Nostalgic taste: Food is real star at this State Street restaurant
Joseph Shaul, Staff Writer
June 28, 2011
Theme bars are anathema to serious foodies. Like brilliant cut glass in a world of dull sapphires, these establishments vend kitsch and novelty in lieu of actual quality. Once you penetrate the brittle outer gloss of retro flair, one must come to terms with flaccid cuisine and overpriced, malmixed drinks. Occasional... Read more »
Upscale fare falls short at these 2 eateries
Joseph Shaul, Staff Writer
June 28, 2011
In the world of food, “Chain” generally equates to “Terrible.” Fast food is cheap, but the same wonder of centralized distribution that permits a $0.99 chalupa frequently produces limp vegetables, stale bread, and the Lovecraftian horror known as “cheese product”. Going out to eat at Taco... Read more »
Cafe Costa Rica is quality vs. quantity
Joseph Shaul, Staff Writer
March 30, 2011
When Thony “Mango Man” Clarke emigrated to America 13 years ago he brought with him the vibrant flavors of the Caribbean. His successful food cart paved the way for a proper restaurant, removing from his recipes constraints on price and preparation. However, lessons learned in a pushcart do not always... Read more »
Taste of the Southwest at Los Gemelos
Joseph Shaul, Staff Writer
March 9, 2011
One of the great unknown joys of the west coast is the taco van, a roving restaurant providing freshly prepared tamales, enchiladas, and more, all for what you might pay for a bag of Taco Bell. From the beaches of LA to the office blocks of Sacramento, all you need to do is listen for the honk of an... Read more »
Huge cuts a carnivore’s cornucopia
Joseph Shaul, Staff Writer
March 9, 2011
In a school offering champagne education at a beer price, it is no surprise that most students favor cost effective eateries. However, even the thriftiest student splurges occasionally, and the excellent Tornado Steakhouse provides an ideal location for such a blowout event. Passing through the entrance... Read more »
Takara Japanese Restaurant offers affordable taste of worldly dining
Sarah Blaskey, Managing Editor
February 9, 2011
Complete with a miniature waterfall, charming decoration and subtle lighting, Takara Japanese Restaurant on State Street makes moderately priced dining feel like a trip around the world. Between the atmosphere and their locally renowned sushi, hibachi, and a list of entrees, Takara is one of the best... Read more »
Local tea house offers a variety of unique flavors
Jennifer Abplanalp, Opinions Editor
January 26, 2011
If your knowledge of tea extends only as far as it comes served cold or hot, Dobrá Tea will offer you an education. The menu is hardly the artful chalkboards of the local coffee houses, rather a tome an inch thick with a green bound cover. With the menu comes a little silver bell. “Ring it when you... Read more »




