Food

Ten Things in Napa Valley

Posted by golfkat on September 18, 2022
Posted in: Action, Cultures, Entertainment, Food, Shopping, Travel, Wine. Leave a comment

From Visit Napa Valley website:

Yes, Napa Valley is one of the most luxurious luxury destinations in the world. That doesn’t mean everything here costs a pretty penny. The truth is that Napa County boasts a host of destinations and activities that are totally free. Here are our top 10.

  1. Shop the market
    The Napa Farmers’ Market  is the county’s largest and regularly boasts more than 100 vendors, artisans, and purveyors. On Saturdays, it’s also one of the very few markets in the region that operates year-round. The market is held in the City of Napa parking lot at 1100 West Street, two blocks from the Oxbow. Our advice: Go before 9 a.m. to score popular treats such as English Muffins from Model Bakery.
     
  2. Explore ‘Cowville’
    One of the most scenic roads in Yountville is Yount Mill Road, a ribbon of concrete that winds out of town to the north and reconnects with Highway 29 near Mustards Grill. The best way to experience the road: On foot. Along the stroll you can feed hay to longhorns that graze fields to the east, munch on crab apples, and soak up the scenery. The best part: You’re never more than 10 minutes from downtown.
     
  3. Wander Calistoga’s Labyrinth
    Wellness practitioners and Zen masters say labyrinths are great places to meditate and dive deep into thought. The Indian Springs Labyrinth on Lincoln Avenue in downtown Calistoga definitely is worth a visit. The circular pathway is adjacent to an art gallery and is a short walk from the spa pools at Indian Springs. It’s also near The Depot, the newest project from Jean-Charles Boisset.
     
  4. Summit Mount St. Helena
    You haven’t really arrived in Wine Country until you’ve hiked to the summit of Mount St. Helena and enjoyed a bottle of rose before the fog burns off below you. The mountain is in Robert Louis Stevenson State Park and the summit is accessed by the Stevenson trail that winds from the top of Highway 29. Allow about three hours for the grueling ascent; the scramble down goes much faster.
     
  5. Disc golf at Skyline
    Frisbee golf is serious business at Skyline Wilderness Park  in southern Napa. This expansive park has a 400-acre, 18-hole course with DIScatcher baskets; the Marvin Paul-designed course is technical with steep grassy hillsides. The entire course can be played in less than two hours—even less if you only throw nine. Follow the course by using the tee signs on each hole.
     
  6. Drink up Napa art
    Sculptures on the free and public Napa Art Walk change every year, and for the year starting August 2021 the exhibit comprises 10 sculptures from seven artists representing four western states. Online maps help visitors navigate the art walk. For a fulfilling detour, check out the Rail Arts District, where local artists have painted giant murals on walls of buildings that line the Wine Train, train tracks.
     
  7. Pay culinary homage
    More than 4,000 artifacts of specialty cookware, bread baking and culinary tools, appliances, and tableware comprise the permanent exhibit about Chuck Williams at CIA Copia . Williams was a popular local chef who went on to launch the housewares company Williams Sonoma. Today the collection of odd-shaped tureens and a duck de-boning machine are among the most bizarre of the items on exhibit.
     
  8. Look up
    Depending on the time of year, hot-air balloons are a common sight in the skies above the Napa Valley. The good news: Ogling at these giant floating orbs is totally free. Most balloons leave right around sunrise to get aloft before the wind picks up. This means it’s probably best to hit up a local independent coffee shop and find a flat and open space for your watch party.
     
  9. Observing the Oxbow
    Napa’s Oxbow Public Market  essentially put public markets on the map; though others in the United States came before it, no others have quite perfected the luxury angle. While food and trinkets at the Oxbow can be expensive, wandering around to investigate the goodies and wares doesn’t cost a cent. To experience peak rush hour, plan to visit around lunchtime on a weekend.
     
  10. Critter-watching in delta
    Birding is the name of the game at Wetlands Edge Park in American Canyon, the southernmost city in the entire county. The park comprises roughly five miles of trails in all, including dirt paths that parallel the Napa River where it meets San Pablo Bay. In mornings, usually right around sunrise, the waters are teeming with herons and other birds. Be sure to bring a camera.

Napa Valley will aways be my favorite.  I started visiting in the 60s, when we were invited by Allied Growers to visit some of the wineries they owned, such as BV, and Inglenook.  Back then, tastings, even dinners, were FREE!!  My how things have changed.

I do enjoy other wine regions, such as the Central Coast, New Zealand, Mendoza, Bordeaux, Champagne, Willamette Valley, Sonoma, Loire, Chile, Central Washington, and even Madera-Fresno.  But one area I did not enjoy was Temecula, quite overrated.

Several news articles have emphasized how expensive Napa Valley has become.  Wine tasting fees hover around $100, often more for upscale places.  Add in hotel, meals, wine purchases and gas, resulting in a very expensive weekend.

Note:  I have only done #9, I have my work cut out for me!!!

