La Mesa Restaurant (Barrington)

On a stretch of Northwest Highway in Barrington, IL there is a tiny strip mall.  La Mesa looks like a small storefront eatery and it is.  Some might call it cozy.  It's a little messy and cluttered inside for such a small place.  A makeover would do them good. Dirty rags on the counter and dishes piled on the table next to us which were never removed during our last visit doesn't help with good impressions either.  Although, every single time we've gone there after a small event with our club, we have always been greeted as if we are regulars.  If you're bringing in a large group on a busy weekend,  you may not be able to get seated.  We've been lucky.  I've seen others decide to go elsewhere when there has been six or more and didn't want to wait.

The menu is ho-hum, typical Mexican-American fare seen in places like this where the majority of the clientele are suburban gringos who go nuts over anything that reminds them of their trip to Acapulco on spring break.  Look to the large board on the wall.  You might be able to spot more interesting items.  This is the place to go if you're on a budget.  After getting a basket of chips and two kinds of ordinary salsas, we ordered a round of cold beer.

I ordered the chicken enchilada dinner in mole (8.95.)  It came with rice, beans and fixin's which were generic tasting.  Everything was okay.  Good but nothing inventive or different.  Nicely presented and tasty, although bland.  Although,  I am not surprised.  We distinctly hear people asking all the time, "Now, I don't want this spicy..." all the time in these suburban Mexican American places, especially here.  Of course, they'll tone it down as a matter of practice.

My wife ordered the beef burrito (4.99.)  The burrito was sad on the plate, naked.  Worst presentation ever.  Since the lettuce was stuffed inside the heavy burrito, it was quickly cooked wilted.  The beef tasted processed, similar to Taco Bell.  

A friend's open faced chicken Sope Dinner (8.75) with extra cheese fared much better.  She wanted something light and fresh.  She was pleased and it looked delicious.  Generous portion of chicken, crisp lettuce and the slightly salty Mexican cheese made this dish.  It was the star of the night.  Someone else in our group ordered the Guisado De Puerco (8.75.)  I've had this pork stew in green salsa before.  It is pretty good but again, I thought the dish was rather tepid.  It's as if someone just poured a bottle of green tomatillo salsa on top of some pork.  I certainly hope more work went into the dish but that's the problem.  I can't be sure.

So you're traveling northwest on Northwest Highway and you don't want to stop at the nearby McDonald's?  Well, go ahead.  They even serve burgers and even wraps there.  Certainly try La Mesa.  The people there are friendly, ample food, good and the specials are cheap.  Just wish they'd ramp up the menu a little and take more risks with the food by a little more authenticity.

I give La Mesa 3 beans out of 5! 

ToreOre Chicken & Joy (Niles)

Nestled in a large mega strip mall plaza there is large mega Korean grocery store called, Super H Mart in the village of Niles, IL.  Nestled into Super H Mart is a little indoor mini mall.  Standing beside this mini mall is ToreOre.  ToreOre is a little Korean fried chicken stand which sits tantalizingly among the sea of shoppers and kimchee.

There is only one thing to order here.  Fried chicken!  It's fresh chicken, marinated and fried to order with an Asian twist.  There are several different flavors: Garlic Tasty, Sweet & Spicy and the Hot Sweet & Spicy.  You can get either pieces of bone-in chicken or chicken tenders.  We chose the Garlic Tasty bone-in chicken.  A full order seemed like a lot for my wife and I.  So we asked if we could have a half an order.  Although, the option isn't on the menu board, she was happy to accommodate us.  We got 7 pieces (about 10 total with tax.) 

Since this is made to order, we were told it would take about 15 minutes.  We shopped and we happy to see our order was ready.  It came in this colorful box.  

It took us a half hour to drive home.  Chop sticks, napkins and pickled daikon were provided.  In addition, there was a little surprise hidden in the napkins.  Several pairs of plastic gloves were also enclosed.  As my wife said, "It's all so cute."  

Now Colonel Sanders had the secret "original recipe" of 11 herbs and spices.  ToreOre mixes into their flour and various grains such as barley, peas, brown rice, millet into their recipe. The crust wasn't soggy.  Yet, I put the chicken in the oven to crisp a little more because of the trip home.  

We ordered the Garlic Tasty chicken.  However, we obviously got the plain Marinated chicken.  Disappointed.  Yet, it was awfully good chicken.  Flavor packed, not greasy, light crust crunch, sweet fresh chicken and nice sized pieces.  It was one of those rare times I didn't care they got the order wrong.  It was that delicious!  If you're in the area, try it!  

