#i remember when i started out i though chicken ramen would be vegetarian and that pork rinds would be too

[itscoldinwonderland]

I am vegetarian, I've been vegetarian for 9 years. And this post was inspired by a water bottle I saw that was labeled plant based. Like ya I sure hope it does!

They should start doing the opposite. Foods that are supposed to be plant based should be labeled "contains animal products" when it's not. My water should always be vegan, my juice should always be vegan, my oatmilk should always be vegan, my fruits and veggies should ALWAYS BE VEGAN, and companies should have to disclaim if it's NOT!

I can't stand food products that say they're plant based when it's already obvious...

[lovemesomesurveys]

List three people you've had crushes on.: I’ll do celebrity crushes: Alexander Skarsgard, Joe Jonas, Johnny Knoxville. Have you ever been in love with someone that you watched from afar?: Not in love, but had major crushes on in high school. How old were you when you started your period?: 13.  How old were you when you had your first crush?: The first one I remember was in 3rd grade. How old were you when you were first head over heels in love?: Not until I was like 23.

Has loving someone ever made you miserable?: Yes. How bad are your worst cramps on a scale of 1-10?: I actually don’t get my menstrual cycle anymore due to health reasons, but back when I did I had horrible PMS/PMDD and my cramps were killer.  Have you ever thrown up from cramps?: No, but I felt nauseous and sick and pretty damn close. I used to have to take Dramamine because it got so bad. List three people you had a hard time forgiving.: Myself. There’s a lot I don’t forgive myself for right now. I forgive others a lot easier.  Is there someone you are currently struggling to forgive?: Like I said, myself. I’m hardest on myself.  What is the most physically painful thing you've ever experienced?: Pain from surgeries and chronic back pain. Do you have an embarrassing period story? If so, what is it?: No. Have you ever had bad cramps in class?: Yes. Have you ever thrown up in school? If so, what happened? Once. I was in 1st grade, I think. I just remember rushing out to the trash can. Have you ever left school because of cramps?: No. Did your school allow you to have pain medicine on you?: They didn’t know. Did your school have a nurse?: My elementary, middle, and high school did.  When was the last time you threw up?: Almost 2 years ago, but I came very, very close on a few occasions a couple weeks ago. Have you ever tried to starve yourself in order to lose weight?: No. Do you ever comfort eat?: I used to do that all the time. I was a major foodie a few years ago. My appetite and eating isn’t what it used to be anymore. Have you ever thrown your phone across the room in anger?: No. What was the name of your first crush?: Philip.  Who was your first celebrity crush?: Aaron Carter. How old were you when you lost your virginity?: I haven’t.  If applicable, what form of birth control do you use?: What is your sexual orientation?: Straight. Have you ever questioned your sexuality?: Nope. Are you happy with your gender?: Yes. What gender do you identify as?: Female. What gender were you born as?: Female. Do you identify as "religious"?: Yes. What spirituality are you?: Have you ever tried drugs?: Just weed. Have you ever gotten high off a prescription medication?: Yes. Not for the sake of getting high, but the pain medication I take and others I have taken in the past had that effect on me. Still do sometimes even though I’ve been taking this one for years. Have you ever been drunk?: Yes. Have you ever smoked pot?: Yes. Have you ever smoked a cigarette?: No. What's your favorite drug?: I don’t do any. What's your favorite alcoholic beverage?: None. I don’t drink anymore. How old are you?: 29. Do you drink regularly?: I don’t drink anymore. Are/were you abused?: No. Do you have a significant other?: Nope. If yes, are you happy in your current relationship?: If not, are you happy being single right now?: I’m just not happy in general. Do you want a significant other?: Part of me does, but I know I couldn’t handle that right now. Do you take drugs or drink to numb your pain? I take medication to help numb the pain.  Who is your current crush?: I don’t have one. Who is your current friend crush?: I don’t have a friend crush. Has a friend ever broken your heart?: No. Is your love life history tragic or magical?: Hahah definitely not magical. Not even close. Do you have regrets?: Many. :/ Do you prefer tampons or pads?: I don’t have a menstrual cycle anymore. Have you ever used a tampon?: No. What's your bra size?: 36B. Do you have a hard time finding bras in your size?: No. Can you still wear clothes from the children's section?: I could wear a shirt. Are you lonely?: :( Do you have allergies?: Yes.  Are you in control?: I haven’t felt in control in a long time. Do you have a relationship with God?: I do. It’s something I build upon everyday. What size pants do you wear?: 1. Do you wear girls, juniors, or women's clothes more?: Juniors. Do you HATE people who are controlling?: Well, yeah. How old were you when you started to have acne?: Like 13. Did your parents give you "the talk"?: My mom did. How old were you when your parents talked to you about puberty?: I don’t remember exactly. I want to say maybe 11 or 12. Do you like going to the doctor?: No. It’s something I have to do regularly and I hate it. Do you like going to the dentist?: Noooo. What's your favorite part of going to the dentist?: Absolutely nothing. Do you feel average?: I am very average. Do you feel insecure?: Always. Do you feel alone?: Yes. Do you feel exhausted?: Always. Do you feel depressed?: I am depressed. Do you feel anxious?: Yes. Are you haunted by your past?: Yes. Who's your best friend?: My mom. How often do you pray?: Not as often as I should. <<< Same. :/ Do you keep a journal or diary?: This is it. Do you relate to the characters in books?: Yeah. The books I read always have characters I relate to. Who's your favorite Disney princess?: Ariel.  Do you think you are attractive?: No. Are you happy with the way you look?: No. Especially not now. I have neglected myself in a lot of ways and haven’t taken good care of myself these past few years. Do you look more like your mom or your dad?: My mom. How many siblings do you have?: 2. What song describes your life?: Beautiful by Eminem has a lot of relatable lyrics. Do you cry a lot?: Yes. Are you sensitive?: Very. Do you take medication every day?: Yes. Do you take vitamins?: No, but I’m supposed to. Are you a meat-eater, or are you vegan or vegetarian?: I eat meat. I’m not a big meat eater, but I do eat it. Especially chicken. What's your favorite color?: Pastels.  Are you unique?: I don’t feel I am. Do you feel blessed?: I know I am in a lot of ways, and I need to acknowledge those things more but it’s so easy to focus on the negative/bad things and on what I don’t have. :/ Who is your favorite person?: Alexander Skarsgard. Has your favorite person ever hurt your feelings?: He could never. Do you write in cursive or print more?: Print. I only use cursive for my signature. Do you like to write?: I used to. Do you like to read?: Yes. What are your favorite types of books to read?: Fiction, YA/NA. Do you have neat handwriting?: No, my handwriting is shit. List three people you who you think are good role models.: Hmm. List three fashion trends you love.: I don’t keep up with any. Are you a trendsetter?: Ha, no. Do you like fashion?: I care about being comfortable and wearing what I like. Do you enjoy shopping?: Online shopping, yes. What stereotype do you fit the most?: I don’t know. Are you your own person?: Yeah. Are you a risk-taker?: Nope. Do you like fantasy better than reality?: Reality bites. Do you have "female problems"?: Are we back on the period stuff again?

