Stuck in the no man's land between Christmas and New Year's with office work moving at a glacial pace and energy levels reaching epic new lows, I find myself pondering where to go for dinner this coming weekend. While I normally am the adventurous sort pertaining to culinary matters, there are times when the simple comforts of the familiar are too appealing to ignore. These are the times when branching out into new territory seems a bit too much work or possibly bears too much risk. These are the times that demand a tried and true experience.
Perhaps you know what I mean. For example: late one might craving a bit of frozen confectionery, you open the freezer and find yourself facing a container of Moose Tracks ice cream (my current favorite) or a new variety with the unfortunate name of Ukrainian Goulash. Hmmm, which to choose, which to choose? You already know you've experienced some wonderful times with a bowl of Moose Tracks and have reveled in the thick strands of fudge laced throughout the creamy goodness. Conversely, the unknown and unfamiliar Ukrainian Goulash might actually harbor some al dente pasta or other non-ice cream like ingredients.
Too risky. I'll go with the Moose Tracks.
So. Therein lies my dilemma. I have mentally compiled a listing of my favorite places to dine, and they are, in no particular order:
Gino's in Merrillville
Tony's Place in Valpo
Big Daddy's Genuine BBQ in Valpo
My Very Own Kitchen in Valpo
Teibel's in Schererville
An eclectic sampling, to say the least. No common thread running through these selections. And like the aforementioned ice cream quandary, I find myself asking: which to choose, which to choose?
Gino's is a bit too pricey considering the current status of my budget. Teibels is a bit too distant to brave the holiday traffic. My very own kitchen involves a bit too much effort for my present state of slothfulness. So that leaves Big Daddy's and Tony's... BBQ or pizza.
Ahh, two food groupings never destined to be considered healthy or figure friendly, both earning legions of devotees and both inspiring passionate debate concerning which is the best in their respective genres, and quite simply: two of the best places to eat in Valpo.
Eureka! I have it. One place for lunch and the other for dinner. I must be a genius.
Thursday, December 29, 2011
Friday, December 9, 2011
El Salto Redux
Visited: December 3, 2011
I admit I was somewhat reluctant to visit El Salto after my last meal at this venerable Valpo establishment. My previous experience resulted in a poor review on Urbanspoon and when the suggestion for lunch here was made, I kind of rolled my eyes and went along... but sometimes you've got to go along just to get along!
Anyway, this visit proved that the Hoosier Epicure can change his mind. I ordered the Sunday lunch burrito special; one beef, one chicken and they were very tasty. The meat had been grilled until smokey and tender, then stuffed into soft flour tortillas. Two thumbs up! The chips, beans, and rice were all the same, frankly the same you seem to get at any Mexican joint. But the burritos were definitely good and a vast improvement over previous dishes. Service was quick, efficient, and unobtrusive. The tall walls of the booths create somewhat of an intimate atmosphere and allow for private conversation, if that's your thing.
The official name is El Salto Authentic Mexican Restaurant. So is it authentic? Doubtful. It it good? Yeah, not bad. I will go again without hesitation.
I admit I was somewhat reluctant to visit El Salto after my last meal at this venerable Valpo establishment. My previous experience resulted in a poor review on Urbanspoon and when the suggestion for lunch here was made, I kind of rolled my eyes and went along... but sometimes you've got to go along just to get along!
Anyway, this visit proved that the Hoosier Epicure can change his mind. I ordered the Sunday lunch burrito special; one beef, one chicken and they were very tasty. The meat had been grilled until smokey and tender, then stuffed into soft flour tortillas. Two thumbs up! The chips, beans, and rice were all the same, frankly the same you seem to get at any Mexican joint. But the burritos were definitely good and a vast improvement over previous dishes. Service was quick, efficient, and unobtrusive. The tall walls of the booths create somewhat of an intimate atmosphere and allow for private conversation, if that's your thing.The official name is El Salto Authentic Mexican Restaurant. So is it authentic? Doubtful. It it good? Yeah, not bad. I will go again without hesitation.
So there. I have proven I have an open mind... sort of.
Value: 7 out of 10 Not bad, deceptively large amount of food.
Cleanliness: 8 out of 10 Did not leave our booth, but everything looked good.
Food Taste: 7 out of 10 This is just for the burritos... the other stuff: ehh!
Service: 9 out of 10 They are there when you need them, speedy quick.
Ambiance: 7 out of 10 More taste (and decorating budget) than El Charro
Value: 7 out of 10 Not bad, deceptively large amount of food.
Cleanliness: 8 out of 10 Did not leave our booth, but everything looked good.
Food Taste: 7 out of 10 This is just for the burritos... the other stuff: ehh!
Service: 9 out of 10 They are there when you need them, speedy quick.
Ambiance: 7 out of 10 More taste (and decorating budget) than El Charro
El Salto
3530 Calumet Ave
Valparaiso, IN 46383 3530 Calumet Ave
(219) 462-0100
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