I give ToreOre Chicken & Joy 4 clucks out of 5! 

Pita Pita (Palatine)

Pita Pita Mediterranean Restaurant is situated in the ugliest strip mall in Palatine called Woodcraft Plaza on busy Dundee Rd.  It looks like something built in the USSR during the Cold War.  However, it doesn't mean an eatery can't be successful.  People will flock if it is good enough despite the depressing lack of ambiance of the strip mall.  Sushi Para, the popular sushi chain is only a couple of doors away.

The first impression walking in Pita Pita is warmth.  Families, senior couples and hipsters seem to occupy many of the tables.  Nicely decorated with large photos, dark booths and tables.  Stroll over to the counter to where you order your food.  The server will bring it too you.  After all, this place is a semi-fast food eatery.  Everyone is very nice. If you don't know a dish, feel free to ask.

The booths are tight for the average person. I had no problem but people in my party were quite uncomfortable and we moved to a table.  The place doesn't get that crowded.  They should take out a booth and make more room.  The place was far from crowded on a Sunday afternoon, yet it took over 20 minutes before our orders were ready.  I hoped the delay was because the food was all made to order.

The Tabouleh Salad (L 4.99) was very fresh.  Cucumber, mint, parsley, tomatoes and bulgar.  Very little bulgar was to be found in the salad.  It was more as an afterthought to the vegetables.  They didn't serve it with extra pita bread either to be used as a scoop.  Disappointing.  Yet, it was still tasty.

My Mixed Meat Platter (8.99) was aromatic and flavorful.  Large helping of flavored rice (a little on the gummy side) and tabouleh salad graced the plate.  The meats included lamb, chicken, beef and a beef/lamb patty.  Fantastic. Grilled additions were tomato and onion which were a nice touch.  The pita bread piece was fresh.  It is nice they use real silverware and ceramic dishes for the entrees.  The employees asked us several times if the food was alright.  They do wish to please.

My friends weren't as hungry.  They ordered the Chicken Shawerma (5.99) which to me looked a little "thin" compared to other "Mediterranean" places I have visited.  For the price it was good and they felt satisfied.

Will I return to Pita Pita?  I will.  I do want to try the Lentil Soup, Falafel and the Hummus next time.   There is some need for improvement.  Don't drive an hour to visit the place.  However, if you're in the area and you have a taste for some "Mediterranean" food,  definitely pay Pita Pita a visit.

I give Pita Pita three fresh pitas out of five.  It will be interesting see how the restaurant develops and matures as time goes on.

Brazil Express Churrasco Grill (Schaumburg) UPDATE!

My wife and I have been hitting the gym and watching what we eat.  Unlimited helpings of grilled meats? No way....until now.  I happened to read an article about immigrant businesses in the Daily Herald.   One of the featured businesses was Brazil Express Churrasco Grill.   It looked intriguing so I looked it up.  My gawd!  How did I miss this place?  I've driven up and down Roselle hundreds of times.  Brazil Express is located in a strip mall with a ridiculous name, Schaumburg Town Center Shopping Center.  It's hidden behind a Burger King.

Ever since the economy has gone to down the tubes, we don't indulge ourselves with places like, Texas de Brazil.   Very expensive and we can't consume the enormous amount of very salty meat to make it worth it.  That is, until Brazil Express.  Dinner is only 21.99 (14.99 lunch) for all you can eat.
It's a simple storefront setting.  Simply decorated because the focus is on the food.  We were instantly greeted and seated.  Sadly, we were seated in a dark corner (hence, grainy pics) under a music speaker.  I wasn't thrilled with the small table at all.  The place was busy (not packed) but I couldn't help but think why we were placed hidden in such a dark corner of the room when there were many empty tables around.  We dressed well, showered and were pleasant. Oh well.  Next time, I will demand a better table.  It was off putting.

One of the waiters explained the system. Put the green card in the wire holder if you want meat.  Take the green card on the table if you don't.  Simple enough.  We headed for the salad bar.  It's not an expensive expansive salad area.  However, what was there was nearly impeccably fresh.  Wonderful crisp salads, two kinds of salami, marinated vegetables, olives, some cheeses, rice/beans, dressings, small shrimp and fresh mozzarella balls.  The only thing that disappointed was the salami.  It looked like it came from an Oscar Mayer  package.

