drink, only to complain that the bartender didn't serve it promptly; such is the our nature in this rush everywhere society that we sometimes forget to leave time for Muvver Nature to do her work (in this case, settle the stout). I've received pints in this joint that have been dumped in the jar like oil in the crankcase (glug! glug! glug!), but this past weekend, a fellow from Derry bought me a properly-poured one that was really tasty. Like Limerick's, they feature Irish music, but it's in a room off the bar, allowing barflys like me to hone our verbal skills with other like-minded Knights of the Brass Rail. It retains a few drawbacks: being only a block from the Aquarium, the Midinight Court sometimes gets a bit touristy -- "Oh, look, Harry! An Irish bar! Let's go have a Beefeater and Schweppes!" Personally, I'm also still worried that the large woman who proposed to me there a Thanksgiving ago will find me and heave me into a firemans' carry, hefting me back to her mansion in Marblehead or Martha's Vineyard or Malden (she seemed confused as to where she lived ... seriously, friends, she asked me Ma for permission to wed ... aww, forget it). But if a pint isn't worth the risk, then it's not worth the price. ...................Tom ÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄ 8279. LOBSTER CLAW HARMONICA. One great boiled red plastic claw, 6 1/2" long. A harmonica in crustacean clothing! No knowledge of music needed! Start your own band with 4 for $7.95. -- from the Archie McPhee catalog ÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄ --- ž DeLuxe 1.11į18 #2345 Date: 01-26-90 (09:17) Number: 121 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: ZZZ ZZZ Read: (N/A) Subj: CULINARY QUIZ Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE "Z" CULINARY TERMS (NOT CULINARY USER FRIENDLY) Can you guess or do you know which culinary definition is correct. Only one of the four options is a true definition. The other options are blatant lies. The answers next week. Have fun!!! Ramekin: 1) A tool used to crush or ground herbs and spices 2) A relative to the late General Rame, Hence the term "next of kin" 3) A small village 100 miles east of Rome in the Mediterranean sea 4) A small straight-sided souffle dish, 3-4 inches in diameter, in oven proof china or glass Ruster Ausbruch: 1) A chemist who lived in Germany. When cleaning his cast iron pots, he kept noticing a re-occurring orange stain. Hence the first discovery of rust. 2) A dense, often sweet late harvest Austrian white wine, produced near Rust in the Burgenland. 3) The name Anheuser-Busch when translated into Greek. 4) A technique Bakers use to air brush Rust Cream, when decorating a cake. Sprat: 1) A small fish 4.5 to 6 inches long, similar to the sardine. 2) A fisherman's term: It's time to sprat or let's get spratting. The term comes from the sound that the fish makes when thrown on the deck of a ship after being removed from a net. 3 A French Chef from the 17th century, Jacque Spratt. A name sake from the Mother Goose's Fairy Tale... Jack Sprat could eat no fat... 4) The first to advertise "All natural" a soft drink manufactured in New Jersey. Also the first to use cocaine as an ingredient. Went out of business in 1959. Advocatt: 1) Catherine Advocatt, who in the late 1700's was about to be hung for protesting the restriction of women not being a llowed to cook in professional kitchens. Hence the term advocate. Napoleon intervened to save her life just an hour before the execution was to take place. 2) A liqueor made with beaten egg yolks, sugar and spirit. 3) A nectar produced from the Advocatt plant found in the orthwest, U.S.A. Used as an elixir by the early settlers. 4) The third level of power or authority in the ranks of a professional kitchen. The Chef is # 1, The Sous chef is # 2 and the Advocatt is third. Escarole: 1) A vegetable generally eaten in green salad, similar to curly endive only with broader leaves, also known as Batavia. 2) A bank account created specifically for new restaurants before they open for business. Because of the high risks, purveyors demand that such an account is established prior to extending credit. 3) The wife of Auguste Escoffier, Escarole Melba Escoffier also known as Carole Melba Escoffier. 4) The Escarole dish is the same as the casserole dish except in which the manner dish is served. When serving an Escarole dish, only your left hand may be used. A law created by King James, the Thirtieth. Needless to say he was left handed. This type of service is all but obsolete. "Z" Date: 01-26-90 (09:20) Number: 122 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: ZZZ ZZZ Read: (N/A) Subj: CONSUMER'S POINT OF VIEW Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE "Z"s DO's and DON'Ts (What Restaurants do that piss me off) Play it Again Sams (Comm Ave, Allston) surprised me with a completed credit card voucher, no tip included. When I inquired why? To my surprise I was told that the management doesn't want customers to charge tips. They (Play it Again Sams) have to pay an additional percentage amount that the credit card company charges to establishments for the use of the credit cards. On top of that I was told that Sam's taxes would be increased because they have to claim additional income due to credit card tips. I spoke with another waitperson/barperson and asked what happens if a guest refuses to leave a cash tip? The response was "I get stiffed." My understanding of how restaurants are taxed is, maybe Sam's has to include the charge tips as income. But then, it is backed out as an expense and therefore never taxed at all. I could be wrong. If someone who does taxes or understands how tax law works, please take the time to enlighten us. I'm sure that there are a lot of people interested in the correct answer. My answer to Play it Again Sam's is that they nickel and dime us as a consumer to death. I am insulted of such a policy. And I feel that their management style is that of a coward. Why make the wait person the instrument of your penny pinching. If the additional 4 or 5 % is that difficult to swallow then don't accept credit cards at all. But you would rather deceive the guest. Let them believe that they can use their credit card like they would at any other restaurant. Then when it comes time to pay the bill you use a waitperson to let the guest know that they have been duped. Shame on you, Sam's !!! If you the reader feel the same as I do, or you disagree, give Play it Again Sam's a call (617-232-4242) and either advocate their policy or show your disgust and tell them to shape up or get the hell out of business. WE WILL NOT ACCEPT MEDIOCRITY WHEN IT COMES TO OUR HARD EARNED MONEY AND THE WAY WE SPEND IT!!! "Z" Date: 01-25-90 (22:15) Number: 123 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: ZZZ ZZZ Read: (N/A) Subj: REVIEW OF 'SPORTS DEPOT' Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE "Z" "Z"DINERS REPORT FOR DINERS BY A DINER! SPORTS DEPOT Opens daily 11:30am - 1:00am Cash, Amex, 353 Cambridge St. Mastercard & Boston, Mass. 02134 Visa accepted. (617) 783-2300 Non-Smoking section available. (3) Full bars Fully accessable for the physically impaired. ----------------------------------------------------------------- If the rumble & pandemonium of megaton trains thundering by at 60 miles an hour doesn't exhilarate you... Or the enthusiasm of a sold out crowds cheering while the Celtics pounce the Lakers at the garden, isn't your cup of tea... Then, I recommend that you stay away from the Sports Depot. Once known as the Allston Depot, now called the Sports Depot. It is located about 30 ft. from the railroad tracks at Harvard and Cambridge st. I've dined at the S.D. many times. Their strongest attribute is the atmosphere. Every time I dined at S.D. I've always had to hold on to my seat as the commuter rail storms heading for Boston. In order to enjoy this thrill you'll need to be seated in the non- smoking section. I've also discovered that the best seats for watching sporting events are available at the Sports Depot. With many other sport's bars, they offer a dark smoky room with a big screen t.v. limited to whatever the bartender decides to watch. The Sports Depot is loaded with colored televisions everywhere including the rest rooms. You're never too far from viewing any of the many sporting events from the comfort of your table. The games are not just limited to the Celtics, Bruins or Sox. I've seen Jai Ali, Kiddie Hockey, International Soccer and much more. The food is good and reasonably priced. For appetizers I always have Boneless Buffalo Wings ($5.95). It's well worth it. You get plenty of chicken in a tangy hot sauce. My favorite! Their menu offers a decent variety of salads, burgers, sandwiches, seafood, beef and chicken dishes leaning towards Tex-Mex. Most entr‚es include a bowl (not a plate) of mixed green salad, vegetables or potato, rice if you request and hot bread. I ordered Prime Rib Au Jus med rare (11.95). My dining guest also ordered Prime Rib well done. I don't know why, but we never get well done, well done and the prime rib could be leaner. I always go home full and content carrying a doggy bag. Quantity and quality of the food are consistently good. The neg point is the service is inexperienced, at best, poor. So be prepared, go expecting an exciting atmosphere and plenty of good food. And you won't be disappointed. "Z" Date: 01-26-90 (09:15) Number: 124 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: ZZZ ZZZ Read: (N/A) Subj: REVIEW OF CACTUS Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE "Z" "Z"DINER'S REPORT BY A DINER, FOR A DINER! CACTUS CLUB Non-Smoking section available. Cash, Amex, 939 Boylston St. (617) 236-0200 Mastercard Boston, Ma. 02116 Visa accepted. Full Liquor license Valet parking Available NOT fully accessible for the physically impaired. ------------------------------------------------------------------ Iron Mike Byson, a lot of bull? Prairie Oysters, maybe or maybe not the balls, but you'll go nuts over 'em. The Cactus Club, just another Tex-Mex place? Well Øpuedo ver la carta, por favor? The Cactus Club opened their doors about 7 mos ago. It's located across the street from The Hynes Convention Center, a short walk from either the Symphony (the closest) or Copley T stop. My first thought was that The Cactus Club was going to be another Boylston Street, over priced hang out spot for single yuppies. I was partially right, the prices are fair and reasonable. As for the single yuppies, O'well. We first tried dining their on Friday (7:30pm), but the wait was 45 minutes. So we tried again on Saturday around 6:30. We were seated right away. The tables are small and crowded together. If there is going to be four of you dining, I suggest that you tell the host or hostess 5, unless you don't mind rubbing knees. The Host person was pleasant but artificial. I felt uninvited, maybe I'm too sensitive. So what, I'm paying the bill. The waitstaff and support staff all wore blue jeans and a Cactus Club T shirt. The service was enthusiastic, but needs refinement to establish professionalism . The menu is wonderful, lots of variety and complete with it's own glossary. Appetizers consist of some Tex-Mex classics. Nachos, made with fresh tortilla chips topped with cheese and beans $5.95 or refried beans, bacon and cheese $5.95 or mixed cheese $5.75. Mucho Macho Nachos - cheese, chili, jalapenos, sour cream, guacamole and salsa $8.50. I have a problem paying $8.50 for nachos. But if you're there to have a good time and to drink beer(don't drive), then maybe Mucho Macho Nachos at $8.50 is not such a bad bargain. I recommend the Texas Pu Pu Platter: a Chef's choice of four appetizers, $3.95 a person, 4 person minimum. Our platter consisted of Cinnamon Chorizo Empanadas, (excellent Item, very tasty) $4.75, if ordered separately. Spicy New Mexican Chicken Wings,(wings were not very meaty but the sauce was Hot and admirable) $5.95, if ordered separately. Corn Fritters with Red Chile maple syrup (sauce was good, Fritters O.K.)