Caroline's Picks - Columbus Culinary Connection

September 18, 2016September 18, 2016 by Caroline

Caroline’s Picks: 5 Food Truck Bowls to Try

Hai Poké: Tuna Bowl

http://www.haipoke.com/

There’s been so much buzz around this newcomer truck, and it is well-deserved. I’m not sure how Hai Poké marinates their sashimi, but I know it’s incredible. Here’s the contents of the tuna bowl: raw tuna, lime, cucumbers, sushi rice, seaweed, scallions, spicy mayo, avocado, power soy sauce, plus a crispy wonton for scooping up all that jazz. Bonus: They have pop-ups every Sunday evening at Zauber Brewing.

Cupzilla: Pork Combo Cup

https://www.facebook.com/cupzillakoreanbbq/

This Korean BBQ truck won my heart when I discovered their sauces come in 5 heat levels, so spice wimps like me can still enjoy those tasty flavors. Cupzilla has their layering technique perfected, and they pack so much into one bowl, I often save half for later. On the bottom, there’s a layer of rice soaked in sweet sauce and lettuce leaves, then rice noodles followed by succulent pork, two craveable sauces, and the whole thing is crowned with a crispy potsticker!

Mai Chau: Noodle Bowl

http://maichaustreetfood.com/

I’ve written about my Mai Chau peanut sauce obsession here, so this Vietnamese spot had to be included. I love that they have sweet and spicy cauliflower as a topping choice (it’s so outside the box) but lemongrass chicken and sriracha pulled pork are available too. Carrots, sprouts, and crushed peanuts add some good crunch to this bowl, and you’ve gotta love the fresh cilantro on top too. Get slurping!

Aloha Streatery: Loco No Moco

https://www.facebook.com/alohastreatery/

Aloha also creates some of my favorite sliders (http://columbusculinaryconnection.com/carolines-picks-5-sliders-to-try/) in town, but don’t forget about their Loco No Moco bowl! Your pick of tofu or Hawaiian-style chicken sits atop a bed of rice with decadent cilantro sauce and chunks of fresh pineapple. It’s simple and delicious, perfect for daydreaming about that tropical vacation.

Aromaku: Bakmi Ayam Bakar

http://www.aromaku.com/

This grilled chicken and noodle dish hits all the flavor notes – it’s sweet, spicy, and salty rolled together. The dish consists of thin egg noodles in a savory broth which are topped with fried onions and tender marinated chicken. I hadn’t eaten Indonesian cuisine before Aromaku, and I had totally been missing out. I wish I had a photo, but I always seem to get so excited I forget to snap one. Give it a try!

What’s your favorite food truck where you can dine on a bowl? Let me know by sending a tweet here: @cbusconnect.

Keep Connected,

Caroline

August 21, 2016August 24, 2016 by Caroline

Caroline’s Picks: 5 Queso Dishes to Try

If you follow this blog at all, you’ve probably picked up on my queso obsession. If I see a menu item with queso at any restaurant, I’ll probably order it; it’s not the fanciest choice, but it sure is delicious. I feel as though there’s a lot of other people that share this passion with me, so I’m rounding up some of my top tastes in Columbus’ cheesy goodness here!

Bodega Columbus: Loaded Truffle Fries

http://www.columbusbodega.com/#home
Bodega Columbus: Loaded Truffle Fries
The only thing that could possibly outshine Bodega’s diverse beer selection is liquid cheese, and you can find it in the form of their loaded fries. Think crispy fries topped with queso, bacon, scallions, and Parmesan, served with a fabulous tomato aioli. You will NOT want to share this starter. They also feature a queso-drizzled pork belly nacho app on their menu that you shouldn’t neglect either!

Balboa: Sampler

http://www.balboagrandview.com/
Balboa: Sampler
The three dip sampler at Grandview’s Balboa highlights two other pretty scrumptious choices, but the only one you need to know about is the crock of queso. So creamy and savory you can eat it plain with a spoon, the generous helping of cheese could be your main meal if you wanted it to be! Wash it down with a signature margarita and your inner dairy-lover will be delighted!