Bonnie Raitt(s) a Trip to Napa

Posted by golfkat on September 18, 2022
Posted in: Action, Cultures, Entertainment, Food, Music, Travel. Leave a comment

Any trip to Napa these days is special, since we get to see our dear friends, Chris and Paul.  You may recall, they were on my cycling trip and cruise to Croatia last May.  I think they travel more than I do, but I am happy for them.  They deserve it.

We are here ostensibly to attend a Bonnie Raitt concert at the Oxbow Riverstage on Saturday night.  But we will spend the afternoon wine tasting in Napa Valley, enjoy a nice dinner, and hit the concert venue.  Sunday, we will “peddle for pancakes” as Paul has proclaimed.  Every Sunday, when they are home, they cycle about 20 miles, then stop at the Yountville golf course for pancakes or breakfast. We have done this once before with them.  And it is always fun. 

On our way back from Napa, we will stop (maybe) in the Livermore wine country as well.  Of course, we will be in a hurry to rescue Lexi from Elaines’ Pet Resort.

A bit about Bonnie Raitt.  Here is some information from her website:

She was raised in Los Angeles, in the Quaker tradition and a commitment to social activism.  A Stella guitar was a Christmas present that launched her career at the age of 8.  She is enshrined in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, won ten Grammys, and has published twenty-one albums.  She has become an institution in American music.  She has performed duets with other famous musicians including  John Lee Hooker, Willie Nelson, Aretha Franklin, BB King, Tony Bennett, and Ray Charles.

Needless to say, this is an action-packed weekend with two special people.  But I am sorry to miss their sidekicks, Tommy “Two Shoes”, and Miss Irene.

Despite the growth of many wine regions here in California, and elsewhere, Napa Valley is still my favorite.  Why?  Three reasons, one, I started coming here in the Sixties, when Napa was the really “poor” sister to France and Bordeaux.  And two, we sold some of our grapes to a conglomerate here, Allied Vintners, which became part of Heublein, which became part of ?? who knows!   Three, and most importantly, for most of my adult life, Napa was about an hour away from home.

What do we really know about Napa other than wineries, good food, and the Napa Vine Trail?  The median income here is about $86,000 annually.  The city has only 78,000 people, rather exclusive.  

Napa Valley contains about 25% of California’s wineries but represents only 4% of our state’s wine production.  And only 0.4% of the world’s wine production.  Only 44,000 acres are under cultivation for grapes, with about 700 growers.  Yet, there are 16 approved AVA’s.  Over half the vineyards are planted with Cabernet.

The economic impact is about $10 billion annually, and nearly $50 billion to the US annually.  

Why is Yountville so famous?  A pioneer by the name of George Yount presumably planted the first wine grapes here, around 1838 or 1839.  But John Patchett opened the first commercial vineyard in 1861, followed by Charles Krug, a name you recognize, I am sure.  And now, over 5 million people visit Napa Valley annually.  In California, only Disneyland draws more people!

Napa’s worldwide claim to fame: Napa wines earned their fame in The 1976 Judgement Of Paris when a panel of French judges, in a blind tasting, voted the 1973 Chateau Montelena Chardonnay and the 1973 Stag’s Leap Cabernet Sauvignon as the top white and red, beating out the French competitors.  It is NEVER mentioned in France!!  All they do is bad mouth Napa Valley.

Enough facts for now, Joe (Friday).  It is time to go wine tasting and relax at the concert. Oh, and Mavis Staples was the warm up, and she was fabulous!!!

Another Oktoberfest

Posted by golfkat on September 16, 2022
Posted in: Action, Cultures, Entertainment, Food, Travel. Leave a comment

The real Oktoberfest in Munich starts Saturday (Sep. 17)!!!  I really do not have the time to re-trace my travel steps, at this point in my life.  But this is one event that would be fun.

From 2010:

I see there are some places in the United States that celebrate the Oktoberfest, much like they do in Munich each year.  Of special note is the 200th anniversary of the Oktoberfest this year (2010).  It began on October 12, 1810 when Crown Prince Ludwig, who later became King Ludwig I of Bavaria, married Princess Therese of Saxony-Hidburghausen.  The royal festivities that followed have become part of this big yearly tradition.  It is now known over the world as Oktoberfest with over 7 million people, even though it begins in September (today), and ends this year on October 6 (a full 14 days later).

If there is one event in Europe to attend, that is a non sporting event, this is IT!  It is the biggest two week party I have ever seen or been a part of.  For the 200th anniveresary, special events will take place.  These include:  folk music, dance displays, and horse races that are meant to emulate the celebration of 200 years ago.  Most visitors, however, come for the festivities, including the fourteen HUGE beer tents.