$4.95, if ordered separately. And Fried Chicken Ravioli (not over fried or greasy, also fantastic). This was not offered as a separate menu item on our menu. Entr‚es are as exciting as the appetizers. We had New Mexican Ribs, $10.95, a healthy portion of marinated baby back ribs with grilled potato salad, ranch beans and jalapeno corn bread. We also had the Casserole of Grilled Chicken and rice with avocados, tomatoes, scallions, corn and chilies, $7.50. Other menu items include Pan Fried Catfish with seafood and corn Tamale, $8.50. Grilled Cactus Club Hamburger with home made french fries and salsa $5.50 and many more enticing food items. In my opinion the Cactus Club has the best Quality food and service to price ratio in the Back Bay. Their food is plentiful and delicious. Quality is obvious even to the non-gourmet. The atmosphere is pleasant but a bit crowded. A rough place to bring toddlers or infants. The woman's restroom is too small for the size of the restaurant. Accessibility for the physically impaired is poor. It's a very big negative considering that The Cactus Club is a new establishment. Over all I suggest dining there. Don't forget to ask for Iron Mike Byson! Until next week, Adios and Chow Mein !!! "Z" Date: 01-30-90 (19:24) Number: 131 To: ZZZ ZZZ Refer#: 122 From: TOM REVAY Read: YES Subj: CONSUMER'S POINT OF VIEW Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE ZZ> Play it Again Sams (Comm Ave, Allston) surprised me with a ZZ>completed credit card voucher, no tip included. When I inquired why? ZZ>To my surprise I was told that the management doesn't want customers ZZ>to charge tips. Isn't that just too bad? Well .. ZZ>They (Play it Again Sams) have to pay an additional percentage amount ZZ>that the credit card company charges to establishments for the use of ZZ>the credit cards. ZZ> I spoke with another waitperson/barperson and asked what happens ZZ>if a guest refuses to leave a cash tip? The response was "I get ZZ>stiffed." Every business on the planet that chooses to accept credit cards has to pay a fee to accept the card. If they prefer, they can refuse to accept them, or they can charge an additional fee, stated up front, to accept a charge card, as many gasoline stations do. Of course, that would be bad for business -- it discourages folks from spending. So, instead, Sam's allows you to pay the management on the card, but the employees have to hope that the customer has a few loose bills in their pocket so that they can get a tip. ZZ>On top of that I was told that Sam's taxes would be increased because ZZ>they have to claim additional income due to credit card tips. But if they give it to the employees, then it's a deduction, just as the employees' wages are; the business doesn't pay tax on the employees' income, the employees do! If, on the other hand, they're keeping cash tips and not telling the IRS, then they're ripping off the taxpayers, which is to say, -us-. (Personally, I can't believe they'd do this. It's too blatant, and the Federal slammer awaits those who would try such a shoddy flim-flam. I suspect this is a specious reason to try to justify their ridiculous behavior. By telling you, "Oh, it increases our taxes unjustly," I suspect they're trying to evoke your sympathy in these months when we all have to determine what our tax bill was for the last year.) ZZ>I am insulted of such a policy. And I feel that their management ZZ>style is that of a coward. Why make the wait person the instrument of ZZ>your penny pinching. If the additional 4 or 5 % is that difficult to ZZ>swallow then don't accept credit cards at all. But you would rather ZZ>deceive the guest. Let them believe that they can use their credit ZZ>card like they would at any other restaurant. Then when it comes time ZZ>to pay the bill you use a waitperson to let the guest know that they ZZ>have been duped. Shame on you, Sam's !!! Sam's policy -is- outrageous. It amounts to a slap at their customers, for not stating the policy up front and justifying it before the meal is ordered, and it is also a slap at their employees because the establishment clearly discourages tipping even though the employees wages are dependent upon collecting tips. Essentially, so long as Sam's owners get their cut, then anyone else can be damned! I lived near Sam's for several years, eating there at least once a week, and at that time, I generally paid in cash. I was last there about two months ago, and as I recall, I paid in cash then, too. Hearing this now, I'm inclined to avoid the place entirely, and head up Comm Ave to the El Phoenix room, or down Harvard Street in Brookline where there are several fine restaurants. There's no particular reason why I should visit Sam's, and their kind of crass attitude regarding their customers and employees gives me good cause to avoid the place. ...................Tom ÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄ "It's not pinein', it's passed on! It's a stiff! It's lost it's breath of life! If you hadn't nailed it to the perch, it'd be six feet under, pushing up daisies! This is an ex-parrot!" ÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄ --- ž DeLuxe 1.11į18 #2345 Date: 02-01-90 (19:57) Number: 135 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: ZZZ ZZZ Read: (N/A) Subj: 12TH INTERNATIONAL + Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE "Z" RESTAURANT REVIEWS "Z" DINER'S REPORT BY A DINER FOR A DINER ! Coming up - March 2-4. The 12th International Food and Nutrition Show. A healthy cornucopia of self indulgence, 225 booths of all you can eat Yogurt, Soy products, Organically grown produce, Whole wheat baked goods. Also available are Chefs and cookbook authors. An Anti-Cholesterol Pro-Health extravaganza is happening at the Hartford Civic Center. For additional info call 203-529-2123, $6.00 admission. ----------------------------------------------------------------- Last week's answers To America's favorite "Z" Quiz Ramekin=4, Ruster Ausbruch=2, Sprat=1, Advocatt=2, Escarole=1 ***************************************************************** Date: 02-01-90 (20:14) Number: 136 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: ZZZ ZZZ Read: (N/A) Subj: THAT CUP OF COFFEE..TO GO Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE COFFEE COFFEE COFFEE COFFEE COFFEE COFFEE COFFEE COFFEE COFFEE Where to go for your morning cup of coffee to go First known as Qahwah (Arabic) or Kahve (Turkish). The Arabic word originally designated as any stimulating beverage. The Italians call it CaffŠ and we all know it as Coffee. The simple morning ritual of awakening with a fresh cup of Java has emerged from a modest stainless steel percolator coffee pot and a can of Hills Brothers coffee. Now, it has become a market saturated with automatic drip coffee makers and mega selections of fresh roasted coffee beans found at expensive speciality stores and local supermarkets. I searched out coffee vendors of all varieties. Food trucks (a.k.a. Roach Coaches) to Gourmet coffee suppliers and everything in between. Quality or brand of coffee, was not a criteria, just availability and price were my only concern. Dunkin Donuts is my favorite over all dependable, "morning coffee place". The original D.D. was founded by William Rosenberg in 1950 in Quincy, Mass. Today, worldwide, there are 1,900 D.D. 1,561 of those located in the U.S.A. No matter what town I might find myself, if there is a Dunkin Donuts, I know when I order "THE Big One" I'll get a fairly good quality cup of coffee. Never burned or tasting as if it were sitting around all day. The price varies place to place. For example: The Big One (14oz) at D.D. Porter Square or Sullivan Sq T stop costs a $1.05 or.075/oz; at Central Sq $1.00 or .071/oz and D.D. on Causeway Street in Boston or at Harvard St in Allston $.99 or .070/oz. The relative newcomers in the "coffee to go" arena are the Convenient stores. The two major complaints I have with convenient stores are that they are not too conscientious of how aged a pot of coffee might be. This problem occurs more often in the afternoon and evening after the coffee rush has subsided. The other problem is the lack of availability or the choice of regular milk to add to your coffee. Otherwise when their coffee is fresh it is usually good and you have the option of self service which is nice, being you can control the sweetness and darkness of each cup you purchase. The best place for choice of condiments to accompany your cup of coffee and cleanliness is the 7-eleven on 750 Mass Ave in Cambridge across from the Post office. Their biggest cup of coffee at 20 oz for $.89 or .044›/oz includes a choice of cream, milk, 1/2 & 1/2, Irish mocha cream or Amaretto cream (non-alcoholic) . To me, it is not so much the items they offer, but the fact that they offer it, and offer it at no extra charge. It is these subtle hints of service that I rate as first class and guarantee a return visit when I'm in Cambridge. Store 24 stores offer a good cup of coffee. In my opinion, some of the stores need to improve the cleanliness and convenience of their coffee area. It is obvious that their concern is the dollar value of their retail space and not customer ease of accessibility. Cost of a 16oz cup coffee $.80 or .05›/oz. White Hen Pantry, located on Tremont & Marginal St. It is O.K. all around, clean, reasonable space and $.89 for 20oz cup or .044›/oz. Some restaurants that offer coffee to go: Tremont Ice Cream, located at Tremont & Public Alley 701 near Union St. $.75 for 12oz or .062›/oz (Good Breakfast under $5.00) Blue Diner, located at Kneeland & South St. $.65 for 10oz or .065›/oz (look for a review in the future) They have the best coffee cups. The Steaming Kettle, located at Government Center.(steaming tea pot) $.68 for 10oz or.068›/oz Some unconventional spots for coffee to go: Food trucks or Roach coaches: Located at Huntington Ave and also at Forsyth St. at Northeastern University. The better buys are the two trucks on Forsyth St. $.55 for 10oz. The two trucks on Huntington Ave charge $.60 for 10oz. The biggest cup of coffee to go: Sparr's Pharmacy, located at Huntington and Longwood Ave., $1.20 for 22oz or.054›/oz. Sparr is a pharmacy and diner in one. Not many of these around anymore. It is worth the visit for posterity sake. The most Expensive: The Coffee Connection, located all over Boston area, $1.35 for 16oz or .084›/oz. The Coffee Connection is for the coffee connoisseur. The prices are high. You're paying for quality. You will never have anything less but an excellent cup of coffee. For those who still have time to enjoy coffee at home, it is suggested that freshly brewed coffee not sit around on direct heat for more than a 1/2 hour. If you will not finish the coffee within a 1/2 hour, it is suggested that the coffee be kept in a thermos. Until next week. Chow Mein11 "Z" Date: 02-01-90 (20:21) Number: 137 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: ZZZ ZZZ Read: (N/A) Subj: THE BOSTONIAN DELI Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE "Z" "Z" DINER'S REPORT BY A DINER FOR A DINER ! BOSTONIAN DELI Hours Mon-Thur 7am-8pm Fax (617)367-1399 116 Cambridge street Fri 7am-7pm Take out(617)367-1460 Boston, Mass. Sat 7am-3pm Sun 8am-2pm Non-smoking section NOT available. Unaccessible for the physically impaired. No Alcohol. ---------------------------------------------------------------- Because my dining reports are geared to the dollar wise diner, you'll notice I'm impressed more by dollar value than frills. Don't get me wrong I enjoy the f rills. But I don't want the majority of my check paying for them. One other point, I don't critique an establishment on one experience. All of my reviews are based on at least two visits and generally more than two. A bad experience on the first visit guarantees a second visit. Let's face it, we all have bad days and a true value should also be based on how a manager/owner reacts in rectifying a p roblem. Although there is no excuse for frequent problems, a single problem hand led professionally and satisfyingly deserves positive recognition and continued patronage. For a quick no frills lunch I recommend the Bostonian Deli located on Cambrid ge St., 5 mins from City Hall/J.F.K. Fed Building. B.D's menu is a blend of a N. Y. style deli and a pre 70's diner. Some of the offerings consist of bagel and cream cheese (.95) or raisin toast (.75). Both are part of their breakfast menu. One of my visits I had a New Yorker ($4.25) mounds of cornbeef, Swiss cheese in perfect proportion to the meat, cole slaw and Russian dressing. In my opinion, a perfect sandwich. Their menu is one of homestyle cooking, simple and plentiful, no sprouts. My l ast meal was a turkey dinner special ($5.95) about 5oz of sliced moist, tender Turkey breast (cut in front of you, off the bird). Corn bread stuffing with a heaping mound of real mashed potatoes and of course green peas. Also included is a choice of