When we arrived back to our table, surprises awaited us.  Grilled plantain, seasoned mashed potatoes and little cheesy popovers were ours to enjoy. Wow!  The popovers are addictive!  Not wanting to fill up on starters, we displayed our green card.  Disappointingly, we waited for a few minutes.  We weren't being seen in that dark corner while an older couple and a larger party were being served by two people.  We missed out on a couple of nice spears of food. Finally, I turned around and motioned one of the passadores.  At last, our first meat came.

It was a sirloin Picanha cut.  This is how I love beef, thin layer of crispy seasoned fat for taste, tender and done medium rare.  My main complaint about churrasco is the meat is often way too salty.  This wasn't.  Rapid succession of meat followed.  We also had wonder grilled chicken leg and spicy sausage.  Another serving were chicken breast chunks wrapped in bacon.  Shocked how juicy it tasted.  Then another kind of cut of sirloin.  We cried uncle for we were stuffed.  My wife considered dessert.  Another couple near us ordered what looked like a wonderful flan but we passed.  Another time.

We will be back.  There is so much more to try.  Perhaps we'll bring another couple or two.  That way everyone can have a taste of everything all around.  My only beef  was our corner table.  Avoid if you can!  If you're a vegetarian, there is a veggie price for 10.99 although, your options are a little limited.

UPDATE!  We've been back a few more times.  The table issue seems to be resolved.  I've noticed the waiters revolve around the tables in a more even fashion too.  Excellent.  We've already had my dad's birthday party there and we've taken friends a few times to try the place.  My dad was treated like a king.  It gets better each time.  They've hit their stride.  Wow!  Did you know there are two different kinds of sausage?  Try the grilled pineapple too.  We finally ordered the flan.  Fantastic and generous enough to share.  Perfect rating!

I give Brazil Express 5+ skewers out of 5! Love meat? Then what are you awaiting for? Go!


 

House Of Pho (Hoffman Estates)

There is a small nondescript strip mall in Hoffman Estates colorfully called, Strawberry Hill Plaza.  There you will find, the House Of Pho on Golf Rd.  Finding a Vietnamese restaurant in the NW suburbs of the Chicago wasn't easy until recently.  Prayers to the gods have been answered!  

My brother and I came for the 5.95 lunch special and we were hungry.  We were greeted immediately after entering the spacious eatery.  We were seated just in time.  Lunch crowds were pouring in.  The place isn't fancy but has a definite hipster Asian vibe.  Pleasant.  

Our friendly waiter gave us menus but we were ready to order right away.  We both ordered the Beef Pho.  Since it was another one of those 90 degree days, I also ordered Tai Iced Tea (2.50.)  The silky flavor was wonderfully refreshing! 

Soon after our order was taken, our Vegetable Egg Rolls were served.  Light, airy, hot and crisp with a sweet sour fish sauce for dunking.  It hit the spot.  However, we waited for about 15 minutes before our Pho arrived.  Our server apologized several times for the backup in the kitchen.  We were ok with that.  All too often, the server never says anything.  At last, our soups were served!

The condiments were ultra fresh and included limes, Thai basil, bean sprouts and jalapeno peppers.  The star of the meal, Pho was very good.  The savory cilantro and onion which topped the soup was thick with medium rare beef (the most generous amount I've ever had in Pho.)  The noodles were filling and perfectly done, not mushy.  We left very satisfied and vowed to come back to try more of their dishes.  Can't get to the city?  Give House Of Pho a try.  

I give House Of Pho 4 limes out of 5!  I will be updating after I return there again. 

Tokio Sake in Deer Park

Tokio Sake is so conveniently located in Deer Park off of Rand Rd for my family.  It sits on the huge Deer Park Town Center shopping complex only a few shops down from the Century 16 Movie Theater.  A movie ends and people pour into the eatery for some sushi.  Yoohoo!  Or, maybe not.

Don't misunderstand me.  I like the idea of indulging in some sushi after a Sunday matinee and a belly full of popcorn.  So do a lot of other people.  Hence, the crowds.  It also means, the owners know they have a built in customer base so they don't really try as hard as they should to please, unfortunately.

We arrived after an afternoon movie.  A hostess greeted us immediately and asked if we had a reservation.  I was a little worried because it looked quite crowded. However, she found us a table that was just freed up by a departing group.  The very attractive and well decorated restaurant is small and the tables are very close together.  I felt as if I could just reach over an grab a piece of another table's sushi.  It's also loud and festive.  I've been to some sushi spots which have the air of a funeral parlor so, this was fine with us.