The places in the U.S. are as follows:

Fredericksburg, Texas Hill Country  (Texans are worthy beer drinkers, at least as good as the Germans)

Catskills, New York (I have a hard time seeing this one)

Columbus, Ohio (actually runs 365 days a year, my kind of beer town)

Zinzinnati, Ohio (the largest Oktoberfest outside of Munchen)

Milwaukee, Wisconsin (fifteen acres large and a big fish fry for local flavor)

LaCrosse, WI (fifty year tradition with 3 mile long parade and Miss Oktoberfest contest)

Epcot Center, Orlando  (The Biergarten, been there, good food, bad beer)

Leavenworth, WA (Bavarian themed town with lots of oompahpah and beer)

Chicago, IL (St. Alphonsus Church with music by the Bratwurst Brothers and the Polkaholics)

Alpine Village, Torrance, CA (since 1968, lasting for 8 weeks, advance tickets available now)

 

First, the beer is without peer.  The wooden kegs are iced down at the brewery and driven to the Oktoberfest grounds by horse drawn wagons, by lederhosen clad drivers and wenches (or whatever the German term is for them).  The horses seem in no particular hurry.  But just seeing the ice melting over the wooden kegs is enough to whet even the driest thirst.  I just hoped they would drop a keg, and we could all run up and drink all we could before it went down the drain.

A seat inside one of the fourteen tents usually requires a ticket or reservation.  These are held by families for decades, and often passed from father to son.  Unknown to me, we sat down, ordered a beer, and got kicked out.  But not after slurping the liter mug of the best beer I have ever had.  And those busty German Fraus can carry about ten or twelve mugs, without losing a drop!

But a seat in the area outside of the tent is actually better for finding food, meeting young Germans, and starting beer and food fights.  I met three really neat German kids when I was there.  We met every day around 3pm, probably when they sobered up from the previous day.  I actually ended up writing to Hans for many years after, trying to get him to visit me in the U.S.  Anyway, after spending 6 to 8 hours at the Oktoberfest grounds, we took a taxi to their local hangout, and of course, drank some more beer.

The food was equally good and interesting.  My personal favorite was the mackerel and herring (or any white fish) that was barbecued outdoors over hot coals.  After choosing a fish, the monger would wrap it in several layers of newspaper.  Then, back at the drinking table, we would unwrap the fish, eat it down to the bone on the newspaper, and roll up the scraps and bones after.  It was a neat little package.

Of course, we supplemented this with an array of German sausages and brats, along with a huge spiral cut white radish.  It became a favorite as well, and I have never seen it since.  Our favorite spot was the Lowenbrau tent and their beer, a special brew served only at the Oktoberfest.  Their twin lions on their oversized beer bottle would roar on the hour and half hour.  After sundown, the light shows started, and the crowds got bigger.  It was impossible to walk a straight line.  So, we joined hands (with Hans) in a conga line, and followed Hans to various stops on the grounds.  I am sure we upset many a German and his family.

Fortunately, my hostel was back near the Bahnhof, so I could not get lost.  I just had to ask or tell a cab driver to get me to the train station.  Was it Mark Twain that said, “Too bad youth is wasted on the young”?  This was true for me on this particular trip.  Though I had a great time, I did not really delve very deeply into German lore and culture, unless you consider beer to be their Grail.  Perhaps I did find their soul and their hopes and dreams in a liter mug of great beer!

 This even should be on your water pail list, even if you don’t drink beer.  It is a great event.  The Germans are so much fun after a few beers!!!

Cooling Off at the Coast

Posted by golfkat on September 9, 2022
Posted in: Cultures, Entertainment, Food, Golf, Shopping, Sports, Travel, Wine. Leave a comment

We are tired of the hot weather!  This weekend will range around 110 or higher in the great Valley.  I think we need to drive over to the Monterey Peninsula and cool off!!  I am sure Lexi would welcome her walks in cooler weather as well.

But first, on the way, I think we need to stop at the factory outlets in Gilroy for a little retail therapy.  Then after lunch, perhaps In N Out Burger, we will finish the drive to Monterey.  Hopefully, we can visit a few dear friends during our visit.  Also, I want to take Lexi to the beach, maybe drive 17 Mile Drive, and have some seafood pasta at Abalonetti on the Monterey wharf.

For a real change of pace, I think I will hit one of the wine tasting rooms in Monterey.  I tried Caraccioli (tasting room) in downtown Carmel. In fact, it was so good, I went two days in a row!!!  Their brut rose’ is very good,  I bought one, though a bit pricey.  More affordable is their Rose’ of Pinot Noir at only $30 a bottle. 

The highlight for me is taking Lexi for a walk on Carmel Beach, running along the shore, while gazing up at the Pebble Beach Golf Links.  She loves the beach and does not mind the sand in her little paws.  She also enjoys the beaches elsewhere, though the sea lions were barking aplenty at the Monterey Wharf.