Click here to read my review of Balboa

Hudson 29: Chorizo con Queso

http://www.hudson29.com/

Heatseekers will love the Cameron Mitchell take on queso. With just the right amount of spice coming from the blend of cheese, chorizo, roasted peppers, and a touch of pico de gallo, this is a perfect happy hour snack for your table. At a more upscale restaurant this wouldn’t necessarily be your first choice, but this is not a dish that should be overlooked!

Click here to read my review of Hudson 29

Tortilla Street Food: Nachos

http://www.tortillastreetfood.com/
Tortilla Street Food: Nachos
I’ve shared about my husband’s Tortilla addiction before, but it’s the queso that I think really makes the nachos at this Columbus food truck stand out. Anyone can melt some shredded cheese on chips and call it nachos, but to have queso on there too is something special. Who can resist the combo of guac, carnitas, salsa, and all your other favorites piled high with a ladle full of queso?

Click here to read my review of Tortilla Street Food

Condado Tacos: Tres Amigos

http://www.condadotacos.com/
Condado Tacos: Tres Amigos
Like Balboa, Condado boasts a sampler platter of dips, but with an important distinction – you can get three kinds of queso if you choose! You read that right. Pick from varieties of guacamole, salsas, and queso to make the appetizer of your dreams. For the queso, there are original, corn with spices, balck bean, chorizo, spicy diablo, and “dirty” (chicken, onions, and secret recipe dirty sauce) options. You can also sandwich a hard and a soft taco with queso for an entree!

Click here to read my review of Condado Tacos

Do you have a favorite spot in town to get your cheesy fix? Send me a tweet (@cbusconnect) and let me know!

Keep Connected,

Caroline

in Caroline's Picks / Food / Local Love 1 comments

July 3, 2016August 24, 2016 by Caroline

Caroline’s Picks: 5 Local Treats to Try

We are lucky to have access to some great creators of gourmet treats right here in Columbus. I’ve rounded up some items that I’ve been loving lately, and listed them here for your snacking pleasure.

Rime Time Pops

http://www.rimetimepops.com/
Rime Time Pops

In summertime, nothing can beat a popsicle. But when that icy dessert is carefully crafted with quality ingredients, it makes all the difference. Rime Time creates flavors that are familiar with a hint of something new, and can appeal to both kids and adults alike. My favorite of Cody’s concoctions is the peanut butter and raspberry jam, but I’ve got to get my hands on the newest twists: watermelon habanero and juicy Georgia peach. Just follow the bike with the snowflake sign!

Middle West Spirits OYO Bourbon-Barrel Aged Maple Syrup

http://middlewestspirits.com/
Midwest Spirits Maple Syrup

Is there a better barrel-aged combo than bourbon and maple syrup? Rich, dark, and guaranteed to step up your pancake game, this syrup will absolutely blow your mind. Made by sourcing maple from Ohio farms and cask-aging it in the Middle West Spirits barrels, the syrup is packed with flavor and begs to be put in a cocktail. I picked up this bottle at STUMP plants, and it’s made for some heavenly chocolate French toast.

Katie’s Beef Jerky

http://www.katiesbeefjerky.com/
Katie's Beef Jerky

There’s a great story behind Katie’s Beef Jerky, in that Katie left her job in the corporate world to pursue her passion in the kitchen. I was lucky enough to sample some of her available flavors, and had fun taste-testing! There are varieties such as teriyaki, garlic, ghost pepper, and even pineapple jerky. I have to recommend picking up a variety of flavors and sharing pieces of each with friends, to compare and contrast the heat levels all the way up to ultra-fiery Scorpion XXX! Our favorite was the Half Heat, but I’ve got to try the Black Cherry Bourbon next. You can find Katie’s at the North Market, Celebrate Local, and various Columbus events.

Santo Brigadeiro

Check out their Facebook page

Brigadeiros are a kind of Brazilian truffle, which are super soft, made with condensed milk, and rolled in more goodies such as nuts, sprinkles, or coconut. I’d never had them before until Santo Brigadeiro came along, but when my husband and I were nibbling on these delicacies we kept trying each new flavor and saying, “this one is my favorite.” Then we’d eat another, and change our minds. The cycle continued until we gave up and just accepted the fact that each one of these delights is just as tasty as the last. Bonus: the packaging of the treats is very pretty and ideal for gift-giving!

