A True Philly Cheesesteak

Today's adventure began about a year ago when I realized I had been to Philadelphia multiple times and still had not tried a true Philadelphia Cheesesteak.  Yes, I have had a "cheesesteak"in other parts of the country, but apparently they fail by comparison to a cheesesteak in Philadelphia. So over a year ago, my husband and I determined that the next time I was in Philadelphia we would make it a personal mission for me to eat a true cheesesteak.

Well, we are back in Philly for the holidays, and today we embarked on a mission to provide my tastebuds with the wonders of Philly Cheesesteaks.  First my Philly coaches instructed me on how to order a cheesesteak...I wouldn't want to agitate anyone in line behind me.  We determined I like onions but then I needed to decide what type of cheese I would get....this is where I ran into a problem.  I love provolone and I don't enjoy fake cheese, aka Cheez Whiz, BUT the big deal with Philly Cheesesteaks is the inclusion of the Whiz...what am I to do?  Provolone Wit or Whiz Wit?

If you know me well, you know I have issues making decisions about what to have for any meal...so having to decide between provolone and whiz was a BIG DEAL.  So to solve my problem I polled friends on Facebook...and although the majority said Wiz, my tummy was leaning toward provolone.

SO, we get to Tony Luke's and I decide to use my Philly Cheesesteak Newbie status to get 1/2 provolone wit and 1/2 wiz wit and was shot down.  Disappointment #1.  So I ended up ordering provolone wit.  Sad day for me, my sandwich arrived as a provolone witout...BUMMER.  Disappointment #2.  I assumed it would still be delicious but honestly, nothing striking.  So I try my sister-in-laws wiz witout and my husband's wiz wit...really, nothing amazing...  To make sure I was not losing my mind I have my husband try my sandwich to make sure I am not being picky.  He takes a bite, thinks about it, then looks at me and says, "You got screwed."

So there you go.  All this hype and no glory.  It was a let down and full but not satisfied.  I can see how a provolone wit has potential to be tasty, but still not worth all the talk.  Sorry Philly natives, I know you find pride in your cheesesteaks, but I can't say I enjoyed it.  I do love how emotionally connected Philadelphians are with their cheesesteaks, and I appreciate how protective they are of this glorified sandwich.  My first experience was a bust, but I haven't given up complete hope.  Next time around I will try John's Roast Pork in South Philly.  I was guaranteed a cheesesteak there is better than anywhere else.

On the plus side, my poor cheesesteak experience was followed up by a wonderful hoagie from Lenny's in Manyunk.  Now this is a place you need to try... Look for my next post about this delicious sandwich and a delicious brewery in downtown Philadelphia!

Bon Appetit and Bon Voyage!

If You Can't Travel - Eat Authentic Food Locally!

 Last night to celebrate my Mom's birthday I took her out to Cuba Cuba Cafe and Bar in Denver, CO.  I had never tried it, but my good friend Carlyle suggested this wonderful restaurant and I will second her opinion that Cuba Cuba is a place in Denver that is not to be missed!

Unlike so many other restaurants offering ethnic cuisine, Cuba Cuba really  has a way of transporting you to Cuba from the moment you walk through the door of the small house, turned restaurant.  Everything from the music, to the decor, to the delicious food makes you feel as though you could be sipping mojitos in Camaguey or grabbing an authentic Cuban meal after a long day of site-seeing in Havana. 

The creole/Spanish/African fusion of music authentic to Cuba is impossible to miss and if you are so inclined, you could join in on one of the many bongo drums decorating the restaurant (ask permission first...).  The small house has been divided into multiple dining areas, complete with an outdoor patio, and each area is strategically decorated with vibrant colors and decor that instantly makes you dream of a Caribbean getaway.  And then there is the food...

The owner Kristy Socarras Bigelow was born to an "ultra-Cuban" family and decided to open the restaurant after not being able to find any authentic Cuban food in the city.  I am so happy she felt a need to satisfy her craving for her home and culture, and more excited that she decided to bring it to Denver!

The complete menu can be found on the Cuba Cuba website in case you need to tantalize your taste buds even more after hearing about our dinner last night.  I do realize that it seems as though we ate a lot of food...that is an accurate statement, but the portions are reasonable (as well as the price) and it is so good you won't want to stop eating!!


Appetizer (per Carlyle's suggestion):   
Mariquitas Cubana - plantain chips with avocado mash, a garlic oil dip and a mango habanero salsa

Salad:
Tropicana - mango, cucumber, tomato, queso fresco, mint, cilantro, tossed in a chili-lime vinaigrette 


Mom's Entree:
Mahi Pintado En Guarapo -  grilled mahi glazed with a citrus & sugarcane syrup served over plantain    and pork crackling mash



Leah's Entree: 
Vaca Frita - Mojo marinated flank steak, seared crispy, topped with sauteed onions, served with white rice, black beans and maduros (sweet plantains)


Dessert, after all it was a birthday celebration
???? - A french toast made with sugarcane syrup topped with mango sorbet and a chocolate drizzle

YUM YUM YUM!

So what is the lesson learned here?  Traveling can be expensive and sometimes we don't have the time or money to get away for a while, BUT that doesn't mean we can't experience other cultures!  When life calls for a vacation, don't worry about a long flight...just find a local, authentic restaurant that can provide you with one evening of mental transportation to somewhere amazing!  I am not suggesting you go to the closest Mexican establishment, despite how good the margs may be...
Look for something unique like a Cuban, German, Ethiopian, or Indian restaurant where you can try something new!

Food is one of the most rewarding and unique things about traveling anyway, and it is amazing what some music, decor, food and a little imagination can do to transport you to a different place for a quick, yet satisfying getaway!

Bon Appetit and Bon (Mental) Voyage!