One of our dear friends down here is Big John, over at the Inn at Spanish Bay.  We have know him for over 25 years, when he was still a waiter at Abalonetti.  He has been the head bellman at Spanish Bay for over three decades now.  He told an interesting story about us at the President of Pebble Beach’s retirement dinner.  Upon leaving our little cocktail party during a stay at the Lodge at Pebble some years ago, he saw the light was on in the President’s office.  He would see the “boss man” arrive at 6am every morning as well.  He figured if the President was willing to work that hard, so would he and his staff!!

A few other places down here catch my attention.  Thinker Toys is a great toy and hobby shop in downtown Carmel.  We also like Hedi’s Shoes on Ocean Avenue.  We buy our Hoka 1’s there.  And our Turkish lamp store is also on Ocean Avenue.  But best of all, I found some Turkish Delight at a store on Cannery Row.  the owner says it is 100% imported from Istanbul, since he cannot buy the right ingredient here.

The weather has been great, in the 60s and 70s mostly, while back home hit record heat in the 110+ range.  I highly recommend this form of therapy, both for physical and mental health.  Sheri even bought a jacket!!

And maybe best of all, we found a pretty good Chinese restaurant in Monterey, with excellent chow fun, and Peking spare ribs!!!

The Importance of Rice

Posted by golfkat on September 3, 2022
Posted in: Travel, Food, Cultures, Action. Leave a comment

Over two billion people worldwide rely on rice as their primary food. According to new study by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, increasing levels of carbon dioxide are not only warming the planet, but also severely lowering the nutritional value of key crops like rice. CO2-exposed rice has dramatically less iron, zinc, and B vitamins.

Speaking of rice and Japan:  Did you know there are over 30,000 certified sommeliers in Japan, 13k of whom are women? A modest 26.5% of all Japanese sommelier candidates pass the exams as sommelier training is quite rigorous there. This year marks the 50th anniversary of Japan’s induction into the International Association of Sommeliers. Japan also boasts countless wine schools and a flourishing wine book industry. I have never encountered one, that I can recall.

​Some basic rice information:  

Rice is a main staple in more than 100 countries worldwide.  In some households, rice is included with more than one meal a day. This starchy high-calorie grain is generally low cost, making it accessible to all and a vital base of many diets. Each country showcases a rice specialty to reflect local spices and taste preferences: risotto in Italy, paella in Spain, jambalaya in the southern U.S., coconut rice in Colombia, steamed rice in China, rice and beans in Mexico, and sweet rice in Portugal, to name a few.

The scientific name for rice is Oryza. Oryza sativa is the most common species and is subdivided into the long-grain indica, and short-grain japonica. Tools for farming rice have been found in China dating back 8000 years. Merchant traders helped the gradual spread of rice across the continents.

There are thousands (over 40,000) of types of Oryza sativa, which can differ in size, thickness, stickiness, color, aroma, and flavor. Rice is often broadly categorized based on its shape or method of processing:

Long, short, or medium grain

This refers to the length and width of the rice grain after cooking:

  • Long grains have a slender kernel over four times as long as they are wide. When cooked, long grain rice stays separate and fluffy (e.g., Jasmine and Basmati rice).
  • Medium grains have a shorter, wider kernel, yielding a tender and semi-sticky consistency when cooked (e.g., Arborio rice).
  • Short grains have a kernel only twice as long as they are wide, and yield the stickiest texture when cooked (e.g., “sushi” rice).

Is the rice in its whole, intact form (like “brown” rice), or has it been milled and polished (like “white” rice)?

  • Whole: Just like all whole grains, rice naturally contains three edible components—the bran, germ, and endosperm (the inedible hull is removed). “Brown” rice is the typical whole grain rice, though this describes not a particular variety but the natural color of the grain. However, whole grain rice is not limited to one color—it also comes in shades of black, purple, and red. Because the fibrous bran layer and nutrient-rich germ remain intact, these varieties typically take longer to cook, and have a nuttier and chewier texture than refined white rice.
  • Refined: Rice that is polished to remove the bran layers and embryo so that only the starchy white endosperm remains—hence the name “white” rice (again, this refers to the color and not one particular variety). The milling and polishing process removes the majority of naturally occurring B vitamins, minerals, phytochemicals, and fiber, so B vitamins and iron are added back. Food labels will display the term “enriched” to indicate this. However, only a fraction of the original amount of these nutrients is added back.

Of course, when it comes to cooking, specific varieties of rice are often chosen for their unique characteristics. Here are a few popular types:

  • Arborio: A medium-grain rice popular for making risotto and puddings. It undergoes less milling than long-grain rice so it retains more starch, which is released during cooking to produce a naturally creamy consistency without becoming mushy. Unlike other rice cooking methods, water must be added to Arborio rice gradually in segments, with constant stirring, to produce the creamy texture of risotto. Arborio rice is available in both brown and white versions.
  • Basmati, Jasmine: These are varieties of long-grain rice with fragrant aromas that are available in both brown and white versions.
  • Black (Forbidden), Purple, or Red: These types of short or medium-grain colorful rice contain a natural plant phytochemical called anthocyanins, a flavonoid with antioxidant properties that is also found in blueberries and blackberries. Their nutritious bran and germ layers are intact similar to brown rice.
  • Glutinous: Named for its glue-like consistency (not for gluten, which it does not contain), this short-grain rice is especially sticky when cooked. This is because it contains primarily one component of starch, called amylopectin, while other types of rice contain both amylopectin and amylose. Glutinous rice is particularly popular throughout Asia, and is available in a range of colors including white, brown, and black/purple.