What are you longing for?: Good health and a life where I’m actually living. Have you ever contemplated suicide?: Yes. Have you ever self-harmed?: Yes. How many people have you known who were suicidal?: A few. Do you get bullied constantly?: No. The only mean person to me is me. Are people jealous of you?: There is no reason to be. If you're a worshipper, how do you worship?: I worship God. How many tattoos do you have, and what are they of?: None. Do your tattoos have personal meaning to you?: If you don't have any tattoos, do you want one?: There’s one I’ve wanted for years, but I’m a big baby. Do you have your ears pierced?: Yes. Do you have any other piercings?: No. If not, do you want any other piercings?: Nah. What is your first and middle name, and do you like them?: Stephanie Anne. It's very boring. <<< My name is Stephanie, too! My middle name is also a simple one like that. What do you want to name your first daughter?: I don’t plan on ever having kids. What would you name a son?: Do you dream about your wedding day?: No. I don’t plan on ever getting married, either. What's your favorite food?: Chicken tenders, boneless garlic parm chicken wings, potatoes in various forms, eggs in various forms, pastas, ramen, and burritos. Do you have a secret you want to tell someone?: No. Have you ever had a friend turn on you?: Yes. List three friends who have turned on you.: Blah. List three people who have bullied you.: No one ever has. Do you have anyone you can trust?: Yes. What country do you live in?: USA. What's your favorite pain reliever?: I take prescription paid medication.  What do you do for cramps?: And we’re back to this. Do you wear make-up?: Very, very rarely now. Who has the cutest baby/babies you know?: A few of my cousins. Do you have a lot of people blocked on facebook?: No. What is your natural hair color?: Dark brown. Do you have a morning routine?: Medicine, coffee, Bible study.