bread, roll or pita bread. The only neg point is cranberry sauce in individual containers (o'well). The Bostonian Deli is rather small and untidy to be polite. You order from the counter. Seating is confusing. I recommend you go off peak hours or get your food to go. The Bostonian Deli is a fine example of no frills dining, just Quality... Chow mein "Z"U Date: 02-03-90 (07:03) Number: 139 To: 'Z' Refer#: 104 From: BARRY SCHEUR Read: NO (Has Replies) Subj: HELLO THERE Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE This is a wonderful idea. Rather than focusing on a single establishment, I would like to share a personal beef regarding the lack of quality eating establishments in the Newton area. It is astounding to me that whenever we are going out for either a quick family dinner oh or something a little more upscale, we have to go somewhere else. More than any other town or suburb surrounding Boston, Newton has seen a never ending list of mediocre establishments come with great fanfare, furn slightly with average to poor food/service, and go out of business. Excepting the Abruzzi chain and the Chestnut Hill Legal Seafood, the pickings are pretty slim! Does anybody agree? / Date: 02-03-90 (07:15) Number: 140 To: 'Z' Refer#: 107 From: BARRY SCHEUR Read: NO (Has Replies) Subj: MING GARDEN Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE I will echo your sentiments. I eat at Ming (or actually, have their food delivered by Delicious Deliveries twice or three times a week. Their Jordan Chicken, the equivalent of a General Chao's or Gao's chicken, depending upon where you are eating, is unfailingly well prepared, slightly crisp, and moist. The boneless spareribs appetizer is just about the best of its type in the area (my kids hate Chinese food but eat that one, so it must be OK). Unlike most kHi. Does anyone know which, if any, video stores have copied of RC>Mike Jittlov's _The Wizard of Speed and Time_ available for rental? RC>It was released on videotape on 2/3/90. Ooh. I want. I want. ĶĶ Gordon ĶĶ --- ž DeLuxe 1.11į17 #838 If there isn't a law, there will be. Date: 02-08-90 (20:20) Number: 145 To: TOM REVAY Refer#: 131 From: BRUCE CANTOR Read: YES Subj: CONSUMER'S POINT OF VIEW Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE ZZ> Play it Again Sams (Comm Ave, Allston) surprised me with a ZZ>completed credit card voucher, no tip included. When I inquired why? ZZ>To my surprise I was told that the management doesn't want customers ZZ>to charge tips. TR>I suspect this is a specious reason to try to justify TR>their ridiculous behavior. By telling you, "Oh, it increases our TR>taxes unjustly," I suspect they're trying to evoke your sympathy in TR>these months when we all have to determine what our tax bill was for TR>the last year.) TR>Sam's policy -is- outrageous. It amounts to a slap at their TR>customers, for not stating the policy up front and justifying it TR>before the meal is ordered, and it is also a slap at their employees TR>because the establishment clearly discourages tipping even though the TR>employees wages are dependent upon collecting tips. Essentially, so TR>long as Sam's owners get their cut, then anyone else can be damned! This is becoming more prevalent. My wife and I frequent the Dellaria Salon on Newbury St. They also do not allow credit card tips. Their reason is that "we don't have that kind of contract with the bank" so that you can't directly blame it on them. Given our current shortage of cash (and soon to be shortage of available credit) this has caused us trouble more than once. My wife even left me there one day while she ran around trying to find an ATM to get the cash to leave a tip. I'm going back in next Saturday. I intend to make a little noise about it this time. The only justification I can think of is that the retailer is charged a use fee which is a fixed percentage of the total amount charged. I don't know if this is completely accurate, as it would mean the fee is also charged on sales taxes, and I'm not sure as to the legality of that. For what it's worth. --- ž EZ 1.25 ž Read WHICH Novell manual? Date: 02-08-90 (21:54) Number: 147 To: BRUCE CANTOR Refer#: 145 From: FREDERICK LONSDALE Read: YES Subj: CONSUMER'S POINT OF VIEW Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE BC>This is becoming more prevalent. My wife and I frequent the Dellaria BC>Salon on Newbury St. They also do not allow credit card tips. Their BC>reason is that "we don't have that kind of contract with the bank" so BC>that you can't directly blame it on them. Given our current shortage I think there is a bit of double speak on the part of Dellaria. I am not in this business, but I have been told that a store pays a nominal monthly fee for a particular credit card. In addition, the credit company gets from a low of 1 to 1.5% of charged sales [DISCOVER] to a high of 4 to 5% [American Express]. The greater the amount of charged sales, the lower the rate. A small restaurant may have a problem with tips, because the waiters might want the money nightly or weekly while the owner might have to wait 14 or more days for his money. This might be equivalent to a loan to the waiters. Of course, they could discount the amount of the tips charged. Anyway, the restaurant would have to apply witholding on the charged tips. Thus, the owner would average 3 months float on about 8% of the charged tip. I bet that the waiters would prefer cash tips over charged tips. That way they can play more games with the IRS. If there are no paper records of tips, it is pretty hard for the IRS to get a good estimate of a waiters tip income. Any time I have eaten out, I have never encountered this problem. Maybe I don't go to the right places. ;-) --Fred, 9:38 PM February 8, 1990 --- ž EZ 1.24 #135 ž RelayNet (tm) ONLINE Services Conference Host Date: 02-08-90 (22:25) Number: 148 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: ZZZ ZZZ Read: (N/A) Subj: review of Hop Too's Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE "Z" "Z" DINER'S REPORT BY A DINER, FOR A DINER! HOP TOO'S HOP TOO'S HOP TOO'S 62 Washington St. 217 Highland St. 1 Lans Downe St Brighton, Mass Somerville, Mass. Boston, Mass. (617) 739-0200 (617) 666-0060 (617) 536-0300 TAKE OUT OR DELIVERY ONLY NO CREDIT CARDS ACCEPTED ------------------------------------------------------------------ Too go, or not Too go? Hop Too's is a truly Amer-ethnic restaurant, right up to the point that it is a franchise. Hop Too's claims that their menu is like an excursion through China. Nice try, I don't get that same feeling. Hop Too's menu is a decent menu for both the quality of the paper that it is printed on and the variety of food items to choose from (approximately 50 items). Apart from that, there is very little positive that I can say. All the items are prepared to go or for delivery. Delivery is free for orders of $7.00 or more. Hop Too's claims to use no MSG in their food. We ordered B.B.Q. spare ribs ($5.95) absolutely not worth ordering, you get 6 pathetic meatless ribs with a sauce that taste like a combination of reduced soy and maggie sauce. We also ordered a large Hot and Sour Soup (Enough for four people, $3.50 for large $2.05 for small). The soup was great and can hold its own with the best. It was consistently good each time we ordered it. Excellent blend of flavors, just enough pepper to make it pleasantly hot. Their Chicken Lo Mein lacked chicken and the noodles were much to greasy to be forgiven (Reg $4.50 Large $7.25). Kung Poa chicken was all right (reg $5.95 Large $9.45). Szechuan Beef (Reg $5.80 Large $9.25). Another disappointment, instead of chunks of moist tender beef you receive thin sliced beef (slightly thicker than shaved steak) that was dry and absent of flavor. Over all, for the price they shouldn't try to cut costs by withholding the primary ingredient (meat). You get lots of vegetables. Unfortunately, I believe that the food is slightly greasy, and lacks life, but you get plenty to eat. The delivery is fast. I never had to wait longer than 30 minutes. The delivery people were friendly and courteous. When you're lingering around the home you're too sluggish to go out let alone cook, Give Hop Too's a try, as far as quality you'll do slightly better than ordering a pizza. Chow mein "Z" Date: 02-08-90 (22:28) Number: 149 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: ZZZ ZZZ Read: (N/A) Subj: Cigar anyone? Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE "Z" "Z" DINER'S REPORT BY A DINER FOR A DINER ! ----------------------------------------------------------------- Our rights up in smoke ? It's considered inappropriate for individuals dining in public to raise their voices to a point that it is disturbing to others. I don't know anyone who would approve of spraying disinfectant around their table to exterminate stray germs. How would you handle a parent who presumes that it is appropriate to change their toddler's diapers in full view of surrounding patrons? Intrusive behaviors, because of the lack of social approval, these events are uncommon. Yet, one irritating behavior still exists in public restaurants, that's smoking. I'm not talking about smokers in bars or nightclubs. I'm talking about restaurants where dining is the primary event and drinking is an accompaniment used to enhance the over all experience. Every smoker I have ever dined with, without exception will not smoke while THEY are eating and most will extinguish a half smoked cigarette when their food arrives. Yet without exception as soon as they're done eating, they light up. If you're lucky, they will sit in anguish while you finish your own meal. No sooner than you remove the final morsel from your plate, they're exhaling their first drag. No matter what the smokers say about their rights to smoke, their rights stop at the point their smoke infiltrates my dining space. Because of their addiction for tar and nicotine, common courtesy to others takes a back seat. Whatever the reasons that motivate the smoker to douse their cigarette before a meal, patiently wait while their dining companions finish their meals should also apply to the faceless strangers around them. I am for a law that bans all smoking in pubic restaurants. Very few restaurants have adequate non-smoking areas. Unfortunately, the smaller restaurants choose not to have a non-smoking sections at all. Any smoker who extinguishes their cigarette before their meal, admits by their actions that smoking and eating do not mix. So don't ruin everyone else's meal because you're finished with yours. What do the rest of you think, am I right or wrong? Let me know how you feel about what I said. Especially the smokers who think that if I don't like it, eat somewhere else or don't eat out at all. If anyone knows of a restaurant that doesn't have a non-smoking section and you think that they should, let us know, maybe collectively, we can encourage a righting of a wrong. Until the next time we meet. "Z" --- ž Via ProEdit 3.2įR ž Channel 1 Date: 02-08-90 (22:28) Number: 150 To: KIMBERLY BRISSETTE Refer#: NONE From: NANCY GOLDEN Read: NO Subj: Eating Out Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Here are a few to try: They are mostly expensive restaurants with prices ranging from 18-30 dollars per entree. 1. Bay Tower Room-60 State St. Boston.....very nice 2. Hotel Meridien-Cafe Fleuri...excellent brunch and Julian's for dinner. I've heard their brunch is best in Boston 3. Hotel Meridien-250 franklin St. Boston. 4. Cafe Escadrille-rt 3A-Burlington (just off of Rt. 128) If you don't want anything this expensive, let me know and I will give you a few ideas not so costly to the pocketbook. Date: 02-09-90 (14:18) Number: 151 To: ZZZ ZZZ Refer#: 149 From: FREDERICK LONSDALE Read: YES Subj: Cigar anyone? Arrrgggh!!! Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE ZZ> ZZ> "Z" ZZ> ZZ> "Z" DINER'S REPORT BY A DINER FOR A DINER ! ZZ>----------------------------------------------------------------- ZZ> Our rights up in smoke ? It seems you want to eliminate my rights! ZZ> I am for a law that bans all smoking in pubic restaurants. Very ZZ>few restaurants have adequate non-smoking areas. Unfortunately, ZZ>the smaller restaurants choose not to have a non-smoking sections at ZZ>all. Any smoker who extinguishes their cigarette before their meal, ZZ>admits by their actions that smoking and eating do not mix. So ZZ>don't ruin everyone else's meal because you're finished with yours. ZZ> ZZ> What do the rest of you think, am I right or wrong? Let me know ZZ>how you feel about what I said. Especially the smokers who think that ZZ>if I don't like it, eat somewhere else or don't eat out at all. If ZZ>anyone knows of a restaurant that doesn't have a non-smoking section ZZ>and you think that they should, let us know, maybe collectively, ZZ>we can encourage a righting of a wrong. If a restaurant bans smoking, I will not spend my money in that restaurant, no matter how good the place is. I am probably in the minority here. If the state or individual restaurants ban smoking, they have lost me as a customer. Period. Enough said. --Fred February 9, 1990 1:11 PM --- ž EZ 1.24 #135 ž Say what? Date: 02-09-90 (14:18) Number: 152 To: NANCY GOLDEN Refer#: 150 From: FREDERICK LONSDALE Read: NO Subj: Eating Out Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE NG> Here are a few to try: They are mostly expensive restaurants wi NG>prices ranging from 18-30 dollars per entree. NG> 1. Bay Tower Room-60 State St. Boston.....very nice NG> 2. Hotel Meridien-Cafe Fleuri...excellent brunch and Julian's f NG>dinner. I've heard their brunch is best in Boston NG> 3. Hotel Meridien-250 franklin St. Boston. Nancy, is Patton's still in business? in Boston? If it is, have you been there recently. I seem to recall it as a pretty good place. How about Locke-Obers? --Fred February 9, 1990 1:14 PM --- ž EZ 1.24 #135 ž RelayNet (tm) Online Services Conference Host Date: 02-09-90 (14:29) Number: 153 To: FREDERICK LONSDALE Refer#: 151 From: ZZZ ZZZ Read: YES Subj: ? Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Fred, are you a smoker? "Z" Date: 02-09-90 (22:54) Number: 156 To: ZZZ ZZZ Refer#: 153 From: FREDERICK LONSDALE Read: YES Subj: ? Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE ZZ>Fred, are you a smoker? "Z" Guess? ;-) --Fred, 10:24 PM February 9, 1990 --- ž EZ 1.24 #135 ž RelayNet (tm) ONLINE Services Conference Host Date: 02-10-90 (04:08) Number: 157 To: FREDERICK LONSDALE Refer#: 151 From: FRED HAPGOOD Read: YES Subj: Cigar anyone? Arrrgggh!!! Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Though not a smoker myself, I never see a person smoking without feeling a surge of joy that somebody out there is speeeting in the face of the barbarian puritans. --- ž EZ 1.26 ž South End, Boston Date: 02-10-90 (13:24) Number: 160 To: FRED HAPGOOD Refer#: 157 From: ZZZ ZZZ Read: YES Subj: UNSURE Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Fred L, Please pardon my simpleness, but I am unsure of the gist of your point. Is it your opinion that smokers be allowed to smoke in public dining area without restrictions. If so, and being your a non-smoker, please detail your position jut a bit further. Thanks "Z" Date: 02-10-90 (16:50) Number: 161 To: FRED HAPGOOD Refer#: 157 From: FREDERICK LONSDALE Read: YES (Has Replies) Subj: Cigar anyone? Arrrgggh!!! Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE FH>Though not a smoker myself, I never see a person smoking without FH>feeling a surge of joy that somebody out there is speeeting in FH>the face of the barbarian puritans. You say it much better than I. Our founding fathers set up a system of checks and balances to prevent the tyranny of the majority and to protect individual liberties. It amazes me to no end that such a liberal part of the country is willing to destroy personal freedom. I guess it dates back to the Salem Witch trials. Be a little bit different from others and they burn you at the stake.... or burn your steak... whatever. ;-) --Fred, 4:01 PM February 10, 1990 --- ž EZ 1.24 #135 ž RelayNet (tm) ONLINE Services Conference Host Date: 02-10-90 (20:38) Number: 162 To: FREDERICK LONSDALE Refer#: 161 From: SEAN BENWARD Read: YES Subj: NO CIGAR, ANYONE ARRRGGH! Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Your response is typical, as smokers are typical. Aside from your problem with liberals, justify, why your rights to smoke outweigh my rights to a smoke free environment. You must admit that smoking is intrusive. Are you in favor of people spraying Raid in the air to kill flies while you're eating? They have rights, Right. How about peoples' right to spray a little bit of ammonia around because they have an obsession with germs? Did you know that smoke inhibits your ability to properly taste? Do you have a problem with the restrictions that hospitals impose against smoking? Do you feel that your right to smoke is more important than a patient's right to recover? Do you believe that smoking is dangerous to your health? I have no problem with your right to kill yourself, But.. being that it is proven that secondary smoke is not so beneficial to my health then I have a problem with your right to poison me. My hat off to "Z", Speeting factless rhetoric is what smokers are best at. It doesn't look like smokers are going to take the initiative to abstain from their toxic habit while in public places. Unfortunately, it is going to take laws to protect the non-smokers. What is at stake? "Steak", Rare, the way I like mine cooked. Pink on the inside. The same color I want my lungs to stay. Date: 02-10-90 (22:31) Number: 163 To: SEAN BENWARD Refer#: 162 From: FREDERICK LONSDALE Read: NO Subj: NO CIGAR, ANYONE ARRRGGH! Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE SB> Your response is typical, as smokers are typical. Aside from your SB>problem with liberals, justify, why your rights to smoke outweigh my I have no problems with [L]iberals. Matter of fact, I am a liberal. I am probably the *most* liberal person in the Western Hemisphere. SB>rights to a smoke free environment. You must admit that smoking is SB>intrusive. Are you in favor of people spraying Raid in the air to kil You have a perfect right to a smoke free environment. All I said is that *I* will not patronize a restaurant that does not make adequate provisions for smokers. I assume you only patronize restaurants that ban smoking. There are *plenty*. I was the one who first asked "Z" to include notices about how a restaurant accomodates smokers. "Z", I believe, assumed that I was a non-smoker when the reverse is actually true. That, I believe, says something about the *war* against law abiding smokers. SB>flies while you're eating? They have rights, Right. How about peoples SB>right to spray a little bit of ammonia around because they have an SB>obsession with germs? Did you know that smoke inhibits your ability t SB>properly taste? Do you have a problem with the restrictions that You would have made a good witness at a Salem Witch trial. SB>hospitals impose against smoking? Do you feel that your right to smo SB>is more important than a patient's right to recover? Do you believe t SB>smoking is dangerous to your health? I have no problem with your righ Who said anything about hospitals? SB>poison me. My hat off to "Z", Speeting factless rhetoric is what SB>smokers are best at. It doesn't look like smokers are going to take t SB>initiative to abstain from their toxic habit while in public places. I should abstain? I *avoid* non-smoking situations. If smoking is not allowed, and I want a smoke, I leave. SB>Unfortunately, it is going to take laws to protect the non-smokers. There are already laws to protect you. I am sure more laws will be passed restricting smokers. I believe what you want is total abolition. They tried that with liquor. They try to outlaw a lot of things... abortion... spitting... and more. Tyranny! --- ž EZ 1.24 #135 ž RelayNet (tm) ONLINE Services Conference Host Date: 02-11-90 (01:02) Number: 164 To: ZZZ ZZZ Refer#: 160 From: FRED HAPGOOD Read: YES Subj: UNSURE Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE > Please pardon my simpleness, but I am unsure of the gist of your > point. My point don't got no gist. It's just that I hate living in a society dedicated to planetary concern, lo-fat food, lite beer, safe sex, anti-furrism, creating incentives for saving, anti-smoking, anti-drinking, not fetishizing body parts ... I hate this plague of placid nurturing, and cheer whenever I see somebody strong enough to blow smoke in its face. --- ž EZ 1.26 ž South End, Boston Date: 02-11-90 (14:25) Number: 165 To: FREDERICK LONSDALE Refer#: 161 From: KAREN ROCKOW Read: YES Subj: Cigar anyone? Arrrgggh!!! Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE > You say it much better than I. Our founding fathers set > up a system of checks and balances to prevent the > tyranny of the majority and to protect individual > liberties. It amazes me to no end that such a liberal > part of the country is willing to destroy personal > freedom. Gee, Fred, I never realized that freedom to blow smoke in someone else's face was right up there with freedom of the press. --- ž Via ProDoor 3.2įR ž Channel 1 Date: 02-11-90 (21:07) Number: 166 To: KAREN ROCKOW Refer#: 165 From: FREDERICK LONSDALE Read: YES Subj: Cigar anyone? Arrrgggh!!! Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE KR>Gee, Fred, I never realized that freedom to blow smoke in someone els KR>face was right up there with freedom of the press. Karen, I do not blow smoke in people's faces. I do all in my power to avoid smoking near people who do not smoke. [By near, I mean in the same room or building or city, not at the next table. I have not been to Cambridge for years except to drive thru with the windows closed.] However, I draw the line when others try to force me to adopt their particular lifestyle. I am not about to patronize a restaurant that does not accomodate me. If I am paying, they do it my way! If they can get along without my business, that suits me fine. --Fred, 8:48 PM February 11, 1990 --- ž EZ 1.24 #135 ž RelayNet (tm) ONLINE Services Conference Host Date: 02-11-90 (22:56) Number: 167 To: FREDERICK LONSDALE Refer#: 166 From: GORDON HAFF Read: YES Subj: Cigar anyone? Arrrgggh!!! Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Fred, I'm with you on this one even though I'm not a smoker. Most people have lots of habits which annoy me (and no doubt I have lots which annoy them). This country has always had a certain puritanical urge just below the surface which has been coming closer and closer to bursting out recently. There are a few people who by reason of allergies or asthma or whatnot are legitimately very sensitive to cigarette smoke. I consider the hypersentitivity shown by many these days though to me more of a fad than anything else. I would point to a similar discussion about alcohol on this board a few months back. I may have been misreading it, but the general gist of a few people's comments seemed to be that if you drank more than they did (a few times a month) you were a borderline alcoholic. In my experience, Europeans seem to handle issues of this sort in a much more balanced manner. There are many additional pieces of evidence I could throw out -- such as the cutting out of any nudity on network TV and airline flights. FLAME Off. Sorry if I've offended anyone, but this sort of thing really rubs me the wrong way. ĶĶ Gordon ĶĶ --- ž DeLuxe 1.11į17 #838 If there isn't a law, there will be. Date: 02-12-90 (00:18) Number: 168 To: ZZZ ZZZ Refer#: 136 From: BETSY SCHWARTZ Read: YES Subj: THAT CUP OF COFFEE..TO GO Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Ahhhh, a review close to my heart! Really enjoyed it, ZZZ, thanks! I live near Mass Ave in Cambridge and will definitly check out that 7-11! I;ve been goign to the Sage's Jr on Broadway&Ellery which is closest to my house but erratic in quality (plus they put in the milk themselves and often use too much!) --- ž EZ-Reader 1.14 ž Look, Ma , a tagline! Date: 02-12-90 (13:58) Number: 169 To: GORDON HAFF Refer#: 167 From: FREDERICK LONSDALE Read: YES Subj: Cigar anyone? Arrrgggh!!! Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE GH>I'm with you on this one even though I'm not a smoker. Most people h GH>lots of habits which annoy me (and no doubt I have lots which annoy GH>them). This country has always had a certain puritanical urge just GH>below the surface which has been coming closer and closer to bursting GH>out recently. Thank you for your support. You mentioned asthma. This is a deadly disease which is on the rise. Even though it can be managed, it leads to heart enlargement. Eventually the the victim will experience cardiac arrest. I would never put persons with asthma or other problems in jeopardy. --Fred February 12, 1990 12:54 PM --- ž EZ 1.24 #135 ž Say what? Date: 02-12-90 (17:13) Number: 170 To: ZZZ ZZZ Refer#: 149 From: TOM REVAY Read: NO Subj: Cigar anyone? Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE I enjoyed your article about smoking. I, too, don't like the stuff, having never smoked myself, and I hate eating with smoke in the air. One line stands out, however: ZZ> I am for a law that bans all smoking in pubic restaurants. ABSOLUTELY! Why, it might singe some VERY tender areas! 8-) (By the way, you gonna review one of these "pubic" restaurants anytime soon? With anybody I know? 8-)) --- On a more serous note: who is familar with the Massachusetts restaurant smoking law? I had understood that restaurants which serve more than 75 patrons were required to have a non-smoking area, but the Champions Sports Bar in the Mariott Hotel in Copley Place tells me that they're somehow "exempt." Can this be true? Could it be because they call themselves a "bar"? Whether or not they do, they serve a full menu, substantial enough that they must have a license to serve meals, and thus I'd expect them to be bound by whatever requirements are imposed upon restaurants in this State. ...................Tom ÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄ Tag lines: sound bites for the eyes. ÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄ --- ž DeLuxe 1.11į18 #2345 Date: 02-14-90 (02:02) Number: 171 To: RICHARD CARREIRO Refer#: 143 From: BETSY SCHWARTZ Read: YES Subj: The Wizard of Speed And T Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE RC>Hi. Does anyone know which, if any, video stores have copied of RC>Mike Jittlov's _The Wizard of Speed and Time_ available for rental? RC>It was released on videotape on 2/3/90. I saw that tonight listed at th e Medord Super Stop'n'Shop on Rte 16, dunno if its IN. Now, can you tell me anyplace which has it for sale??? Great movie!!! Saw it last year at the SOmerville(Sniff! hats off! RIP Somerville, sob!) Was forcibly prevented from sitting through it twice by my so-called friends. --- ž EZ-Reader 1.14 ž Lady be good, do what you should, Date: 02-14-90 (02:02) Number: 172 To: ZZZ ZZZ Refer#: 149 From: BETSY SCHWARTZ Read: NO Subj: Cigar anyone? Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE I think Cambridge REQUIRES a smoking section. I'm an on-again-off-again smoker (meaning trying to STAY quit) so I can see both sides. It is hard to get upset at someone at anotehr table who is smoking , sitting under a sign which says "smoking permitted here." Restauranteurs know that if they baneed smoking they would lose some business from customers lingering over desserts, drinks, and cigarettes. I bet smokers who can't smoke make more noise to management than non- smokers who would prefer a smoke-free restaurant. Ideally the smoking and non-smoking sections would be sealed off by an impenetrable barrier... --- ž EZ-Reader 1.14 ž Theres more than one answer to the questions Date: 02-14-90 (02:02) Number: 173 To: FREDERICK LONSDALE Refer#: 163 From: BETSY SCHWARTZ Read: YES (Has Replies) Subj: NO CIGAR, ANYONE ARRRGGH! Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE I must say, I prefer to work in a non-smoking office (the one I work in now has a smoking lounge, which is a great set-up) I agree with you and Fred though that we can go overboard by trying to do it all through legislation! If the restaurants in this city divideed themselves into non-smoking, all-smoking, and half-smoking, I don't think anyone'd be hurt, as long as it was voluntary. You are quite right that businesses should be able to cater to their customers! (airlines, I suspect, may be another issue because of the possible safety issues...I don;t know enough about them to judge) --- ž EZ-Reader 1.14 ž The less I seek my source for some definitive Date: 02-14-90 (21:32) Number: 174 To: BETSY SCHWARTZ Refer#: 173 From: FREDERICK LONSDALE Read: YES Subj: NO CIGAR, ANYONE ARRRGGH! Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE BS>now has a smoking lounge, which is a great set-up) I agree with you a BS>Fred though that we can go overboard by trying to do it all through BS>legislation! Thank you for your support. --Fred, 9:10 PM February 14, 1990 --- ž EZ 1.24 #135 ž RelayNet (tm) ONLINE Services Conference Host Date: 02-15-90 (10:16) Number: 175 To: BETSY SCHWARTZ Refer#: 173 From: KAREN ROCKOW Read: YES Subj: NO CIGAR, ANYONE ARRRGGH! Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE I've become used to a smoke-free environment. My parents smoked when I was a kid, but in the past few years, I've become very sensitive to smoke (I don't even like wood fires much), and find that I usually start to cough when someone smokes a cigarette. Pipe smoke I can deal with; cigars are another story. The problem with non-smoking sections in restaurants is that they're poorly conceived. I've seen ones that ran around the periphery of the restaurant; someone at the next table might be smoking with impunity. I wish taht restaurants would put those smoke-eating gadgets around at smoking tables. As someone else here said, I'm completely in support of your right to kill yourself if you wish, but please don't take me with you! --- ž Via ProDoor 3.2įR ž Channel 1 (tm) Date: 02-15-90 (19:26) Number: 176 To: TOM REVAY Refer#: 170 From: ZZZ ZZZ Read: YES Subj: MASS STATE LAW Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE "Z" "Z" DINER'S REPORT BY A DINER FOR A DINER ! ----------------------------------------------------------------- Tom, The Mass State law as it is written states" No person shall smoke in any restaurant with a seating capacity of seventy-five or more persons, except in an area which has been specifically designated as a smoking area. In such case, smoking may be permitted in an areas or areas that have been specifically designated by notice or sign, only if nonsmoking areas of sufficient size and capacity are available to accommodate nonsmokers. Smoking and nonsmoking areas in any restaurant need not be separated by walls, partitions or other physical barriers; provided, however,that nonsmoking areas in any part of a restaurant, as provided herein shall be no less than two hundred square feet of floor space." Local communities have the right to amend this legislation to be more stringent than the State Law, which 60 communities have done already. The question then arises, what is a restaurant? I called the City Clerk's Office of Boston. Their reply was, the difference between a restaurant or CV (Common Victualler) license and a tavern license was a restaurant MUST serve food and can stay open 7 days a week. A tavern license may or may not serve food and can only stay open 6 days a week (I assume they must close Sundays). When I asked about what the relationship was in regards to the Mass Smoking Law, they where unable to help any further. Next I called Secretary Connolly's Office of Citizen Information. They were able to read the law. But would not go as far to interpret the meaning of what a restaurant was, or say if this law would apply to taverns. They did refer me to the State Dept of Public Health: Non-Smoking and Public Health. I spoke to Martha who told me that if food service was incidental to an establishment; that people's purpose for going there is not to eat (i.e. bar) then said establishment would be exempt from the law. Over all, the interpretation that I perceived was, a public (not private) establishment that has a seating capacity of 75 or more and serves a menu where the food is prepared on the premises and opens 7 days a week. They are responsible to follow the laws set forth by the State. She also told me that if you feel that a restaurant is in violation of the non-smoking ordinance, you can write to: Thomas Coffill Principal Health Inspector Inspection Services Department 1010 Mass Ave 5th floor Boston, Mass. 02118 or call (617)-727-0732 I have not been able to visit Champions Sports Bar at the time I wrote this. I will, this week. If the above criteria is not met and they are not exempt from the smoking laws, I will speak to the manager. If I do not get any satisfaction (which I doubt) I will write and call Thomas Coffill. Please keep me and everyone else informed if you decide to follow through. I will also be updating everyone in regards to any pertinent information. Chow Mein "Z" P.S. Thank you for pointing out my spelling error so genitally. "Z" Date: 02-15-90 (19:52) Number: 178 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: ZZZ ZZZ Read: (N/A) Subj: Brunch at Cladagh Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE "Z" "Z" DINER'S REPORT BY A DINER, FOR A DINER! THE CLADDAGH LIMITED NON-SMOKING SECTION. Cash, Amex, 355 Columbus Ave. Mastercard & Boston, Ma. 02116 Visa accepted. Full Liquor license Not fully accessible for the physically impaired. ------------------------------------------------------------------ The Claddagh is located on the corner of Columbus and Dartmouth Street. It's a short walk from Copley T stop. I went to the Claddagh after seeing an advertisement for their $6.95 All You Can Eat Sunday Brunch. I am always willing to gamble on a bargain. When I arrived (about 2:00 pm) I wasn't sure what to envision. When I left I was baffled. I can only compare what I felt to dreams I've had, where two places are combined into one. In this case it was three places combined into one. I walk in the door, the first thing I notice is a bar. I thought I was in a pub environment (dreary). I turn and look to the opposite way, I see what seemed to be a pretty upscale dining room. Then I was brought downstairs to where the brunch was being offered. I got the feeling of being in a remodeled basement of someone's house. Low ceilings and every 15 feet or so the carpet would alternate between red and green. The brunch cost $6.95. It offered a Steamship round, no big deal. Scrambled eggs that were too watery. Cajun chicken, it was Chicken Cacciatore with kidney beans. Seafood Newburg, I could not identify this without asking. My first impression was Tuna Casserole. Beef Hash, nothing to write home about. Sausage and Bacon, tasted like Sausage and Bacon, but cold. Assorted salads, too many mayonnaise-based salads for my liking. Clam of Seafood Chowder, it was good but could have used less salt. Assorted breads, (none of the servers were able to identify any of the breads I was eating) pastries and desserts. All the orange juice you can drink, and coffee. The coffee was charged separately, not included in the $6.95 charge. The service was poor, even for a brunch. The brunch was setup downstairs. A big negative, if you are in a wheel chair or have difficulty walking. The basement does not offer seating for non-smokers and I don't think that the ventilation would be adequate enough if it did. You are able to eat upstairs where they do have a non-smoking section. Unless you have a massive group of people that you are forced to bring out to eat, I don't believe that the brunch Claddagh offers is worth it. Better quality in cafeterias. Chow Mein ! "Z" --- ž Via ProEdit 3.2įR ž Channel 1 (tm) Date: 02-15-90 (19:53) Number: 179 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: ZZZ ZZZ Read: (N/A) Subj: Culinary Quiz number 2 Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE "Z" CULINARY TERMS (NOT CULINARY USER FRIENDLY) Can you guess or do you know which culinary definition is correct. Only one of the four options is a true definition. The other options are blatant lies. The answers next week. Have fun!!! ----------------------------------------------------------------- 1) Why does Aluminum Foil have a shiny side and a dull side? a) No particular reason, just a result of the manufacturing process. b) The shiny side to heat and the dull side to keep food cold or frozen. When you want food hot, you wrap food with shiny side facing food to reflect heat back into the food. You do the opposite with cold so as to reflect heat away from food. c) Aluminum Foil isn't really made from Aluminum. In fact Aluminum foil should be called Bauxite Foil. Bauxite is a whitish metal used in manufacturing what we call Aluminum Foil. The reason for the different shades is because of the softness of the metal. To protect the metal from cracking, a chemical is added (lacimehc) that dulls one side. This helps to identify the side that has been through the rollers, so as not to be rolled again and cause cracking. d) The two tones are caused by the chemical Lacimehc. Lacimehc is added to give additional strength and to slow down the decay of the foil when against acidic foods. 