Wednesday, August 10, 2011

Warbler Records and Goods


The hippy guy that sold me my new record player is the ish!
I've been meaning to buy me a record player for the last few months... The guy who helped me out made my purchase easy and threw in a free record with my purchase. Warbler Records offers knowledgeable service at good prices. I'm not too familiar with many record stores, but they've even got reggae and Hawaiian albums.
I think I've found my new hobby - and it has a lot to do with stores like this.

Tuesday, August 9, 2011

Carlitos Cafe Y Cantina


If you're willing to shell out a little more dinero for your better-than-average mexican fair, give Carlitos the green light.
Two tacos'll cost you $17, and a cocktail $10-12. But it's all pretty good.
The portions here are huge. Their rock shrimp tacos were bomb. Lightly breaded and served with papaya salsa, the fillings overflowed each tortilla.
Their chili passion martini - a blend of passion fruit pulp, vodka and chili flakes - was the perfect blend of tang and spice.
Two cocktails and an two entrees cost my friend and I $75. A costly price for a light buzz. But I digress..
Carlito's hosts prbably some of the bigger and better patio seating on town. If you're looking to make lunch/dinner reservations for two, request the table outside nearest to State Street. It's the best seat in the house.

Friday, August 5, 2011

The Blue Owl at Zen Yai


This place serves the best tri-tip sandwich I've ever had. And who knew it'd come from a thai restaurant? The oyster aioli, smothered on the perfectly toasted brioche roll adds a slightly fishy element to the sandwich - but it works. And it works well. A few leaves of fresh basil and match stick carrots also compliment the sandwich.
At Blue Owl, the tri-tip fried rice topped with an egg is also a good call.
Although the portions are small for the price, the two things I've had (fried rice $10, tri tip sandwich $8) are worth every penny. You also have to take into consideration that this is one of SB's few late night options. Otherwise, you're stuck with Mad Dogs or Jack in the Crack.
Hours: 11:30 - 2:30 a.m. Thursday through Saturday. Delivery Available?!?

Wednesday, August 3, 2011

Santa Barbara Happy Hour: The Hungry Cat


From the first sip of my Happy Hour cocktail, the first thought that came to mind: A good drink doesn't have to be a stiff one.
Our server recommended the Greyhound proper, a standard for the Hungry Cat's comers and goers. My greyhound was perfectly proportioned - complete with Plymouth Vodka, fresh grapefruit juice, garnished with a sliver of candied grapefruit.
This place screams quality. Fresh ingredients. Sophistication. Our $1.50 Fanny Bay oysters tasted as if they came straight from the ocean. The horseradish, freshly grated. Something tells me they make their cocktail sauce on the spot as well.
The cured arctic char was a good choice. The cured char, toasted pistachios, and honey yogurt added contemporary touch to plain ol' grilled Naan and yogurt.
The feel of the Hungry Cat strikes a modern pose. From their menu, to their style of service, to the dark stained furniture. The type of place where the artsy folk like to congregate. And in my case, the perfect place to catch up with great company.


Happy hour runs from 3-6p.m. daily. Half off all cocktails, drafts, and cocktail of the day. $1.50 oyster of the day.