[twocoursemeal-blog]

TCM Ramen Month v2.0 Retrospective

Second Ramen Month Retrospective, same as the first! We made it through another solid month of ramen two times a week! The highs were high, and goodness, the lows were low. Ramen Month v2.0 was full of surprises and disappointments.

If you’ve missed any of our Ramen Month v2.0 posts, you can catch up below:

Amateras Ramen (Back Bay) 4⭐ Shin Hakata Ramen (Back Bay) 2⭐ Ruckus (Chinatown) 2⭐ Uni Late Night (Back Bay) 1⭐ Little Big Diner (Newton Center) 4⭐ Oisa Ramen (Downtown) 5⭐ Shabu & Mein (Lechmere) 4⭐

You can also read Ramen Month v1.0′s Retrospective here!

Was Ramen Month v2.0 a success?

Angela: I think so… v2.0’s second half was a lot stronger than the first. We started off solid with Amateras, then there was a pretty sad lull in the middle… but Oisa and our Reader’s Choice Ramen night more than made up for that!

Matt: Well, it was successful in that we ate a lot of ramen. We discovered some great new spots! And discovered some real stinkers. Looking back, I think we fulfilled the vision of Ramen Month v2.0, which was to eat a lot of ramen from places we didn’t visit during Ramen Month v1.0.

Rating - winners vs losers?

Matt: I mean, winner is *clearly* Oisa. Those mushrooms. That broth. Those noodles. You need to go. I think that Amateras narrowly edges out Little Big Diner, which takes the spot over Shabu & Mein. Amateras just did such a good and faithful job in creating an exceptionally solid, no-frills, simple-yet-complex bowl of ramen, and gave me one of the most delightful toppings I’ve ever had (baby mustard greens).

Angela: To me, the clear winner was the one I was looking forward to most: Oisa Ramen. It was just as good as I’d hoped, and a little bit better on top of that! It was a really wonderful ramen experience. The Reader’s Choice event at Shabu & Mein was also a *lot* better than I’d anticipated. The clear loser was Uni Ramen -- the worst ramen I’ve ever had, and the most expensive! It was a serious disappointment.

Best egg?

Angela: Even though I didn’t like the ramen there, I gotta give a best egg shout-out to Ruckus. They had the most notable and bold egg marinade, and it paid off for them, in my opinion. I can’t think of another egg that tastes similar, and I thought it stood out well against the flavors in the rest of the bowl. On top of that, it was *very* well cooked. It certainly didn’t pull any punches.

Matt: To be honest, I wasn’t really *blown away* by any of the eggs this season. Almost all were overcooked for my taste, and I was disappointed to find that none had a really runny yolk. Since no egg really stands out to me, none wins this prize. So, congratulations Santouka! You still reign supreme.

Best noodles?

Matt: Gosh. This is tough. Oisa definitely gets a big shoutout for the inventive spin of putting tomato in their noodles, but I don’t know if I’d call them the *best* for me. Honestly, It’s a bit of a toss up. None of these particularly stood out to me, though they were almost all very good. I guess it’s more of a testament to Boston’s ramen scene that the quality and cook on the noodles is so good across the board. Shoutout as well to Amateras, because the joy of thinly shaved red onion tangled up in chewy ramen noodles is something I can never forget.

Angela: What I’ve found is that most Boston ramen shops have good noodles. The best during this Ramen Month was definitely Oisa, both in creativity and pure execution. Tomato noodles, perfectly cooked and springly. Really amazing!

Best broth?

Angela: This one’s hard, since I liked a lot of the broths for a lot of different reasons. I have to go with Amateras Ramen, which made the best traditional shoyu ramen broth I’ve ever had. It was beautiful in its cleanliness, and pure flavors. It was really a culinary experience to behold. It emphasized and personified all of my favorite things about shoyu broth -- the seafood elements of dashi stock, and the deep, but balanced salty and umami flavors.

Matt: What’s up with all these tough questions?? Can I say Angela’s shoyu from Amateras? I kinda wanna say Angela’s Shoyu from Amateras. No? Ok. Can I say Angela’s Hell’s Ramen from Shabu & Mein? Please? Fine. Of the ones I ate, it comes down to Little Big Diner’s Spicy Paitan and Amateras’ Tonkotsu. Both were excellent versions of their own style, and extremely delicious.

Best meat?