2) Chou: a) Chou, in French translation means cabbage. Choux is the french plural of chou. Choux pastry is usually eaten cold. Chocolate Eclairs and cream puffs are examples of how chou pastry is used. b) Chou, Chow, Ciao, Choux, Chinese, American, Italian and French slang for food. Example: Let's get some chow. c) A baking term used when filling pastries. Example: Eclairs are Chou (stuffed or filled) with cream. Jelly donuts are Chou (filled) with jelly. d) Sogn Chou, A Chinese immigrant chef who at the end of the 19th century invented Chop Suey for his American customers. 3) Egyptian Lotus: a) A winged insect, related to the grasshopper, considered a delicacy throughout N. Africa and Asia. Always eaten alive. b) An edible water lily found in Egypt and Asia. The leaves and root may be eaten as a vegetable, while the pod-like fruit contains kernels which are almond like in flavor. c) A ceremonious seating position that Hindu monks use while eating Bshioma (tofu) prior to evening prayer service. A.K.A. Mother India Lotus. d) A Chinese pastry served during Dim Sum or celebrations. Known to bring good luck during courting. 4) Eierkuckas: a) Nothing, I made this word up. (Ha Ha!) b) Also known as Ethiopian Yirgacheffe, A highly acidic, full bodied coffee distinguished by it's rose like bouquet. c) Alsatian pancakes which are very substantial, served either sweet or savory. They are very rich but very good. d) A Greek olive variety, found on the northern cost of Greece in Kastoria. 5) Humming Ale: a) A strong beer, Stingo. Both humming and stingo are figurative words deriving from the effect expected, alleged or actual of the beer drinker. b) First used as an elixir in the 1300's , Humming Ail (What ails you) became Humming Ale in the 1600's along with the transformation of the word Ail (pain or agony) to Ale (liquor made from malt.) Ingredients: Fermented honey, molasses, malt. c) A sweet liquid used in Australia to trap humming birds. The feathers were used ceremoniously usually weddings and the meat cooked similar to quail or squab. d) Also known as Ginger Beer or Ginger Ale a slightly alcoholic beverage. Popular in Britain, made from ginger, sugar, cream of tartar. --- ž Via ProEdit 3.2įR ž Channel 1 (tm) Date: 02-20-90 (15:50) Number: 188 To: ZZZ ZZZ Refer#: 176 From: TOM REVAY Read: YES Subj: MASS STATE LAW Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE ZZ>Tom, ZZ> The Mass State law as it is written states "No person shall ZZ>[...] Thanks for your information. I'll be interested to hear what you find at _Champions_. One more thing, Mr. ZZZ -- you've really brought some life to this message area (Boston). You're doing a great job, sez me. Keep it up! 8-) ZZ>P.S. Thank you for pointing out my spelling error so genitally. "Z" Yer welcome! 8-) ...................Tom ÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄ I hate department-store door handles designed for PULLING, when they want you to PUSH. ÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄ --- ž DeLuxe 1.11į18 #2345 Date: 02-22-90 (12:06) Number: 190 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: KEVIN DAVIS Read: (N/A) Subj: Jamaica Plain eats Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Does anyone know of any decent places to eat in Jamaica Plain? My friend just set up an office out there and she and I will be spending a lot of time out that way. I'm interested in any input here. The only place we've tried is Center Street Cafe. It is an adorable little place out near Forest Hills that has fantastic food (surprisingly imaginative, like omelettes stuffed with cheese and vegetarian chili served with homemade salsa and cheese biscuits) at great prices. We're looking for more of the same and anything else. Thanks all. Kevin --- ž Via ProDoor 3.2įR ž Channel 1 (tm) Date: 02-22-90 (21:52) Number: 193 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: ZZZ ZZZ Read: (N/A) Subj: New Korea Restaurant Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE "Z" "Z"DINER'S REPORT BY A DINER, FOR A DINER! NEW KOREA RESTAURANT Open everyday 12-10:00 pm Cash, Amex, 1281 Cambridge St. (617) 236-0200 Mastercard & Cambridge, Mass. (617) 491-9555 Visa accepted. (Inman Square) No Smoking Section Full Liquor License Fully accessible for the physically impaired. (Bathrooms may cause problem because they are narrow) ------------------------------------------------------------------ Whether we're motivated socially or morally, we constantly shape, form, create, and validate our values. I occasionally have what I call a value crisis. What it usually means is, that I have to admit that I was wrong. On the other side of the coin, I occasionally have a value rejuvenation. I consider myself a person who believes/demands that no matter how much, or little I spend I expect at minimum... sincere and friendly, knowledgeable service. It doesn't matter if it is a person pumping gas or a waiter in a five star restaurant. When I leave, if I don't get what I feel is minimum service, that establishment doesn't get my business. I was starting to wonder if maybe my service requirements were too stringent, when low and behold, I had the pleasure of a super charged revitalization in the New Korea Restaurant at Inman Square, Cambridge. Inman Square in my opinion is a heaven for the adventuresome diner; your choice: Haitian, Chinese, Indian, or Korean Cuisine, a sub shop and I must not forget to mention The East Coast Grill all on the same block. With the exception of the E.C. Grill, the prices are not too bad either. We arrived at The New Korea Restaurant around 5:15 pm. When we entered the restaurant I wondered if maybe it was a Chinese restaurant pretending to be Korean. My apprehension was immediately quelled upon receiving my menu. The New Korea's menu is easy to read and organized. I would wish that they give better descriptions of each item. But, not to worry, the staff is extremely knowledgeable and couldn't be happier to answer any and all of your questions. For appetizers we had Mandoo Tui Gim (Fried Dumplings) 6 for $5.90. They look a lot like Chinese fried dumplings, but the quality is much better. Instead of just a meat stuffing you get a nice balance of vegetable and beef, wrap in a pastry that is not chewy or soggy (Chinese dumplings can be too chewy for my liking). It is lightly fried with a little hint of crispiness and no residual grease. For Entr‚es we had Gal Bee Gui (marinated b.b.q beef short ribs) $13.90 You get about 11 oz of the tastiest short ribs, lean, marinated, tender, and sizzling when they arrive. They come taken off the bone, sliced thin, thickness of two quarters stacked on top of each other. Our other entr‚e was Kan Fung Ki $11.90. This Item is described on the menu as "Beef or Chicken served in a zesty sauce". I would not have ordered it from looking on the menu. This is an example where the lack of a description did an injustice to an entr‚e. If it had not been for the Chef and his recommendation we would have passed up what turned out to be an excellent choice. I would describe it as a dish that offers a choice of thinly sliced beef or chicken (We ordered chicken) dipped in a light egg batter then cooked in a spicy red pepper sauce made from red chili pepper, paprika, garlic and honey. When it is served the chicken is moist and tender and hot, not dried out and above all it was superb. All the entr‚es are served with a bottomless bowl of rice, a healthy portion of Homemade Kim Chi (spicy pickled cabbage) if you are a fan of Kim Chi, ask if they have any of their special reserve in the back (not for the timid or weak). Also served as condiments are spinach, sprouts,and marinated dicon radish and cucumber. All make an excellent accompaniment to the entr‚es. What excites me the most about New Korea besides the food is that the people who run New Korea care about their guest. From the cup of tea that is offered as soon as you sit down, the bottomless bowl of rice, or the refills on any of the condiments. At the end of your meal, you get an orange decoratively sliced. If this doesn't satisfy you, the service will. The staff is friendly to the point where you wish they could sit and join you. They are proficient about every menu item. I'm sure that they must help in the kitchen because their descriptions are detailed. As guests walk in, our waitperson (Marion) would greet most by their first names and the guests would respond with the same warmth as if it were a long time friend. I have never been in a restaurant where I felt more at home. I believe that you will share my sentiment. Give it a try. "Z" Date: 02-22-90 (21:58) Number: 194 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: ZZZ ZZZ Read: (N/A) Subj: Culinary Quiz 2 Answers Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE "Z" CULINARY TERMS (NOT CULINARY USER FRIENDLY) "Z" Quiz 2 Answers 1-A, 2-A, 3-B, 4-C, 5-A, --- ž Via ProEdit 3.2įR ž Channel 1 (tm) Date: 02-23-90 (16:00) Number: 198 To: KEVIN DAVIS Refer#: 190 From: TOM REVAY Read: YES Subj: Jamaica Plain eats Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE KD>Does anyone know of any decent places to eat in Jamaica Plain? My KD>friend just set up an office out there and she and I will be spending KD>a lot of time out that way. I'm interested in any input here. The KD>only place we've tried is Center Street Cafe. It is an adorable KD>little place out near Forest Hills that has fantastic food ---------------------------------------------------------------------- A brief, hackneyed walk down Centre Street's Restaurant Row (by a JayPee Resident) Acapulco Mexican Restaurant, near the corner of South Huntington and Centre: mushy beans, so-so salsa, not especially good. Triple D's, corner of S. Huntington & Centre: decent pizza, good soups, primo onion rings. Stay away from the salads, they don't give enough consideration to getting good veggies. Centre Street Cafe, near Pond Street and Centre: just as you say -- nice omlettes, excellent vegetarian chili, good coffee, cornbread, and desserts. In the evening, however, the prices go up surprisingly high. Stick with lunches and weekend brunches, and you'll do fine. Galway House, near Centre and Green Street: an Irish bar with food as Irish as spaghetti and meatballs. Seriously -- they serve so-so Italian. Lots of food for the price, but the lasagna tends to be mushy and they use too much sauce. Today's Bread Cafe, near Centre and Green Street: salads, sandwiches, croissants, muffins, all excellent quality. Unfortunately, they're too trendy for their own good -- you'll pay $4.00+ for a cheese sandwich here, and small muffins are $.95. They do sell 'em, though, because there's constantly a line across the place. Their staff seems an uninterested bunch, like so many other counter-type places ... they don't always seem particularly attentive to their customers, and I get the feeling they'd rather a lot of people there just go home. Who says we're developing a "service" based economy? Same Old Place Pizza, across Centre from Today's Bread: I used to eat here a lot. Got tired of it. Doyle's has better pizza. Five Seasons, near Centre and Green Street: macrobiotic, semi-vegetarian. Excellent quality food, but a tad overpriced. At one time, their vegetarian meal of beans, rice, vegetables, a sea vegetable, soup, and herb tea, was a bargain at only about $4.00. Now it weighs in at over $7.00, too much in my opinion. Still, I eat there for a change of pace. Try their tempeh dishes. Their vegetarian chef-like salad is probably the biggest-dish-for-the-buck value on the menu. A couple months ago, posters advertising the place as a luncheon spot appeared around JP, with coupons attached for luncheon discounts. Expect to wait in line in the evenings, especially on weekends. A WARNING: AVOID THE COFFEE AT ALL COSTS! Apparently, they make a single pot in the morning, sell very little, and within an hour it's bitter enough to peel paint! A HORROR! The Irish bar across from the Galway House, forget its name: this place is pretty good for lunches. I had the best egg salad plate ever in this place. Reasonably priced. Dunkin Donuts, near South Street and Centre: best cuppajava in JP. FINALLY -- I've already written about Doyle's, on Washington Street. To walk there from Centre, hoof it down Green Street away from the Pond, and turn right after the Green Street Orange Line T station. Walk along the Orange Line to Williams Street, where the JP High sits, and Doyle's is on your left, at the corner of Williams and Washington. This place is really where you wanna go. Terrific