I usually make one pot full of rice each week.  I use an electric rice cooker, which is basically fail safe, and makes perfect rice each time.  I alternate among several types of rice:  Basmati, 

Japanese short grain (Kokuho or Nishiki), or a basic long grain.  Leftover rice makes excellent fried rice. And once in a while, when Lexi has an upset tummy, I make her a small pot of rice porridge.

When I travel anywhere other than Asia, I miss having my rice.

Why Visit a Supermarket While Traveling

Posted by golfkat on August 28, 2022
Posted in: Cultures, Food, Shopping, Travel. Leave a comment

Though I really enjoy visiting supermarkets in foreign countries, there are benefits to visiting domestic supermarkets as well.   But the point is, do not overlook the supermarket for a worthwhile adventure while on the road.

Over the years, we have discovered some really interesting gift items and experiences.  One of my first visits in a foreign country was in London back in the 70s.  I found the “Wagon Wheel” brand on boxes of produce.  The Sorensen family were near and dear to our family since they managed my Grandmother’s farm in Sanger when my family was sent to a WW2 Relocation Camp in Gila, Arizona.  Sadly, I think the brand is gone, but the Sorensen’s live on!

Often times, I see our Kingsburg based Sun Maid brand of raisins in places all over the world, like Bangkok, Rio, and Cape Town.  Our family has been a member of the Sun Maid Raisin Cooperative since the 40s.  And I often take little boxes of raisins as gifts on my overseas travel.

But aside from seeing familiar brands, I enjoy visiting foreign supermarkets for unique and local food and gift items.  Recently, I have found some decent champagnes, Greek kydoni (candied quince), Spanish Iberico jamon, Buffalo grass vodka (Poland),and everyone’s favorite wine gummies.

My two favorite sections are the wine and snack sections.  Though I am often drawn to the store for basics like water, mints, or snacks, I always browse the store unless I am in a hurry.  What better way to learn some local culture than to see what locals buy?  It can get really strange in places like Botswana, Vina del Mar (Chile), Luang Prabang (Laos), and Anchorage, Alaska.

Durian on wood background,King of fruits

Take, for instance, a rather common item like potato chips.  Yes, we have the usual plain, barbecue, sour cream onion, lime and ranch flavors.  But can you imagine such off beat flavors as poutine (Canada), chili and lemon (Egypt), seaweed salt (Japan), Ruffles queso (Mexico), Simba tomato sauce (South Africa), Magic Masala (India), paprika (Germany), dill pickle (Russia), and haggis (Scotland), just kidding!

Fruit juice is another grocery store item that reveals much about a country.  Though orange juice is the most popular around the world, you might be surprised by what I have seen.  Here are some interesting fruit drinks:  mango lassi (India), apple cider (England), kompot (Russia), mata kucing (Malaysia), guarana (Brazil), Calpis (Japan), mirabelle (Poland and France), avocado (Indonesia), Hibiscus (Senegal), and champus (Colombia).  But having tried several, most are an acquired taste.

Of course, nothing beats the durian, aka “the king of fruit” for its unique flavor and smell.  My palate says it is a cross between rotten onions and stinky sweat socks.  Durian fans say it tastes like a ripe banana.  The smell is so powerful, durian is not allowed on public transportation in SE Asia.  But it can be purchased frozen, as well as in cookies, and cakes.  Fresh durian can be purchased in Seattle at Uwajimaya, or New York’s Chinatown.

My new favorite is kydoni (candied quince), which I discovered in Santorini last year.  It was served over Greek yogurt, as a complimentary dessert.  When I returned to Athens, I found it in a tiny little grocery store in Plaka.  Now, with each trip to Greece, I always bring back a jar of kydoni.  A similar product is candied melon rind, also served over Greek yogurt.

I plan to return to Istanbul in November for one of our favorite desserts, Turkish Delight.  Everyone makes it a bit differently, some with just fruit juice and gelatin, and some with nuts and nougat filling.  Three years ago, I brought back a kilo (2.2 pounds).  I have tried to buy a few versions from US based Greek delis, but it is not the same!

If you ever get a chance to try wine gummies, please do!  These gummies do not contain wine and are much less sweetened than regular gummies.  I call them gummies for adults.  The best place to buy them is Germany, Harrod’s in London, or KaDeWe Department Store in Berlin.

So, you see that I enjoy the grocery store, as much as the local watering hole or taverna.  And please do not forget my refrigerator magnets.  I must have several hundred now, and nowhere to display them!