Matt: Shabu & Mein, easy. A stunning example of how high the ceiling is on excellent chashu, and a perfect example of why we’re so critical of other porks. Go to Shabu & Mein. Eat their pork. You will understand.

Angela: Shabu & Mein. Every time I think back on that meal, I am so appreciative that Matt and I forbid ourselves from voting in the Reader’s Choice poll. I would have voted against Shabu & Mein, and I would have been very wrong. The pork chashu was so incredibly tender, and flavorful (this was certainly helped along by the bold flavor of my Hell Ramen broth). It was fantastic.

Nicest space?

Angela: I think Shin Hakata Ramen has the best space! The anime theme was really cute, and the place was super spacious; i can’t imagine that there’s ever a serious wait (though this might be due to the fact that the Back Bay Santouka is only a short walk away). I really enjoyed looking at the decor, and it was a relaxed and comfortable space.

Matt: I’m not sure that these places necessarily qualify as “nice” but I really enjoyed the cozy feel of Amateras. Just felt very personal, and the mildly variegated seating helped relax from what could have felt like a small space. I think it’s the place I’m most itching to go back to.

Best variety?

Matt: Though we didn’t avail ourselves of the options, Amateras did have a large number of ramen to choose from when you consider there many different styles of spicy miso. Outside of that, Shabu & Mein likely wins it, with tonkotsu, miso, gluten free, Hell’s ramen, super ramen, etc.

Angela: Shabu & Mein had an amazing amount of customizable options, from the broth, to the type of noodles, to the toppings. I can’t speak for the quality of all the options, but they’re available, if you want them!

Do you feel like your ramen palate improved over the course of the month?

Angela: Well, this was “Only Shoyu” month for me (until the Reader’s Choice Dinner), and I’ve been an avid fan of ramen since I can remember, so probably not? Ramen Month v2.0 wasn’t the most exploratory period for me, to be honest.

Matt: My ability to pick out certain notes in broth has definitely improved, though I’d say my biggest improvement is in the ajitama. Maybe this ramen month just had overall better marination on them, but for whatever reason, I really hadn’t noticed the subtle but present flavor on many of the previous marinated egg whites.

Did you learn anything about yourself during Ramen Month?

Matt: I never knew I could get so hype about something as simple as baby mustard greens. Aside from that, I am just very picky about my egg yolk consistency, but I kinda already knew that.

Angela: About myself? Nah. Maybe I learned that I can’t get tired of Shoyu Ramen, even when I eat it multiple times a month.

Any unexpected surprises during Ramen Month?

Angela: To be honest, I was expecting Uni to be better. With that said, I was also expecting Shabu & Mein to be a lot worse, so what do I know?

Matt: I knew nothing about Amateras going in, and I’m glad I got to experience it as a surprise! The execution on their ramen was just absurd, and I am extremely impressed with the kitchen staff (and the service!)

What is your biggest regret from Ramen Month?

Matt: I kept trying bites and sips of Uni’s awful ramen after I knew I didn’t like it. Maybe I felt like I wasn’t seeing something? Maybe I was trying to come to terms with the fact that I spent $18 on that godawful food.

Angela: Paying $18 for garbage ramen at Uni 😒.

OK. Fine. What is your SECOND biggest regret?

Angela: That I wasn’t hungrier at Little Big Diner. They served a fantastic bowl of ramen, and I had to leave so much of it (though we took the leftovers to go -- Matt ate them). I wish I had gone with an empty stomach and no plans for the remainder of the day, because I seriously regret leaving so much of that ramen uneaten. That grilled chicken thigh…. 🤤.

Matt: Can I say Uni again? Ok, fine. No seriously, can I though? If I have to choose a second one, I do wish I’d had a chance to try some of Ruckus’ other food, or a different ramen broth, just to see how it meshed with my palate.

What do you think Boston’s ramen scene is lacking right now?

Matt: Considering last year, I was feeling hard-pressed to find a place that had vegetarian ramen, I’m glad to say that that particular gap is filled - thanks, Oisa! Outside of that, I still feel like with all of the dedicated ramen shops plus all of the restaurants that serve ramen as an item on the menu, there ought to be SOMEONE who’s making a seafood-based broth. Come on, guys. We live in a coastal city known for its seafood. Get your stuff together. (And when you do, please tell me. I want to eat it.)

