Tepanyaki!!

There are very few places that I can list on my "most favorite places to have dinner" list. This isn't because I am picky, it's just because I really love to just eat everywhere. However, there is Tepanyaki! There is a bit of a history behind my love for this food. In New Jersey, down the street from my home was a Japanese restaurant called Izumi. My friend and I ate there at least once a month because we loved it so much. The waiters and hostess knew who we were each time. Some of the nicest people ever! The flavors at this particular teppanyaki restaurant were mouth watering, it was something we looked foward to every time. I also have yet to find a spicy mustard like Izumi had.

Fast forward ... or rewind, to three years ago when I moved back to Utah. I had to find a place that was at least a little similar. Tepanyaki in Bountiful existed before it burned down. Then one opened in Cleafield, Provo, West Jordan, Lehi, and Salt Lake City. If you have never been let me give you a run down. You sit at a table that is actually a very large griddle with about 10 seats around it. Your waiter takes your order which is usually something like noodles or rice and shrimp, chicken, or some cut of steak. I prefer a mix of shrimp and strip steak and noodles! You start with some clear soup (yum!) and a salad with ginger type dressing. Your chef comes out with his little cart and cooks in front of you. There is something absoultely appealing about having your food cooked in front of you to order and knowing you can eat it hot on your plate. For those of you in an area with Benihana's it's the same thing but with better taste and friendlier cooks!! (and non corporate)

Even though I have been many times the onion volcano never get's old, nor does the little jokes the chefs tell as they prepare your food. At the Tepanyaki I usually like to order a little bit of sushi as well. It is a little pricey, and I usually go for a special occasion unless I have a craving. I have tried other places in Utah but still Tepanyaki is at the top of the list.

http://www.my-tepanyaki.com/

Salt City Burger Co.

Mmmmm burgers.....

I was sad to see Su Casa go on 5th South in Bountiful, but replacing it is a mouth watering burger joint. Alright, joint doesn't really describe this place. When you walk into the one in Bountiful you are surrounded by beautiful wood decorating the walls and bar. On a side note, for anyone that has been to Lagoon, I'll be honest, it reminds me of the ice cream place that is in pioneer village!

A good friend of mine was super spontaneous and invited me out this time! There is also another location in Sandy on appx 91st south and 13th east. I had put in on my list of places to visit.

I am partial to mom and pop burger joints, the ones that have been around since before anyone else can remember. This one is pretty close behind them. Started in 1960's on 33rd south as Fred's Burger Chalet. Sounds like my kind of place!!

I ordered a southwest burger. This was a 1/3lb burger topped with a slab of cream cheese (yes, you read that correctly), two ginourmous roasted green chilis, pepperjack cheese, and I added avocado! The menu says that this is a symphony of flavors, it was definitely music in my mouth.

I am a sucker for sweet potato fries and I am always on a mission to find the best. I hate to say it, but these are in second place, only next to Purple Turtle in

Pleasant Grove. They are fresh cut and you get a huge basket.

The onion rings are also stunning. They don't fall apart as you bite them and you can taste that they are hand dipped. A unique part of SCBC is the condiment bar they have in the middle of the restaurant. Pretty much every sauce you can think of from west coast to east coast, and of course the staples like: onions, pickles, mayo, jalepenos, etc. I think there was only a couple of things I was disappointed with the first was the bun, but perhaps it was just an off day, and second was the service. I don't think I have been in a restaurant in a long time where everyone looks so miserable to be at work. Again, perhaps it was just an off day??

pastrami and swiss sandwich

I also liked they have fresca on tap! I didn't try one of their shakes or malts, that will have to be for another trip!

http://www.saltcityburgerco.com/Site/Salt_City_Burger_Co..html

Heavenly Candy

Welcome back foodies!!

As you all know, I am a true believer in making sure local food business is patronized by both locals and travelers. I am thankful I have a place to talk about these businesses.

This weekend at the Bountiful summerfest I was lucky to run across a business called "A piece of Heaven Candy Company." At first, I thought "wow! 8$ for a half pound pecan log!" Then I ate it!! If you enjoy pecan logs and peanut brittle, then you know that good fresh product is hard to come by. This did not disappoint. The fondant center was flavorful but not overwhelming. The homemade caramel was gooey, and the pecans were not soggy at all! The cashew and peanut brittle was very pleasant because it didn't break your teeth and it tasted homemade.

This company has a fabulous story, and right now they only are at festivals and ship from their home. The recipe came from her grandmother in the 50's. Kris has found her love in candy making and has chosen to donate 10% of their sales to a single parent foundation to help them with simple things such as transportation, house payments, and even christmas for their kids.

I promise you, if you are a fan of pecan logs, it is worth every penny!!

http://stores.homestead.com/APieceOfHeavenCandyCo/-strse-template/about/Page.bok