Japantown California

Posted by golfkat on August 26, 2022
Posted in: Cultures, Entertainment, Food, Travel. Leave a comment

At one point, there were 43 different Japantowns in California alone. But, after World War II when the United States Government wrongly imprisoned its own Japanese American citizens in concentration camps, most Japantowns were lost. There are now just three. They are located in Los Angeles, San Jose and San Francisco.

I recommend coming to San Francisco’s Japantown for a sushi lunch during the springtime when the cherry blossoms are blooming. Make time to browse the shops afterward! If you want more Japanese vibes, head over to the Japanese Tea Garden. 

Japantown has also been known as J-town, Little Tokyo, and Nihonmachi.  There are roughly 1.4 million people of Japanese descent living in the US.

From 43 to three is quite dramatic.  What really happened?  Many Japanese Americans who were incarcerated during WW2 did not return to their communities, particularly on the west coast.  Places like Seattle, Sacramento, San Diego, and Portland had thriving Japantowns.  In fact, my Aunt and Uncle (and cousins) had a busy hardware/furniture in Sacramento’s Japantown.  And another Aunt and Uncle remained in Chicago, after the rest of my family returned to their farms in California.

From Wikipedia:  

Japantowns were created because of the widespread immigration of Japanese to America in the Meiji period (1868–1912). At that time, many Japanese were poor and sought economic opportunities in the United States. Japanese immigrants initially settled in Western parts of the US and Canada.  There were several Japantowns in Canada as well.  But again after the Internment of Japanese after Pearl Harbor, these communities were dispersed since Japanese Canadians were also sent to Relocation camps.

Interestingly, a Little Japantown has emerged in Toronto, Canada around Bay and Dundas Streets since the early 21st century.​

At one time, there were 43 different Japantowns in California, ranging from several square blocks of Little Tokyo in Los Angeles, to one in the small farming community of Marysville in Yuba County. Besides typical businesses, these communities usually had Japanese language schools for the immigrants’ children, Japanese language newspapers, Buddhist and Christian churches, and sometimes Japanese hospitals. After the World War II internment of the Japanese, most of those communities declined significantly or disappeared altogether.

Interestingly, Liberdade district in Sao Paulo, Brazil has the largest population (over 200,000) of Japanese outside of Japan, and the largest population of people of Japanese descent.  Brazil has a total of 1.6 million people of Japanese descent.

I fondly remember visiting my Aunt and Uncle in Gardena, which became a significant community of Japanese after WW2.  As a little kid, it seemed like every other home was owned by Japanese.  I recall many Japanese owned businesses, included markets, pastry shops, insurance, health care, as well as both Christian and Buddhist Churches.

Little Tokyo in Los Angeles has the largest population of Japanese Americans in North America.  Again, I fondly remember visiting back in the 60s, both for social and athletic events, as well as meals and shopping.  Many of the small business are gone, thought the food and grocery businesses still thrive, along with the Japanese American National Museum.

As I said, I think you will be pleasantly surprised, with the food choices, as well as some shopping.  The Japanese food markets are my favorite, and I can always find something!

Eat Like a Food Writer

Posted by golfkat on August 25, 2022
Posted in: Cultures, Food, Travel. Leave a comment

Most of us who are foodies know these things.  But Food Travelist has listed them, just in case you did not get the memo.  Who sent the memo?  The ghost of Tony Bourdain, or Julia Child?  Mr. Bizarre Foods, Andrew Zimmern?  Beat Bobby Flay?

Look for the lines   Yes, the longest line usually means the best food.  Or get there earlier tomorrow?

Ask waiters and cabbies   Just beware, they could be on the “payroll” of a restaurant.  I always talk to the hotel people, and I shall reveal a secret, which you may find rather sensitive.  I always ask a person of color for a local spot.

Go for lunch   Generally, it is cheaper than dinner.  And the portions are more manageable.  Lunch may also offer a “fixed price” menu as well.  The Michaelin starred places in Tokyo are known for their special lunches.

Visit a local market and pack a picnic    I love doing this, especially in a foreign country.  Even in a place like Russia, I was able to buy food on the Trans Siberian Railway platforms in various small towns in Russia.  Just don’t buy the cheap vodka!!!

Read reviews   Good advice, but also try to read between the lines.  Just because a place is called “touristy” does not mean the food is bad or too expensive.  Another piece of advice:  I subscribe to the local paper (online, of course) a few months before going.

Take a food tour or cooking class   I have enjoyed some fantastic food tours, in places like Mexico City, Hanoi (on the back of a moto), St. Petersburg (Russia), Rio, and Sydney.

Never underestimate street food   Some of my best meals have been discovered in food trucks, roadside stands, and “mom and pop” shops.  In remote areas, this might be your only choice!  Again, find the longest line and you will find the freshest food.

And I added one more:

The dreaded food courts   I have found some great food courts, in places like Honolulu, Chiang Mai (Thailand), Mallorca (Spain), Washington, DC, Mexico City, Penang (Malaysia), Singapore, Buenos Aires, and Munich.

