It’s a quite cloudy morning. My kids are choosing pillows and snoring over an early breakfast with their dad. Giving me the chance to try something new. For months I’ve heard of the genius minds behind the FoodAffair . But I’ve quietly sat behind my desk and computer screen and contemplated my first trist with the much talked about Eggs Benedict. If this were a Sunday I may stay for mimosas, or maybe some waffles. However today my mind and heart are set. Walking into the restuarant it feels very open and warm. A faux fireplace adorns the walls and a wide open view of the... Read More

Ma’am, So there I was sitting peacefully in my Jeep Cherokee, listening to Africa by Toto. Trying a sip from my daughter’s iced Cinnamon toast crunch frappe from Kick Serve Coffee . Just mellowing myself out before I head into the grocery store to see why my kids are taking so long. As I approach the front door, you cut me off. I’m talking to you random lady with spiderweb print tights on and a bright pink hoody… You stop at the trash bin next to the entrance and raise your Kick Serve logo’ed cup in the air and chug what looked like atleast 4 giant swallows. You... Read More

There’s a little bit of home, a little bit of vacation, a little bit of a view, but a lot of love at Janie’s Riverview Cafe in Buffalo, Iowa. This journey I’ve been on for over a year now to bring my reviews to every local restaurant has been one of the most rewarding things I’ve ever done. I meet folks, shake hands, bump fist, laugh and learn a little of their story so I can craft mine. If you drive too fast you might miss this quaint little stop a long the river, and that very well maybe a mistake. Home cooked styling and hearty plates will make you feel right as rain. Most... Read More

Coincidentally I spent October 26th, dining at The Crane & Pelican Cafe . You’re probably wondering what’s so important about October 26th? Was it the famed gun fight at the OK Corral? George Foreman winning the gold medal in Mexico City? The Village Voice publishing the first alternative news magazine, then going on to launch the careers of some of my favorite writers who would win three Pulitzer Prizes? All of these incredible historical events are worthy of celebrating at The Crane & Pelican. However, the most important date is October 26th 1985… The date that... Read More

Just stopped by QC FUEL for a quick smoothie and ice coffee for the kid. One sip in and I feel like I just got a 1-2 combo uppercut by a mango strawberry smoothie made special by Hannah at the Moline location. I mean holy shiznit! This thing will put hair on your chest and then shave it off. I was on my way to run errands, now I’m trying on bootie shorts and getting ready to lead a virtual spin class on my neighbor’s peloton with Fergalicious blasting in the background. Do I feel emasculated because I’m drinking a smoothie and my daughter got a coffee? A little bit, but do the... Read More

People often say this food was better than sex. Frankly, that’s terrifying. I’ve been admitted to a hospital, banned from Burger King properties, chased by the Mexican police and atleast one Cartel, and had my credit score increase by 50 points after some of my escapades. So, I’d like to submit this Award winning chill served to me today at Rubys was better than dry humping. Can I say that? I mean don’t get me wrong, this is literally the best chilli I’ve ever had…Better than sex? Ehh, definitely better than dry humping. Do people still do that? My marketing... Read More

The year is 1929. The Great Depression has started and folks are hungry. Chicagoans say “Hold my hot dog…I got you.” The origin of the Chicago Dog, is wrapped up in a time when folks were working hard and needed a nutrious yet delicious meal. The components of the Chicago Dog saved the working class and have stayed unchanged since the original rolled up and out of a hot dog stand. All Beef frank, not boiled but steam cooked and held in warm water for upto 20 to 30 minutes. Boiling makes your Frank’s tough. The steam and hold gives that perfect snap. Nathan’s... Read More

Last night was inspirational. I’ve never been more impressed with a Bartender/Server/Jack of all trades. A late meeting ended our night at Macstavern Davenport in downtown Davenport. I’ve heard rumors of them having some of the best wings in the Quad Cities, so I may or may not have slipped this casually into conversation. First and foremost, this isnt your typical bar. A wide open setting lets you find a booth or a table to sit, or you can cozy up to the bar. A few families are sitting at the tables tonight so we choose the bar. Peter promptly takes are drink orders and hands us... Read More

Random Person: I wish there was a Certified Wine Expert to tell me what wine pairs with my Combos… Me: I got you fam… Product Review Combos, the quintessential stoner snack. Invented in the late 70s this baked not fried snack hit the shelves in 1985. A bite-sized, cheese-filled cracker, pretzel or tortilla, COMBOS was developed by Mars Chocolate North America. Since the first nacho cheese variety was introduced, the line has expanded to seven distinct flavor combinations (cheddar cheese pretzel, pizzeria pretzel, cheddar cheese cracker, pepperoni pizza cracker, zesty salsa... Read More

The first citation states “as easy as pie” originated in Australia in the 1920s. It grew from the term “pie on” or “pie at” which means to be very good at something. The root is the Maori word “pai” which means “good”. Hence, if you’re good at something it will be as easy as pie. Out On A Limb Pie Company, demonstrates there is nothing easy about her pies. In fact these are pain staking creations of lots of scientific development and meticulously crafted amazingly baked concoctions. For her it has become “Easy as Pie”. By her, I am referring to Juli.... Read More