Root 23 Simple Syrups

http://www.root23.com/
Root 23 Simple Syrups

I’m an admitted addict of Root 23 syrups, because this stuff is just so ridiculously versatile! It comes in flavors like Cherry Almond (hello, bourbon on the rocks), Pear Rosemary, and Vanilla Ginger. Each can be made into a refreshing soda when paired with a glug of tonic water, or stirred into lemonade. Even ice cream, cocktails, and baked goods can be dressed up with a drizzle of Root 23. Sip on each kind and then purchase your favorite at the New Albany Farmers Market.

Keep Connected,

Caroline

Disclosure: Some products were received free of charge. This in no way impacts the nature of my opinions or writing.

in Caroline's Picks / Local Love 0 comments

May 29, 2016August 24, 2016 by Caroline

Caroline’s Picks: 5 Drinks to Try this Summer

Last year I made a list of 5 beers to try during summer, so this year I added some cocktails into the mix. Without further ado:

Seventh Son Brewing: Nimbus Iceberg

Nothing says “I’m a true adult” like a beer slushie! Seventh Son’s offering consists of their own Humulus Nimbus Super Pale Ale, topped with a frozen scoop of a homemade Paloma slushie. It’s bitter, citrusy, and drowning in tequila, guaranteed to cool you down once warmer temps hit.

http://seventhsonbrewing.com/

Condado Tacos: Margarita Flight

The only thing better than one fruity margarita? Three! Wash down Condado’s guacamole and salty chips with your choice of 3 mini margs, and you’ll be ready for sunshine. Choices include typical flavors such as strawberry and peach, but blood orange, prickly pear, and kiwi are wonderful selections too.

http://www.condadotacos.com/

Brothers Drake: Summer Apple Mead

Brothers Drake

I love Brothers Drake’s Apple Pie mead as much as the next gal, but it can evoke fall more than summer. The solution? Give their Summer Apple mead a whirl! This new offering is made with crisp, tart Granny Smith apples and no cidery spices. The result is all the apple goodness you want in your mead, in a much lighter version.

http://www.brothersdrake.com/

Land-Grant Brewing: Greenskeeper Session IPA

Since session IPA’s are the ideal summer beer, I had to include one on this list. Land-Grant recently started canning this drinkable brew, and it’s available in stores all over the city. With the Memorial Tournament coming up, I can’t think of a better way to celebrate the start of patio season than by cracking open this 4.7% beer.

https://www.landgrantbrewing.com/

Rhubarb Sunrise

Rhubarb is one of those rare Ohio garden items that is ready early in the season. Track some down at your local farmer’s market or in the freezer section, and whip up a tangy-sweet syrup that is delicious for cocktail-making. I like to mix a few tablespoons of rhubarb syrup with Watershed vodka, a splash of orange juice, and top it off with sparking water for a perfect summer sipper. The natural pink hue can’t be beat!

See my recipe for rhubarb soda:
http://columbusculinaryconnection.com/rhubarb-soda/

in Caroline's Picks / Drink 0 comments

April 10, 2016August 24, 2016 by Caroline

5 Egg-cellent Dishes to Try

A ho-hum entrée can be transformed by the unctuous, drippy center of a just-cooked egg; there’s really no limit to the cuisine the incredible, edible ingredient can boost, from Mexican chilaquiles to a spicy pizza. Egg dishes also photograph well, thanks to the pop of sunny yellow yolk. Columbus restaurant chefs recognize the power of huevos too! Below, I’ve rounded up some of my favorite local menu items which get their extra special something from the addition of eggs.

Egg Tart: Fox in the Snow Café

http://www.foxinthesnow.com/

There’s something so perfect about the egg tarts at the Italian Village spot. Buttery, flaky crust frames a tender egg sprinkled with chives, and leaves you wanting to order a million more. The café touts an excellent egg sandwich crowned with arugula, so make a return visit to sample that as well!