Angela: I said last year at the Ramen Month v1.0 Retrospective that I thought the ramen market was a bit oversaturated. Well, plenty of new ramen places have opened and been successful since then, so I guess I was wrong. I’ll say that I think that the Tonkotsu Ramen market might be oversaturated -- I’d love to see some different styles be more popular in Boston (besides the chicken paitan that Totto Ramen and Little Big Diner do quite well!).

How did this compare to Ramen Month v1.0?

Angela: I think I enjoyed v2.0 more! Though the lows were lower (we gave our first 1⭐ review!), the highs were higher, too (Oisa got a 5!). I really enjoyed making Ramen Month v2.0 a focused study in Shoyu Ramen, when possible (besides at Shabu & Mein, but the Hell Ramen was far too tempting). It made it easier to compare the various restaurants, and I learned a bit more about what I was looking for in shoyu ramen, and ramen in general.

Matt: The highs were definitely higher! And the lows were definitely lower. It was interesting to try so many different ramen places, and I really like having an excuse to do it (we still had a few leftover we couldn’t make it to!). I think a little bit of the shine wore off after the winter of Shin Hakata/Ruckus/Uni, and right now, at least, I’m feeling ready for a change.

Any ideas for Ramen Month v3.0?

Matt: Like I said above, still a few places that we didn’t manage to get to! I think the Reader’s Choice was a really fun way of getting our fans involved, and we’re sure to do that again. Who knows? Maybe next time, Ramen Month will feature ramen from an entirely different city...

Angela: As long as new and interesting ramen shops keep coming to Boston, Ramen Month really arranges itself! We will definitely make Reader’s Choice an ongoing element, though -- that was super fun!

Closing thoughts?

Angela: Same time next year, friends! Here’s to excellent ramen coming to and staying in Boston!

Matt: Boston, you keep managing to put some really delicious ramen on the table. Don’t rest on your laurels - keep trying for greater and greater heights! (read: please, somebody, make a seafood based ramen already).

[shelleyseale]

Hit List: Shelley's Top 3 Picks in East Austin

Happy New Year to the Trading Places Village! To start off 2019 with my first post of the year, I thought I would introduce you all to my neighborhood (that is, when I'm not off vagabonding somewhere else in the world!). My hometown is Austin, Texas — and I live in the weird, quirky, artistic neighborhood of East Austin, just east of downtown. I love my neighborhood, which has really changed and grown a lot in the last 5 years. Sometimes Austin experiences too much and too rapid growth, and it's hard to keep up with it all. It's also sad sometimes seeing the old places close or get forced out. But despite all the changes, there are many places — both long-time, established traditions and exciting new things that have come in — that I love in my neighborhood. Here, then, I share my "Top 3" picks across various categories of places to eat, drink and be merry in East Austin: TOP 3 TACOS: Tamale House East, 1707 E. 6th

One of my all-time faves. I lived down the street from the original location further north; once I moved to the east side, they opened this east side location too, right down the street! Coincidence? I think not! Owned and run by the Valera family since 1958, they make mouth-watering tamales along with a great selection of breakfast and all-day tacos, mole, enchiladas plates and more. A fantastic, fun atmosphere with cool décor inside, and a chill little garden patio as well. They have live salsa from The Brew every weekend and lots of other events, including music and Frida Fridays. Check it out, you can’t go wrong! Full bar, open breakfast through dinner. Joe’s Bakery, 2305 E. 7th Great family-owned place that’s been there since 1962. INCREDIBLE tortillas and migas, cool old-school atmosphere, and a great front counter Mexican bakery selection. Their migas are the best in town, according to me and my friends Mando Rayo and Jarod Reese who wrote the book on Tacos of Texas (literally!) Only open for breakfast and lunch. Taco Flats, 2500 E. 6th This vintage Airstream food truck is right across the street from my condo complex. It’s behind La Holly bar (owned by the same folks), which makes for a fun place to combine for drinks with your tacos. They have a pretty interesting menu of unusual and gourmet tacos. Great outdoor space as well. TOP 3 BREAKFAST SPOTS: Counter Café, 1914 E. 6th This place is honestly the BOMB for breakfast. Personally I love their benedicts, but the Steak & Eggs and Quail & Eggs get pretty high reviews from customers. Their biscuits are also pretty damn good and very authentic Southern. You can’t go too wrong with lunch here either. Only open for breakfast and lunch (their burgers are great, and could crossover into that category below).