pizza, decent salads (the spinich salad w/ bleu cheese is a baaah-gan), great mozzarella sticks and onion rings, and all very reasonably priced. Don't miss this place. ---------------------------------------------------------------------- That should cover it. If I'm wrong about any of these, contact my attorneys, Bear and Bear .... ...................Tom ÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄ Chinese food has a will of its own. -- Sparrow (New York poet) ÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄ --- ž DeLuxe 1.11į18 #2345 Date: 03-01-90 (21:51) Number: 204 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: ZZZ ZZZ Read: (N/A) Subj: Scotch n'Sirloin Review Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE "Z" "Z" DINER'S REPORT BY A DINER, FOR A DINER ! Scotch 'N Sirloin Hours can vary depending on Cash,Amex 77 North Washington St sporting events, so call: MC/VISA Boston, Mass 02144 (617) 723-3677 Accepted. -------------------------------------------------------------------- Scotch & Sirloin used to be one of my favorites. At this point, I ask myself why? S & S is on the overpriced border. Entree's come with a medium sized salad bar that lacks creativity and fresh produce. Vegetables, potatoes and rice are extra ($3.50 for veg and $1.50 for rice or potatoe). They offer menus on a lunch box (cute) and exhibit a wonderful view. S & S is located in a redesigned old factory located in the North End. The restaurant itself has excellent character. For appetizers I had oysters that were slightly bigger than quarters (6 for $6.50) my dining guests had sauteed mushroom caps (about 12 small to med sized caps $3.50) The oysters were o.k. but rinsed under water (probably to remove any shell pieces left from the shucker) which washed away any flavor. The mushroom caps were also O.K. For entrees we had lobster and teriyaki combo. (1 1/2 lbs lobster and 6-7 oz marinated sirloin $26.95) Petite Teriyaki sirloin( 6-7oz marinated sirloin $12.75). and Texas bbq beef ribs ( 5 ribs, meaty, the bbq sauce tasted like it came from a jar $13.95) We all agreed that the teriyaki was salty for our liking. One note to mention, If you are a prime rib lover (I am), my experiences have been all but positive. I ask for rare I'm told that I should have arrived earlier (this was at 7:00) then when a guest of mine wanted it well done it took two tries to get it right. Of course by then everyone else had finished their meal. One other problem that I experience with their prime ribs is that they just run out. Over all S & S has a wonderful location with a view of Boston Garden and if your lucky a visit from a Boston Celtic or two. The club, City Lights is attached. There's no cover charge if you have dinner. S & S offers valet parking otherwise you're on your own. S & S has the ability to be a great place. I feel that they are confused, they offer the worst of two worlds: the prices and menu style (if you ignore the lunch box) of a high price establishment and, the atmosphere of a sports bar. If they were to concentrate on one style or the other, S & S would offer a dining experience to remember... Date: 03-02-90 (22:40) Number: 206 To: ZZZ ZZZ Refer#: 204 From: FREDERICK LONSDALE Read: YES (Has Replies) Subj: King & I Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE ZZ> "Z" Whoever you are, I had a late lunch, this afternoon at the King & I at 145 Charles Street in Boston. It was pretty good. The prices were reasonable. $5.75 for the Scallop Supreme. They specialize in Thai Cuisine. They also have a 259 Newbury Street location. The bill for three with a full caraffe of Chablis and Coffee was $27.00 including tax and a 15% tip. You might give it a try for a review here. If you already did, I must have missed it! --Fred, 9:17 PM March 2, 1990 --- ž EZ 1.24 #135 ž RelayNet (tm) ONLINE Services Conference Host Date: 03-03-90 (22:15) Number: 207 To: FREDERICK LONSDALE Refer#: 206 From: ZZZ ZZZ Read: YES Subj: KING & I Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE The King and I, has just been added to my list of "Must Do's" Thank's "Z" Date: 03-06-90 (15:09) Number: 208 To: ZZZ ZZZ Refer#: NONE From: ERIC NEWHOUSE Read: YES (Has Replies) Subj: BORDER CAFE Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Could you possibly review some restaurants in Harvard Square, Cambridge? More specifically, could you review the Border Cafe on Church St? The Border is a very reasonably priced ($6.95 for giant sized Fajitas and $9.95 for STEAK fajitas) and popular (don't go on Fri or Sat night) Mexican/Cajun restaurant. Thanks.. -Eric --- ž Via ProDoor 3.2įR ž Channel 1 (tm) Date: 03-06-90 (20:42) Number: 209 To: ZZZ ZZZ Refer#: NONE From: MICHAEL SALETNIK Read: YES (Has Replies) Subj: Another review request Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE I'd also like to see a review of Rudy's, a *fabulous* Tex-Mex place with great drink / food prices. It's on Broadway in Teele Square, Somerville (where Broadway joins Holland Ave). Thanks, Michael --- ž EZ 1.24 #213 ž "Kill it with electricity" - actual graffitti Date: 03-06-90 (22:41) Number: 210 To: ERIC NEWHOUSE Refer#: 208 From: ZZZ ZZZ Read: YES (Has Replies) Subj: BORDER CAFE Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE I tried dining at Border Cafe about two weeks ago. It was packed and the wait was an hour long. We decided instead to dine at Casa Mexico. Expect this review in about two weeks. As for B.C., we'll try again at a future date. Since B.C. opened about four years it has always been packed. I imagine the prices as you mentioned and the quality of the restaurant must have something to do with it. I have dined there before and was very pleased, unfortunately, I do not remember enough to write an accurate review. Thank you for your prodding, it will not be ignored. "Z" Date: 03-06-90 (22:52) Number: 211 To: MICHAEL SALETNIK Refer#: 209 From: ZZZ ZZZ Read: YES Subj: ANOTHER REVIEW REQUEST Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE I used to live on Belknap St. off Broadway. I've dined at Rudy's often. I drove by this week and by the look of things I thought it was closed down. I liked Rudy's when I used to dine there. It is quite the university hangout(Tufts). I did not like the cleanliness that much. By the looks of things now, I don't believe that things have improved. If in the future, the front of Rudy's looks as if it is still in operation, I will b happy to dine and review your suggestion. Thanks "Z" Date: 03-07-90 (18:34) Number: 213 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: TOM REVAY Read: (N/A) Subj: The NPR Pledge Breaks! Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Oh, lawdy, lawdy, I do HATE "Pledge Week" on NPR! Starting TODAY, WBUR started asking for money every ten minutes, and now I hear ol' Eric Inna Evening Jackson saying that 'GBH's Pledge Week will be from March 10 to March 18. Last time I checked, a week had seven days. How come 'GBH gets nine-day weeks? About 'GBH -- it's funny, they go by the abbreviation as I've shown it, but in Merry Olde England these three letters stand for Grevious Bodily Harm. And that's what I'd enjoy inflicting when they start asking for $$$$. Which is not to say they're not -worth- it -- of course they are, and every year, I pay my money. Plus, the company I work for will double-match the donation. And yet, every few months, 'GBH threaten Grevious Bodily Harm to my wallet, sending me these begging letters, asking for more and telling me they need my -extra- gift so badly. They used to send me their magazine. This year, I told 'em to keep the doggone things. See, they used to have a magazine for the TV, and a short program listing for the radio, and that wasn't so bad. Then they combined the two publications into a fatter, glossier magazine, which in itself isn't so bad, but what the magazine represents is worse. It's LOADED with advertising! Yes, the public broadcasting "We don't sell advertising!" magazine has lots of ads. What's more, they're not your average "Good Luck! Complements of Joe's Greasy Spoon" donation-style ads like you might expect a non-profit corporation to carry. Far from it. They're ads for Rolls Royces and Range Rovers, real estate companies advertising "Investment properties, starting at $500,000," and banks which wouldn't look a customer with my wad in the eye as they speak to "The Preferred Customer." Well, why not let these Preferred Customers, who presumably prefer to read the 'GBH Magazine every month, -pay- for WGBH? It's clear that I'm not the kind of person who WGBH considers their "average" reader; after all, why else would these fancy companies buy the ads unless they expected to reach their target customers? WGBH must be able to present the advertisers with evidence of exactly -who- reads their magazine. So why don't they bother those people, and stop sending me more begging letters every three months? Anyway, I'll continue giving GBH my geld every year, and I'll continue having my company match it, generously. The way I look at it, it gives me permission to complain about the pledge breaks. After all, I -paid- my chunk! Now if everybody else would just ante up, and we can get back to the jazz! ...................Tom ÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄ Better to feign vice than virtue. -- Sparrow (New York poet) ÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄÄ --- ž DeLuxe 1.11į18 #2345 Date: 03-07-90 (20:46) Number: 214 To: ZZZ ZZZ Refer#: NONE From: ERIC NEWHOUSE Read: YES Subj: BORDER CAFE Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE First, thank you for reviewing Casa Mexico. I have been there once, and I am especially interested in hearing what you think of the restaurant. As I recall, it was moderately priced but the food was definitely not anything special. As far as the Border I am a regular diner there. ZZZ, if you are going to dine there in the future, I *STRONGLY* recommend that you either: 1. Go on a Mon, Tue, or Wed 2. Go at 5:00pm any day 3. Go for lunch. Otherwise you will consistently run into the hour long wait. One strategy that I've used once was to go at 6:30 on a Sat night, put my name on the list, go watch a movie (Dream Team) at the neighboring Cinema, and then go back to Border afterwards to eat. In terms of food, I can tell you what to expect and give you some recommendations. All servings are huge and a tremendous value. In particular, here are some recommendations: 1. For Appetizers: Casa-dee-as are a meal in and of themselves. In fact, this appetizer really serves two. The price is $3.89 cheese, $4.99 to add chicken or beef, and $.75 extra for either sour cream or guacamole. I recommend the Chicken. The Buffalo Wings at Border are also excellent, but since you can get good buffalo wings at a lot of restaurants, I usually pass on them. Also, as with all Buffalo Wings, they are slightly messy. 