Breakfast Pizza: Forno Kitchen + Bar

http://www.fornoshortnorth.com/

I’ve written about my passion for this pizza before, but I won’t hesitate to do it again. Who would’ve guessed that Brussels + pancetta + cheese + oozy eggs = the breakfast of my dreams? This pie is charred in all the right places, and is best paired with a mimosa for maximum enjoyment.

Pierogi with an Egg: Sophie’s Pierogi

http://www.sophiesgourmet.com/

This little food cart puts out some of my favorite mobile food in town, and provides proof that eggs work for dinner too. Order up some piergoi with roasted garlic paprika butter, and make sure to add a fried egg. It comes with caramelized onions, sour cream, and a full belly.

Egg Sammy: Kittie’s Cakes

http://kittiescakes.com/

Only available on Sunday mornings while supplies last, this egg dish is so good, I’ve never gotten a good photo of it. Kittie’s offering consists of a fluffy egg sandwiched between a split biscuit sprinkled with everything bagel spice. If this treat doesn’t get you out of bed, nothing will.

Poutine: Hoof Hearted Brewery + Kitchen

http://www.hoofhearted.bar/

This isn’t your basic egg-topped poutine, it’s innovative comfort food at its finest. Once popped, the savory egg yolk envelops chunky potatoes, onion rings, cheese curds, jalapeno, and more. All the components come together to make the ideal appetizer for brewery fun.

Keep Connected,

Caroline

in Caroline's Picks / Food 0 comments

March 6, 2016August 24, 2016 by Caroline

5 Columbus Bacon Dishes to Try

5 Bacon Dishes
When it comes to bacon dishes, I’ve tried it all. This year’s Ohio Bacon Fest at the Columbus Commons was my dream, and I sampled everything from bacon pecan pie made by The Pearl to bacon-cheddar popcorn courtesy of Pam’s North Market Popcorn. Knowing my weakness for anything bacon-related, a friend even bought me bacon dental floss once (it’s probably not approved by the American Dental Association). But what if you are looking for a bacon fix at one of Columbus’ local restaurants in the meantime? Here are some of my favorite dishes that can satisfy those cravings for meat candy any time.

Katalina’s Original Sweet & Spicy Bacon

Katalinas Sweet and Spicy Bacon

One of my go-to breakfast spots in Cbus is Katalina’s, and nothing pairs better with pancake balls or avocado tacos than Katalina’s Original Sweet & Spicy Bacon. The bacon is served in thick slices, is crisp but still has a good amount of chewiness, and is slathered in a mix of sticky and savory spices. It is way too addictive, do not plan on sharing. http://www.katalinascafe.com/

Lamb Bacon at Brassica

Bacon doesn’t have to be traditional to be delicious. The lamb bacon at Brassica is unlike anything you’ve ever tried before. Who knew bacon belonged with pitas and hummus and even spicy carrots? The kitchen makes the lamb bacon themselves, curing it and brushing on a tasty pepper glaze. You won’t miss the pork here; this delight is smoky and wonderful. http://brassicashortnorth.com/

Chocolate Bacon Donut at Destination Donuts

As any true bacon aficionado will tell you, bacon can go well in desserts and other sugary applications! Everyone likes a sweet and salty combo, and Destination Donuts knows how to play that game. Order their Chocolate Bacon donut for the most mouthwatering breakfast you’ve ever imagined. Think tender dough, dark chocolate, and crunchy bacon bits. Heaven! http://www.destinationdonuts.com/

Bacon Risotto at Veritas Tavern

Bacon Risotto from Veritas Tavern

If there’s one thing I can guarantee in this life, it’s that bacon + runny egg + risotto = sheer perfection. At Veritas Tavern, they coax every bit of bacony goodness out when preparing their Bacon Risotto, and the end result is spectacular. If you’ve been told that classy restaurants can’t do bacon, let this Delaware spot prove naysayers wrong. http://www.veritastavern.com/menus/

Bacon Breakfast Sausage Patties at Blystone Farm

Bacon Breakfast Sausage patties at Blystone Farm

If you like to whip up bacon-centric meals at home, check out the Bacon Breakfast Sausage patties at Blystone Farm in Canal Winchester. This local butcher gives you the best of both worlds by grinding up bacon into their house sausage mix, which are the perfect size for sliders or breakfast munching. They also sell slabs of their bacon, which is so tempting as well. http://blystonefarm.com/