Photo courtesy of Launderette Launderette, 2115 Holly St. While Launderette doesn't serve breakfast every day — only weekend brunch — that brunch definitely rates as one of my top picks anywhere in Austin. If I didn’t have Launderette in this section, I would definitely put it in the ���upscale restaurant” section below, so consider this a dual entry. Comfort food in a cool setting, to-die-for cocktails, and a pretty good happy hour. Don’t miss it when in Austin. Juan in a Million, 2300 E. Cesar Chavez Another long-time, family-owned East side fave. The patriarch of the family, Juan himself, is usually there shaking customers’ hands and asking how things are. This is super hole-in-the-wall, but don’t let that put you off. There are usually lines to get in for weekend breakfast (they also serve lunch every day). Huge plates; in fact, they are well known and were featured on the Travel Channel for their “Don Juan” — if you can eat the whole thing, your picture goes up on the wall. I have a few friends whose mugs grace those walls.

TOP 3 BURGERS: Hi-Hat Public House, 2121 E. 6th This is one of my favorite casual, comfortable neighborhood spots. They always remember me there, and have a definite cast of regulars. It’s also one of the best burgers on the east side, and on Thursdays you can get a burger and a pint for $14. If you don’t come for the burger, you can check out Taco Tuesday (two tacos and a pint for $12), Wine Wednesday (half-price bottles), or their weekend brunch with live jazz. They also have live music many other nights of the week. Justine’s Brasserie, 4710 E. 5th This is one of my favorite places on the East Side, for way more than the burger. It would definitely go on my list for top upscale restaurants if it didn’t always get raves enough about its Royale with Cheese (named from Pulp Fiction) to make this category. Besides that fine burger, they have the most amazing French Country Bistro comfort food, a beautiful outdoor patio and lawn, and a full roster of parties and other events. They always throw the most happening soirees during any big Austin festival like SXSW.

Photo courtesy of Justine's Brasserie Arlo’s, 1700 E. 6th This food truck is where you want to go if you’re vegetarian/vegan and craving a totally satisfying, juicy, cheesy, drip down your chin burger. And non-vegetarians will love it just as much, I promise! Their Bac’N Cheez Burger is tha bomb; I don’t know how they do it, but it hits the exact right spot for any burger, vegan or not! Trust me on this. A side of sweet potato fries makes it perfection. The truck is parked at The Grackle bar, which is a mighty fine place to grab a drink and hang. TOP 3 BARBECUE JOINTS: Franklin, 900 E 11th

This is possibly the most famous name in Texas barbecue, visited by many a Travel Channel and Food Network show and written up in the New York Times. Aaron Franklin, truly is a master, and even has his own TV show. Jimmy Kimmel, Anthony Bourdain and President Obama have eaten here. This place is as old-school as it gets; hasn’t changed much in a decade. It really does live up to the hype, and the line can be hours long. It opens at 11 am every day (though people queue up long before that), and stays open til they sell out. La Barbecue, 2027 E. Cesar Chavez Located inside the Quickie Pickie (a great small market to shop as well), this gets my vote for fave Austin BBQ. It’s owned by spouses LeAnn Mueller (of the famed Mueller BBQ family) and Alison Clem, and there’s usually a line out the door here as well. Personally I love their pulled pork, and they also do these amazing sandwiches with their homemade jalapeno sausage topped with barbecue. You might go into a food coma afterward. Kerlin BBQ, 1700 E. Cesar Chavez This food truck gets consistently good reviews for its barbecue and sides (which are way above the ordinary), even though it’s relatively new. Their sampler platter is a favorite, and they also sell kolaches which are fantastic. It shares space with Vera Cruz tacos, which is a phenomenal place as well. TOP 3 ASIAN FOOD SPOTS: Dee Dee, 2500 E. 6th I can’t tell you how excited I was when this WONDERFUL Northern Thai Street Food truck moved from Cesar Chavez (already close) to right across the street from my complex! This is not only the best Thai food on the east side, it’s also hands-down one of the top 2 or 3 Thai food spots in all of Austin (If you want to know my other go-to restaurants, check out Sway and Titaya’s). This food truck is run by husband and wife team Justin & Lakana (she is from Northern Thailand). The name Dee Dee means “good good” in Thai — and yes, it is that good that you have to say so twice. Seriously, if you like Thai food, stop in here. They only have a few things on the menu, but wow, do they do those 3 things spot on. Their food can be pretty spicy (it’s authentic, after all!) so don’t be afraid to ask them to dial it down a notch or two if you want. Ramen Tatsu-ya, 1600 E. 6th Since the first of these restaurants opened in North Austin, it was immensely popular, always with looooong lines out the door and waits of up to an hour or two. So you can imagine how freaking excited East Austin was when we found out that it was coming into the defunct Qui restaurant space, left from disgraced celebrity Top Chef Paul Qui. It just opened in summer 2018, and if you like ramen, DO NOT MISS IT! They have a pretty fun story, too — the owners and co-chefs, Tatsu Aikawa and Takuya Matsumoto, were hip-hop DJs when they met. Their mission is to bring Japanese soul food to Austin.