One huge advantage I have as a solo wanderer, is that I can eat whenever and wherever I want.  Or if you are so fortunate to travel with Mr. Mike, he has already discovered the best places!!!

Best Food in the World

Posted by golfkat on August 15, 2022
Posted in: Cultures, Food, Travel. Leave a comment

I am asked, most often, by friends and relatives, about the best food countries I have visited.  MSN’s The Manual has listed their favorites, by continent.  I will share theirs, then add my favorites.

Europe

Italy and France always dominate most surveys and food writer’s choices.  I first developed a fondness for some French food back in the 70s.  I had a girlfriend who studied at the Sorbonne in France.  She knew her French food better than anyone I have ever known.  My two favorite dishes are escargot, and Duck l’orange.  Close behind are steak frites.  And the wine is good and affordable.

I have not been back to Italy for decades, perhaps because of my past, bad memories, and the most difficult time in my life.  I learned my Father died while I was in Zurich/Rome and could not get home in time for his funeral.  It was the saddest and loneliest period of my life.  I would welcome a cycling trip to Tuscany or Sicily.

But since I cycle now, I would probably give Italy another try.  Besides several visits to Paris, including the French Open this past May, I have enjoyed other regions such as Bordeaux, and Champagne.  Loire and Burgundy would be next on my list.

You probably wonder why I did not mention one of my new favorites, Greece.  The food everywhere in Greece is very good, but not great.  My favorites are sea bass, lamb, fried cheese, and olive oil.  My Greek “brothers” always make sure I get the best food, and bottomless glasses of house wine (very good), and mastika (moonshine).  Yamas!!!

However, the best dessert I have ever enjoyed was in Belgrade, Serbia at the famous Hotel Moskva.  The cake is the world famous Moskva Shnit.  The Shnit is a fruit cake (not like your grandmother’s Christmas fruitcake), made with the finest and top-secret homemade cream, and is served around the world.  The Hotel also has a special wine that is served with the cake in what I would call a perfect pairing!

South America

Argentina and Brazil are rated highest, and I would not dispute this, based on my experience.  But the only requirement is you must be a red meat eater.  The beef is outstanding through both of these countries, as well as other South American counties I have visited, including Chile, Peru, and Ecuador.  The beer is also very good in South America, thanks to the large German influence created by copper mining.  German immigrants came to mine copper and other metals, creating a strong German culture in many countries.

And despite lots of suggestions, avoid the cuy or guinea pig.  It is very greasy and gamey.  But the beef and red wine combination (mostly Malbecs) rates at the top in most South American countries, from big cities to tiny villages.  The meat emporiums in Rio and Buenos Aires were great experiences, and also good value (never go away hungry!).

Mr. Mike and I hit a famous meat emporium in Buenos Aires, after learning the tango.  Essentially, it is a food orgy of bottomless cuts of beef (our choice), and endless mottles of Malbec.  I have yet to see so many cuts of meat on one grill.

But if think of finding Chilean seabass here, you are sadly mistaken.  Lately, farm raised seabass is available.  But during our journey in Chile (from top to bottom), we were continually told it is endangered.  And that all the seabass exported to the US is illegal.  Local fisherman will catch and sell seabass illegally, just to provide for their families and pay for their boats.

Asia

I find it difficult to combine all of Asia in one culinary discussion, since Japan seems to be distinct from SE Asian food.  So, I will invoke editorial license, and make Japan a separate “country” just for its unique cuisine and style.

As you might expect, Thailand and Singapore top the list, displacing Vietnam at the top of most foodie charts.  Thailand and Vietnam are much more affordable places to visit.  While to food in Singapore is famous for its hawker stalls, the comparable stalls in Thailand and Vietnam are just as enjoyable, and much less expensive.  I would give an edge to Singapore for noodles only.

We have dined everywhere from fine dining (The Normandie at the famous Oriental Hotel) to the lunch counters at the grocery store.  Our most memorable meal was at a huge fish emporium in Bangkok.  We selected out fish and sides, before being seated at our table.  The chef comes out to discuss the preparation and style of cooking for our recently purchased “sea to table” selections.  We enjoyed some cocktails and wine before the food arrived.

SE Asia is a place where it is really difficult to get a bad meal.  Everything is fresh, due to a shortage of refrigeration.  Animals were slaughtered that morning, fish were caught that day, and veggies were harvested in the early morning.  What’s not to like, even in the hinterlands of the hill countries or roadside stalls.

That said, my favorite place to eat in all of SE Asia is on the island of Penang.  Fresh seafood is outstanding, plentiful, inexpensive, and expertly prepared.  The local desserts are as inventive as anywhere in the world.  And my friends, Jason and Chun, always take us to the most creative places.