Keep Connected,

Caroline

in Caroline's Picks / Food / Local Love 3 comments

January 31, 2016August 24, 2016 by Caroline

5 North Market Treats to Take Home

Visitors and residents alike delight in everything North Market has to offer: Katzinger’s sandwiches, Pistacia Vera macarons, cheeses, fall-off-the bone ribs, craft beer, and of course, Hot Chicken Takeover. I want every single thing, pronto. But sometimes there is so much to do and see, that is it easy to be overwhelmed by the deliciousness overload when deciding what goodies to grab for later. Here are 5 unique items found at North Market that are awesome to enjoy at home!

Everything Bagel Spice Mix – North Market Spices

http://www.northmarketspices.com

North Market Spices have perfectly portioned packets of every herb and spice you could ever dream of, and a couple more to boot. One of my favs is the everything bagel mix. It’s perfect for sprinkling on steaks, grilled veggies, and (naturally) yeasty bread of any variety. The spice gurus also sell seasoning mixes from local joints, like Katalina’s Spicy Hot Chocolate and Double Comfort’s fiery heat mix.

Frozen Chocolate Chunk and Sea Salt Pretzel Twists – Brezel

http://brezelpower.com

In my quest to eat all things sweet and salty, I’m lucky to have found my mecca, Brezel. The pretzel eatery offers all variety of pretzels ranging from jalapeño to French onion. They carry some frozen options as well, for you to take home and bake later. I’m loving the Chocolate Chunk and Sea Salt twists though. Chocolate is rolled into doughy, twisty goodness, partially baked, and then frozen and put in bags for your take-home enjoyment. You sprinkle on the salt after baking to keep it crunchy!

Coffee & Brown Sugar Bacon – North Country Charcuterie

https://www.facebook.com/NCCharcuterie/

I’m pretty sure I can exist on a charcuterie diet, and fortunately North Country Charcuterie has started a pop-up shop at North Market. They create some scrumptious salami using Rockmill beers and Blue Jacket cheeses, and something else wonderful: coffee and brown sugar bacon. It’s everything you want at breakfast, in one tasty slice. Bake it in the oven for maximum flavor and crispiness.

Gorgonzola and Pear Ravioli – Pastaria

http://www.pastarianorthmarket.com

Pastaria has oodles of noodles up for sale, along with some killer sweet potato gnocchi and many sauces. But a fun take-home choice is a pound of the Gorgonzola and Pear ravioli. All you need for an impressive entree is some boiling water and a splash of brown butter to pour over these pretty pasta parcels.

Apple Pie Salsa – CaJohns Fiery Foods

http://cajohns.com/store/

My husband will try literally any hot sauce out there, so we always end up carting out some CaJohns. But they also have some fun salsa options, ranging from strawberry to pumpkin and more. A fun selection? Apple Pie Salsa! You’ve had apple pie moonshine and regular ole apple pie, but salsa? Try it! This salsa is savory and cinnamon-laden with chunks of apples. I had the first round with chips, but can’t wait to pour it over pork tenderloin.

What are your favorite North Market treats? Let me know in the comments below.

Keep Connected,

Caroline

in Caroline's Picks / Local Love 1 comments

November 29, 2015August 24, 2016 by Caroline

Caroline’s Picks: 5 Columbus Pizzas I Love

Pizza might be the best food there is. Period. It has bread and cheese, plus it’s socially appropriate to dip it in garlic butter, so I’m on board. Fortunately for those of us who reside in Columbus, we have so many great options in the pizza department. This list isn’t all-inclusive, but here are 5 of the most craveable pies in central Ohio, a mix of traditional and unique styles.

Spicy Yuma: Harvest Pizzeria

Heat seekers will love this sublime creation topped with a chipotle-spiked sauce, corn, chorizo, roasted peppers, cheese, and jalapenos. All this deliciousness is placed atop a wood-fired crust that will leave you wanting more!