Photo courtesy of Ramen Tatsu-ya Kemuri Tatsu-ya, 2713 E. 2nd Along with Thai food, ramen is by far my favorite Asian food. Fortunately, there are two of the best ramen spots in town within walking distance of my loft (see above). Kemuri is really fun and unique — it serves a kinda crazy combination of Texas and Japanese food, like brisket ramen. They also have things like authentic Karaage chicken, and a great menu of Chinmi “exotic and rareties” that is rated for its weird factor by rating each one from Not Funky (Kenny G) to You Nasty (James Brown). The décor is also a fantastically oddball mix of old Japanese signs and other relics with Texas kitsch (it used to be a barbecue place, and lots of those items remain). Great back garden/patio that usually projects films on a wall. Just a weird, fun place with really incredible food and cocktails. TOP 3 UPSCALE RESTAURANTS: Juniper, 2400 E. Cesar Chavez This has been open a couple of years now, in a newly restored mixed-use center that’s home to Blue Owl Brewing, SpraTX graffiti/art shop, and a host of art and design studios. It’s refined Italian, with a seasonal menu that varies according to the ingredients available from the local farms and purveyors that they source from. Worth a little splurge (higher priced, but not crazy expensive). Monger’s, 2401 E. Cesar Chavez This is one of my go-to places for either a nice dinner or when I’m craving seafood. One partner runs the kitchen while the other runs the small seafood market where you can buy amazingly fresh fish, shrimp and other items to cook, straight from the Gulf Coast. They have a fantastic raw bar, and lots of great shareable plates. If you love seafood, I highly recommend this place.

Photo courtesy of Monger's Suerte, 1800 E 6th Opened in 2018, this is a fancy Mexican restaurant that deserves recognition. The ambience and service are great in my experience, and the food is above average in a city chock-full of Tex-Mex food. It’s a great place to stop for Lucky Hour (as they call their happy hour) from 5-6 every day. TOP 3 CRAFT BREWPUBS: Hops & Grain, 507 Calles

Photo courtesy of Hops & Grain This was the first micro-brewery in East Austin, and it’s my favorite. Not only do they have great beers, a good inside area and outside patio, and food truck; they are also very community oriented, with lots of events from trivia nights and live music to beer and yoga days. Dog friendly, tours and tastings, and all around great people! Tours of the brewery are given on Friday at 5pm and Saturday at 2pm and 4pm. Tours are FREE, & last about 45 minutes. Lazarus Brewing, 1902 E. 6th This is one of the newest brewery additions to the thriving East Austin craft beer scene, and extremely popular. It’s housed in a beautiful building, with a super cozy atmosphere and very dog-friendly. They serve not only their beers but also housemade root beer and kombucha, and they serve tacos if you’re hungry. Blue Owl Brewing, 2400 E. Cesar Chavez This brewery stands out because they do sour mash brewing. I haven’t quite acquired the taste for that, so honestly I don’t frequent this place. But when I feel like something different, it’s great, and it is a pretty wonderful little spot. Honorable Mention: Zilker Brewing, 1701 E. 6th TOP 3 WATERING HOLES: La Holly, 2500 E. 6th This spot has a groovy neighborhood vibe, and the owner Simon Madera is a super friendly guy who’s often behind the bar. They specialize in spirits from Mexico: tequila, mezcal and the harder-to-find sotol, raicilla and bacanora popular south of the border. Nice beer garden patio out back, with the Taco Flats food truck.