Japan

My mother country has great food, whether sushi, Michelin starred restaurants, noodles, or inventive cuisine.  Japan has more Michelin star restaurants than any country in the world.  And most of them are open for lunch, when meals are infinitely more affordable.  Even the neighborhood 7-11 has sushi as well as hot food in vending machines, including teriyaki, tonkatsu, donburi, and ramen.  My only complaint is breakfast, since a typical Japanese breakfast is a bit too healthy for me.  I generally choose a noodle place for lunch, and sushi for dinner.  Another favorite of mine is shabu shabu.  BY now you know the big department store secret?  Just arrive in the late afternoon, and all remaining desserts are sold at half price or less!!!!

Africa

They do not mention Africa, so I will add Cape Town and Barry the V to my list.  Besides being a great friend to me and Mr. Mike, he changed our perception of Africa and the food scene in Cape Town.  Whether we did home barbecues, or dined at restaurants in greater Cape Twon, he opened out eyes to food in Africa.

But I must make quick mention of the safari food, since we went on several safaris.  Again, the food is heavily meat oriented, always fresh, and include much of the wild game that we observed during the day.  My favorite was the wild boar.

Favorite in the entire world

The article states Mexican food is most popular among millennials.  Would you believe 44% of us purchase Mexican food at retail outlets?  And fully 66% say Mexico has the best food in Middle America.  The foodie area includes not only Mexico, but the better part of the southwest (Texas, New Mexico, Arizona and California).

It is difficult, nearly impossible to choose my favorite meal or country.  If I were forced to choose, I would pick Chinese food.  Some great places to have Chinese food are Hong Kong, Vancouver, San Francisco, and Bangkok.

Making Friends on Vacation

Posted by golfkat on August 8, 2022
Posted in: Cultures, Food, Travel. Leave a comment

Lonely Planet:  

Just your usual Friday, sitting by the pool at Stanly Ranch in Napa, drinking a delicious Diet Coke on ice, tapping away on my laptop, transcribing an interview from a lounge chair, protected from the sun by a giant umbrella. 
“Nice spot to work,” I hear a young woman say to me from the pool. “I know, right?” I reply. Next thing you know, she and I are talking about our favorite places to travel, her Greek heritage, the Ionian vs. Aeolian Islands, how much we love food, her fiancé’s restaurant in Boston.We exchange names and numbers. She promises me to text photos from her dinner at SingleThread Farm that night (and she did).
It was so natural and easy, making a new friend (if only for a short time). I loved it so much – why hello, new person! Such lightness, such joy! I’m so grateful to my new friend for taking the chance that the weirdo working from the chaise was worth talking to.

Has this ever happened to you?  My favorite spot, in the “old” days, was the now totally useless and practically non-esitent internet room.  After all, that is where I met Barry the V (in Santiago, Chile), and Jason and Chun (on Langkawi island, Malaysia).

Now, post internet room, the most logical places to meet people are on the flight, dining in the cafe’ or restaurant, and drinking in the bar.  Though I do not hang out in bars anymore, I do tend to linger when I dine by myself.  On my last trip to Athens, Greece, I was invited to go on a cross country cycling trip!

And I told you about meeting Jessie on the plane from Frankfurt to Athens last year.  Do you remember?  We ended up at a total stranger’s apartment.  Our hosts grilled two sea bass for us, and served it with a huge green salad, fried potatoes and plantains.  We also brought a bottle of wine.  I met “Elvis” at the fresh market in Athens, Varvakios Market, where he was selling lamb.

But in this changing and suspicious world, I think people are a bit more reluctant to engage with strangers.  Yet, I met a nice young man from Philly who said he would take me to the Army Navy football game next fall.  Can you believe his name is “Pretty Tony”???

I tend to talk to strangers about travel.  For instance, I was trying to determine the best way to travel from Split to Dubrovnik, Croatia.  Some people said to rent a car and drive.  Others said to take the bus.  But the locals said to take the high-speed catamaran.  Which one do you think I took?  Thanks to my buddy, “H” for this great advice.

Never underestimate the value of a good waiter or waitress.  My waiter in Santorini doubles as a wine guide in the afternoon.  I got the best wine tour, and plenty of side excursions to historic and famous sites.  It may have been the best wine tour I have ever experienced.  Thank you, Kostas!!!

But my all time, best experience occurred on my first trip to Athens back in May of 2021.  I became friends with some people at a little Greek taverna, who eventually “adopted” me.  We became brothers, and my wine glass never became empty.  They gifted me with olive oil from their native village, wine form their private collection, dried figs, and bottomless glasses of mastika!  Here’s to George, Stavros, and Vasili, my Greek brothers.  Oh, and one sister, Karina.

Alas, I save my best story for last.  As some of you know, I was in a cycling mishap on my last day of cycling in Croatia this past May.  My friend Goran, on our ship, tended to my wounds, fixed my sore shoulder with ice and massage, and made sure I had an abundance of medicinal supplements!!  I will never forget his kindness!

Bottom line, I just consider my so fortunate to make friends all over the world!!!