Pepperoni Pizza: Tommy’s Pizza

Perfect for a post-tailgate meal, campus-area Tommy’s is one of my favorites since childhood. A classic take on pepperoni pie, this offering is anything but boring. With an ultra-thin crust and crispy-edged pepperoni, everyone will enjoy this pizza.

Pimento Cheese Pizza: Diamond Jim’s

Pimento cheese on a pizza? Yes please! The tasty southern spread (with just a little kick to it) is slathered on a cornmeal-dusted crust, along with strips of bacon and a sprinkle of lettuce and banana peppers. Don’t miss this downtown Lancaster treat!

Pepperoni Pizza: Mikey’s Late Night Slice

Served by the slice, Mikey’s pizzas are the ideal food to accompany your adult beverage of choice. Best of all? Each joint has serve your own sauce stations with ranch, spicy ranch, garlic, and the fiery Sauce-That-Shall-Not-Be-Named. Find the trucks around town, or at one of the many brick-and mortar locations.

Falafel Pitza: Aladdin’s Eatery

For a new twist on pizza, give the falafel-topped pie at this Grandview spot a taste. I am so obsessed with this concoction of tahini yogurt, falafel, sliced banana peppers, diced tomatoes, and parsley, all on a pita base.

These are just few of the pizzas I love. Which ones are your favorite? Let me know in the comments below!

Keep Connected,

Caroline

in Caroline's Picks / Food / Local Love 0 comments

November 1, 2015August 24, 2016 by Caroline

Caroline’s Picks: 5 Sliders to Try

There’s something about sliders. They are perfectly bite-sized, a platter of them is ideal for sharing, and they are full of flavor. Columbus restaurants and food trucks have some great slider offerings; some of them have very unique fillings! Here is a breakdown of some of my favorite sliders in town:

Quinoa Slider: Strongwater Food and Spirits

Strongwater has a ridiculously awesome vegetarian menu; so good that it almost makes me reconsider my carnivore status. Almost. It sounds crazy, but the quinoa “patty” on this slider is fabulous. Add some microgreens, vegan mayo, and a sweet-and-sour tomato sauce, and you’ve got a winning combo.

OH! Classic Slider: OH! Burgers

Slider purists will cherish these mini burgers. With a juicy beef center and toppings of cheddar, bacon, mayo, lettuce, tomato, and onion, these sliders pair well with a cold beer. That’s lucky, since you can often find this truck at Land-Grant Brewing!

Mac and Cheese Slider: Cray Eatery and Drinkery

Looking for a calorie splurge? This little bite of heaven has all the elements you’d ever want: a deep-fried macaroni and cheese patty, bacon, ranch, and a pretzel bun. Check out their other slider offerings too! The majority of the menu is fun styles of small sandwiches.

Pork Belly Lotus Slider: Aloha Steatery

Aloha’s concept of steam bun sliders is fresh and satisfying. My favorite of their steam bun sammies? The pork belly, drizzled with sweet BBQ and a sprinkle of cilantro. All these goodies are tucked into a soft, warm pocket of dough. Yes please!

Spicy Saigon Sliders: Mai Chau

The sweet and spicy sliders from this Vietnamese truck was one of the most memorable items I tried at this year’s Food Truck Festival. Flavorful pulled pork saturated in hot sauce is finished with a crunchy slaw to cool it all down, making this slider offering is a must-try.

Have some suggestions for other Cbus slider joints? Let me know in the comments below.

Keep Connected,

Caroline

in Caroline's Picks / Food / Local Love 0 comments

September 16, 2015August 24, 2016 by Caroline

Caroline’s Picks: 5 Bourbon Cocktails to Try

I’ve never been shy about the fact that I enjoy bourbon. I think it is perfect on the rocks, but I also love it in a cocktail. With bourbon’s rise in popularity, many of our local distillers have been rushing to create bourbon offerings of their own. With selections like Watershed Bourbon, OYO Bourbon Whiskey Michelone Reserve, and newcomer Mill Street Distillery Bourbon, there are certainly plenty of on-the-rocks options. But if you are looking for a blended cocktail, here are 5 bourbon-based cocktails to catch in Columbus.