We were starving so we ordered the Shrimp Dumpling appetizer, 6 for 6.95.  The menu said, "pan fried" but these appeared to be deep fried.  They were pretty small, too crispy and a little dry although tasty.  Next we ordered the Cherry Blossom, 15.95.  This was a pretty dish.  We agreed it was very fresh and each one was packed with flavor.  It consisted of unagi, shrimp, masago, crabmeat wrapped in ripe avocado.

We also ordered the Sunrise for 11.95 which was crab, avocado, cucumber, salmon with sweet miso.  Again, another delicious dish but skimpy.  These were more like appetizers. The Tempura Crunch for 12.95 with shrimp tempura, avocado and crabmeat along with a Spicy Tuna Roll for 5.95 completed the meal.   Everything was very well prepared and tastefully executed. The fillings were generous. I didn't feel as if I was paying for mostly rice.  However, the three of us left unsatisfied.  There was no soup and/or salad on the house as in many other sushi places.  For the price, the rolls were too few.  We're not big people with huge appetites either.  However, later on that evening we did make sandwiches.  In the end, the experience was just okay.  I'd go back but I wouldn't go out of my way, not when there are so many other places to choose from so close to home for a much better value and bang for the buck.

I give Tokio Sake 2 1/2 eels out of 5.  Go ahead and go but don't go starved or you'll empty your wallet paying for it!

Satnouka Ramen (Mitsuwa Marketplace, IL)

I was standing at the Santouka Ramen counter inside Mitsuwa Marketplace in Rolling Meadows about to place my order.  Mitsuwa which sits on busy Algonquin Rd is run down and could use a good scrubbing and remodel.  Why it's the pits compared to many other locations is puzzling. However, it doesn't detract from the food.  I overheard a group of sun kissed California folks behind me sitting slurping their ramen soup. They went on and on about how the ramen was "terrible" compared to the CA locations, how they hated Chicago pizza, how the Mexican food wasn't authentic and how cold it was (it was in the mid 60s in Oct which is pretty good here.)  Well, I call bull chips. I've had Santouka Ramen in CA. I've had various ramen soups in Canada, San Fransisco, New York, Houston and so on.  The Santouka Ramen and various ramen soups I've tried taste just as delicous here as anywhere.  Truthfully, it many be better here if only because there is nothing like a steaming bowl of ramen when it's freezing here (in the 60s.)

 

I ordered the small bowl Miso Ramen Set for about $10.  Included in the set is rice topped with salmon roe (ikura gohan) and a seasoned hard boiled egg.  The bowl sizes come in Small, Med and Large.  One can order Salt Ramen, Miso (or Spicy) Ramen or Soy Ramen.  Small menu. You need not order a set either and order just a big bowl of soup.  The set is filling but, oh so satisfying!  

The food court is often very crowded from about noon to 1:30 on weekdays.  Unfortunately, the food court hours are only from 11am-7pm.  If you venture there on a weekend, expect a long insane wait just to find a place to sit until about 3PM when the crowds start to thin.  If you find a table, claim it fast.  When ordering from Satnouka, first examine the menu board and the cool plastic representations of the sets and food. Then, place your order.  The cashiers are very friendly and helpful.  Cash only and no takeouts.  The cashier will give you a number.  If you come during a busy period, expect an average wait of 10-15 minutes. No matter.  The wait is worth it!

Once your number is called, you grab your tray filled with your set, napkins and chopsticks. It's a wondrous sight.  The rice was piping hot. The salmon roe was very generous--fresh, plump, slightly salty and a tiny bit sweet.  I don't know what the seasoned egg is marinated in. However, is truly a gift from the gods! Slightly salty from the soy, it melts in your mouth.
The steamy ramen in the ceramic blue bowl is the star in all of this.  These twisty big portion of ramen noodles are bathed in the rich slightly oily complex pork based broth.  The soup is topped with bamboo shoots, sliced jelly ear,  2 slices of pork, green onions and a fish cake slice. The broth is slightly milky and silky in texture. It dances down your throat. The pork is packed with flavor. The bouncy noodles were cooked to perfection and more importantly not mushy or soft!  Everything mixes so well into a swell of deliciousness. I've eaten here at least 50 times (addicting, yes) and I've always had a consistently fantastic bowl of ramen soup.

Sure, this is a chain. Of course, Satnouka sits in a tiny strip mall inside a slightly dingy food court. No matter. This ramen is everything!
I give Satnouka 5 pickled plums out of 5!  Fantastic.