2. For the entr‚. You won't go wrong. Your major decision will be whether to order Caj£n or Mexican. Although the Mexican is not authentic (I have eaten in both Mexico and many Los Angeles authentic restaurants), it is still excellent. I usually go Mexican because of my inherent love of the cuisine, but my girlfriend loves the Caj£n French Quarter Chicken ($5.95). On the mexican end: Cadillac Fajitas ($9.95) - These are steak fajitas. Only order these if you are very hungry or if you have someone to share them with. All the fixings are included (of course)_ Chicken Fajitas ($6.95) - also excellent and plentiful Burros ($4.95) - An excellent cross between a burito and an enchilada. Chicken in a Flour Tortilla with Melted Cheese on Top. Steak Tacos ($5.95) - Also excellent. Always pay the extra few dollars for steak over beef when you can. It's well worth it. All meals come with rice and beans. The beans are quite unexceptional, but the rice is quite good, so I order a double helping of rice when I remember instead of the beans. Drinks: Border makes some of the best Margaritas in town. Unlike the food though, the prices are on par with most restaurants. Standard Margarita/Strawberry/Melon/Peach/Raspberry ($3.95) Jos‚ Cuervo (add $1) Gold Margarita - worth trying once; the best they have ($5.95). Border also has a full bar, is accessable for the physically impaired (in off hours esp), and has smoking and non-smoking sections. If you are going dry on the night, the softdrinks come in 64oz cups (for $1 or so). Hope this whets your appetite! -Eric --- ž Via ProDoor 3.2įR ž Channel 1 (tm) Date: 03-08-90 (00:40) Number: 215 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: RICK MENAUL Read: YES (Has Replies) Subj: Boston brunch Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Can anyone recommed a good restaurant in Boston for Sunday brunch? I'm looking for a nice place, not as nice or as expensive as say the Four Seasons or the Bay Tower Room, but something a bit classier and more personal than Friday's. Rick --- ž DeLuxe 1.11 #5318 What garlic is to salad, insanity is to art. Date: 03-09-90 (21:18) Number: 217 To: RICK MENAUL Refer#: 215 From: FRED HAPGOOD Read: YES Subj: Boston brunch Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE > Can anyone recommed a good restaurant in Boston for Sunday > brunch? I'm looking for a nice place, not as nice or as > expensive as say the Four Seasons or the Bay Tower Room, but > something a bit classier and more personal than Friday's. Rocco's in Park Square (in the Transportation Bldg.). The decor and cuisine are forever young; ie, fresh, imaginative, energetic, interesting. Had the best hash of my life there -- made with three different kinds of ham ... --- ž EZ 1.26 ž South End, Boston Date: 03-11-90 (21:32) Number: 219 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: ZZZ ZZZ Read: YES (Has Replies) Subj: Review of CIROS Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE "Z" "Z"DINER'S REPORT BY A DINER, FOR A DINER! CIROS Non-Smoking section available. Cash, Amex, 239 Harvard St. (617) 277-7112 Mastercard& Brookline. Mass Visa accepted. Full Liquor license Fully accessible for the physically impaired. (They request that you call in advance so that suitable arrangement can be made to make your visit as convenient as possible) ------------------------------------------------------------------ I think I have found one of the last of a dying species. A true dining special for the whole family, "All you can eat pasta dinner". $5.95 for adults and $2.00 (Yes, TWO dollars) for children 12 and under. I know what you're thinking, a hotel pan, erupting with mounds of pasta that is so over cooked that the leftovers are used to plaster walls; topped with a canned sauce with some dried parsley added so as to be called home made. If you weren't cynically pondering this seemingly too good to be true offer, I certainly was. Serendipity!! ( I hope that I used this phrase correctly) Anyways, I was completely wrong. A choice of Pasta della casa (HOME-MADE) Linguine, Angel Hair, Ziti, Shells, Fettuccine and Fusilli. Topped with a choice of Red clam sauce, White clam sauce, Alfredo sauce, Marinara sauce, Meat sauce or Imported Olive Oil and Fresh Garlic sauce. You can order any combination of pasta and sauce. I recommend that you order half orders so you'll have room to enjoy everything. My favorite was the White Clam sauce. A nice balance of fresh garlic and imported olive oil and clams. The sauce is full of flavor and incredibly light. This sauce can easily be lost with a heavy pasta. Linguine would be best for a nice harmony of pasta to sauce. The Alfredo sauce was a superior sauce. It defends it's delicate bouquet of flavors with any of the pastas. I had it with Ziti. The Marinara and Meat sauces are also wonderful and good for the not so adventurous diners such as young children. You have to be a die hard garlic and olive oil fan to enjoy the imported olive oil and fresh garlic sauce because, that is all it is. If you are unable to make it for the Pasta Smorgasbord, fear not, Ciros's regular menu is also fantastic. Vitello (Veal), Pollo (Chicken), Pesce (fish), Bistecca E Cotolette (Steaks & Chops) as well as Antipasti, Zuppe and Insalate make up a complete menu of Italian specialities. The prices are not what I consider a family plan, the average entr‚e is about $12.95 The highest $16.95, for Frutti Di Mare Scampi. Appetizers run in the $5.00 to $9.00 range. The service is friendly but lacks consistency. Depending on the waitperson the service can be the best to the worst. The Restaurant itself is clean, and has the perfect non-smoking section. My over all opinion is that the pasta special can't be beat, if it can, I want to know and I'm sure the rest of the readers want to know,,,, WHERE. The consistency of the service and appearance of the waitstaff has to be improved before I would justify paying the prices Ciros imposes. Until the next time we mEAT, Ciao Mein "Z" Date: 03-13-90 (21:52) Number: 221 To: RICK MENAUL Refer#: 215 From: ZZZ ZZZ Read: YES Subj: BOSTON BRUNCH Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Rick, Tuner Fisheries Sunday Brunch $19.95, A decent semi-elegant brunch. A review to follow in the near future. Top of the Hob, $15.??, A great view, (on a clear day) service poor and a bit snobbish. But because it is a buffet brunch ,it shouln't be to much of a problem. (a review to follow.) St Botolph, Not a Buffet style ,but excellent service and food(limited set price, brunch menu) I can't remember the price off the top of my head right now ,But I believe it was under $14.00. "Z" Date: 03-14-90 (02:11) Number: 222 To: ZZZ ZZZ Refer#: 219 From: ERIC NEWHOUSE Read: YES (Has Replies) Subj: Review of CIROS Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE ZZZ, I'm sorry to add another imposition to your arlready thorough reviews, but do you think you could include MBTA directions in your reviews? I'm not asking for anything fancy: perhaps just something to the effect of (ie. for the Border Cafe) - "Redline to Harvard, exit to Church St, 1/2 block West (across from Harvard Yard)." ... One line should do it. Thanks much.. ! -Eric --- * Via ProDoor 3.1R ž Channel 1 (tm) Date: 03-14-90 (02:15) Number: 223 To: ZZZ ZZZ Refer#: NONE From: ERIC NEWHOUSE Read: YES (Has Replies) Subj: BRUNCHES Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Where are these restaurants (ie. Turner Fisheries, Top of the Hob, St. Botolph, etc)? As it happens, I'm looking to go to Sunday Brunch this Sunday. In the past I've really enjoyed 33 Dunster St (Harvard Square); they have a $13 buffet lunch that's better than anything I've found in Boston. Coffee and Orange Juice is extra, however.. Well worth it still. --- * Via ProDoor 3.1R ž Channel 1 (tm) Date: 03-15-90 (18:51) Number: 224 To: ERIC NEWHOUSE Refer#: 223 From: ZZZ ZZZ Read: YES Subj: BRUNCHES Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE -> Where are these restaurants (ie. Turner Fisheries, Top of the Hob, -> St. Botolph, etc)? As it happens, I'm looking to go to Sunday Brunch Tuner Fisheries is located Copley Mall at the bottom of the Westen Hotel. Top of the Hob, 52 or 54th floor of the Prudential building. St Botolph, is located on St Botolph street in the Back Bay. "Z" Date: 03-14-90 (15:38) Number: 225 To: ERIC NEWHOUSE Refer#: 222 From: ZZZ ZZZ Read: YES (Has Replies) Subj: REVIEW OF CIROS Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Sorry about that, take green line to the Coolidge Corner stop. (Harvard and Beacon) walk up Harvard towards Longwood and it's in this area, about two blocks from Beacon street on the left. "Z" Date: 03-15-90 (19:52) Number: 228 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: ZZZ ZZZ Read: (N/A) Subj: Casa Mexico in Harvard Sq Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE "Z" "Z"DINER'S REPORT BY A DINER, FOR A DINER! Casa Mexico Non-Smoking section available. Cash, Amex, 75 Winthrop St. (617) 491-4552 Mastercard & Cambridge, MA. Visa accepted. NOT accessible for the physically impaired. Full Bar ----------------------------------------------------------------- After being buried alive with the mega-openings of Tex-Mex establishments, authentic Mexican Restaurants are starting to reappear again . Yeah!!! In Harvard Square, there exists a decent Mexican restaurant called Casa Mexico. It was opened in 1967 by Dave Sherwood. I must warn you. If you don't like crowded (I emphasize crowded) dining arrangements or if you're big or have any mobility problems, then Casa Mexico is definitely a place that you should AVOID. There is very little room between tables and you have to be able to twist and contort your body to get around your fellow diners. The atmosphere is pleasant (if you don't mind the above). The decor and crammed dining room help to create a unique dining experience. It is a little too dark for my liking but the darkness adds to the ambience. Casa Mexico's menu is a well organized and easy to read. The descriptions are fairly detailed. The average price of entr‚es is about $12.00. Appetizers around $5.50. After you are seated, you are given chips and a moderately spicy salsa. The chips were fresh and the salsa has an excellent cilantro finish. We started out by ordering the soup of the day (Pinto bean) $3.75. My dining companion suggested, "always try the soup of the day", he's never been disappointed. I had the De Aguacate a la Casa Mexico (chilled avocado soup) $5.25. The soup was O.K. a little too bland. Actually, the soup was kind of dull. As for my partner he was once again satisfied with a content, Ahhhhhh. We ordered Guacamole $5.50, you get about 6oz of Guacamole, plenty to go with your chips and to use as a condiment with the rest of your meal. The appetizer that I truly enjoyed was Chiles Rellenos. To best describe this dish, I use the description that the menu gives: "Select whole chile peppers, sauteed in a unique egg batter, stuffed with delicious blend of melted cheeses and panfried to a golden turn. Maravilloso!!" $6.25. Entr‚es, we ordered Camarones Al Cilantro $14.25. 5 large, plump, juicy shrimp served in a coriander sauce. The coriander sauce was an explosion of flavors. It was very good and very mild as far as spiciness is concerned. M¢le Poblano $12.25, 7-8 oz of succulent chicken breast, very moist and tender. I dislike sounding cliche but the chicken was moist and tender. The MolŠ sauce was also very satisfying. A healthy bit of HOT that can only be explained as titillating. If you like MolŠ sauce, then I believe that you will be impressed with Casa Mexico's MolŠ sauce. If you never had a MolŠ sauce then I recommend that your first experience be with Casa Mexico. For dessert, we had Flan (egg custard) $1.95. It was good but then there is little you can do to make flan better or worst. For the finale we had Cafe Casa Mexico $1.85. It's coffee sweetened with a mixture of herbs and spices. It was a nice ending. The boost of caffeine gives you the necessary energy to take a walk through Harvard Square and work off some of your meal. Over all I felt that Casa Mexico was a pleasant dining experience. The service, I thought was poor, I felt as if our waiter was apathetic with his job and less interested with us. But the food and the atmosphere compensated for the lack of service. A friend of mine complained to me about their smoking section. Tables that are designated non-smoking can be changed without notice or consideration to the non-smokers who are already dining in that section. My friend commented about this problem to management, he felt as if they (management) could care less, and proved it by doing nothing about it. I consider this a very big negative. I like the choice of smoking or non-smoking, but once the decision is made as to which tables are smoking and which are not, it should stay that way. "Z" --- ž Via ProEdit 3.2įR ž Channel 1 (tm) Date: 03-15-90 (21:18) Number: 229 To: ZZZ ZZZ Refer#: 225 From: ERIC NEWHOUSE Read: YES (Has Replies) Subj: REVIEW OF CIROS Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Thanks for your prompt responses! One quick question: Is the prudential building on the Gov Center Stop on the T? -Eric --- ž Via ProDoor 3.2įR ž Channel 1 (tm) Date: 03-15-90 (22:00) Number: 231 To: ERIC NEWHOUSE Refer#: 229 From: ZZZ ZZZ Read: YES (Has Replies) Subj: REVIEW OF CIROS Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE -> Thanks for your prompt responses! One quick question: Is the -> prudential building on the Gov Center Stop on the T? No, Copley (Green Line) would be the nearest. Maybe someone else can give better directions on how to get to the Prudential Building. I can tell you that it is not difficult. Sorry that I can't do much better then that. "Z" Date: 03-16-90 (13:22) Number: 232 To: ZZZ ZZZ Refer#: 231 From: NANCY JOHNSON Read: YES Subj: REVIEW OF CIROS Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE The E trains prudential stop would be the closest or on the other lines Copley or the stop after that is also in walking distance. --- ž Via ProDoor 3.2įR ž Channel 1 (tm)