The Old Switcheroo

If you have not noticed on Park Street that Havana closed and renamed itself Habanas. The restaurant looks the same with the same color scheme, the only difference is the name change. I wonder what happened to the owner?

Park Street & West Side Closures

I wasn't surprised to hear that Boniere Bakery went out of business. The products they made were questionable, even though it was an Alameda institution and was in operation for many generations. Perhaps people these days are more finicky than decades past and are always searching for new or legendary signature products.

After a beautiful renovation, The Fireside Lounge on Webster Street is for sale. The bar looked great and much more hip than what it use to be. Even though the other bars on Webster are still in business, they look somewhat sad. Why do the attractive places in Alameda not do well. Another one bites the dust...The first victim was Aquacotta.

Pearl's Deluxe Burgers is Now Open

Finally, Pearl's Deluxe Burgers is open in the mall. It has taken a long time to get this business in operation. I am ecstatic that this new burger joint is open. I love a delicious and juicy burger. Burgermeister, you better watch out!

New Zealander Revisited

Went to eat at the new and improved New Zealander. The menu has improved since the former owner with pictures and colors, but the food selection was mainly the same. I ordered the old standby of the Steak and Cheese meat pie with salad. I have to say the meat pie had more filling compared to times past, but the flavor and texture lacked appeal. The meat was mushy in the middle. I am not sure if the pie was suppose to be meat loaf like? I would not order this meat pie again. On a positive note, the crust was nice and flaky.

The service was a bit troublesome as well. The dining room was one-third full and it took over 20 minutes to get a menu. It then took more time to place an order even though water was quick to the table. Eating with a small group of people took over two hours for dinner and that did not include dessert.

Ordering beers is a safer way to go at this restaurant and bar.

I Can't Believe it was Busy

I was driving the other night on Park Street and passed Yo! Philly Cheesesteaks. The store was packed. People were eating at the counter, others were waiting for their food and more people were waiting in line to order. I was amazed at the crowd.

Dreadful Beef Teriyaki at Angelfish

I was hungry and I was on Bay Farm wanting food. I went to Angelfish and ordered the Beef Teriyaki. On the menu, one does not know the cut of beef you get when you order this entree. When the beef came to the table, the beef was thinly sliced with the teriyaki glaze on top. The teriyaki sauce tasted well, but the beef was full of fat. The beef was not tender and it was tough. I do not recommend this dish and stick to the sushi and rolls.

Fruit Smoothies

Fruit smoothies use to be difficult to find in Alameda. Thankfully that problem is no longer a problem. Jamba Juice is new to the mall and Cafe Central makes great smoothies at Park and Central. The prices are also reasonable at Cafe Central and if you order the daily special at Jamba Juice, the prices are affordable.

If you are seeking a sweeter beverage, go to Quickly on Park Avenue with the tapioca pearl drinks.