Photo courtesy of La Holly Whisler’s, 1816 E. 6th This has hands-down been my very favorite cocktail bar spot in East Austin since the day it opened. And yes, I was there the day it opened (in fact, actually before hand, for their soft pre-opening). The hand-crafted cocktails, and the bar/service staff, are all way above par. But the building and setting itself is also way cool, built completely with all kinds of salvaged and reused materials. It’s pretty fun to just wander around and check it all out. Upstairs you’ll find Mezcalería Tobalá, a mezcal bar which is really serious about the spirit! The very excellent Thai Kun food truck is also parked here (Whisler’s doesn’t serve food). Kitty Cohen’s, 2211 Webberville Rd. I like this place so much I had my birthday party there. It’s a really fun 1960s Palm Springs, Dean Martin/Frank Sinatra kind of vibe. Its big draw is the great yard/patio, with a shallow pool that guests can sit along and dip their feet into — refreshing! Be sure to check out the bathrooms, even if you don’t have to go. TOP 3 LIVE MUSIC/DANCE SPOTS: White Horse, 500 Comal St. This is absolutely a must-go spot, not just on the East Side but for anyone visiting Austin. It’s a true Texas honkytonk — but total Austin style. Don’t think twangy country-western music; the nightly live music here is all about swing, rockabilly and blues. It’s a super hip yet casual place, with good strong drinks that are cheap by Austin standards. There are always a lot of great dancers, and they do lesson nights as well. A guaranteed fun night out!

Photo courtesy of The White Horse Ah Sing Den, 1100 E. 6th I’ve loved this place since it was East Side Showroom, which was started by a mother and daughter team. After years of that super cool steampunk saloon, the team decided to give the place a new look, vibe and name. Ah Sing Den is named after the Victorian London opium den that was frequented by the likes of Charles Dickens and Arthur Conan Doyle. It’s super swank, the décor is to die for, and they make some of the best cocktails in town. A full menu of Asian-inspired dishes won’t leave you hungry, and the calendar of live music and other events will entertain. Esquina Tango, 209 Pedernales St. This is a lively tango and salsa place, owned by an Argentine husband and wife team. They offer a host of dance and Spanish language classes, with live music, dance parties and festivals almost every weekend. Check out their calendar before heading over to see what’s on. TOP 3 VEGAN EATERIES:            Counter Culture, 2337 E. Cesar Chavez

Photo courtesy of Counter Culture Super innovative vegan fare, this place is the go-to fave not just in East Austin, but the city as a whole, for many veg-heads. It’s housed in a hard-to-miss bright blue building, and also serves beer and wine. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. I’ve seen local celebs here (Giancarlo Esposito and Matthew McConaughey), as well as kooky pets on the animal friendly patio, including a parrot perched on a customer’s shoulder and an iguana on a leash. The Vegan Nom, 2324 E. Cesar Chavez The home of the “Rock’n vegan tacos,” if you are veg and craving a taco, hit this food truck up. Right across the street from Counter Culture, at the super-cool Soma Vida complex (you might want to stop in there for yoga or a massage, or daily co-working passes if you need that). Mr. Natural, 1901 E. Cesar Chavez This place has been around forever; it is THE long-time, go-to, natural and vegan food place in Austin, with several locations including east. They’ve been around since 1988. They offer a “choose your own” deli area (focus on healthy Tex-Mex, but not limited to that), bakery, and market. They also have a lot of community events such as yoga and meditation, On the first Sunday of every month they feature an All Vegan Brunch Buffet. Read the full article

[celloluvr]

A L L OF T H E M

1. Who was the last person you held hands with?

A friend

2. Are you outgoing or shy?

both?

3. Who are you looking forward to seeing?

My fam

4. Are you easy to get along with?

Idk??

5. If you were drunk would the person you like take care of you?

I don’t even like anyone so no

6. What kind of people are you attracted to?

The bad boy RIP me

7. Do you think you’ll be in a relationship two months from now?

Ha no 

8. Who from the opposite gender is on your mind?

Nate cause he is currently exasperating

9. Does talking about sex make you uncomfortable?

Nah

10. Who was the last person you had a deep conversation with?

Maggie

11. What does the most recent text that you sent say?

I cannot handle you (@nate)

12. What are your 5 favorite songs right now?

Work this body - walk the moon

The way you look tonight - Frank Sinatra

Nobody but me - Michael Buble

Ordinary World - Green Day

Still Breathing - Green Day

13. Do you like it when people play with your hair?

Ye

14. Do you believe in luck and miracles?

Depends

15. What good thing happened this summer?

Going to my cabin

16. Would you kiss the last person you kissed again?

I’m not planning on it

17. Do you think there is life on other planets?

Duh

18. Do you still talk to your first crush?

HAHA no

19. Do you like bubble baths?

sure

20. Do you like your neighbors?

No they are loud and stupid

21. What are you bad habits?

My throat chakra is overactive

22. Where would you like to travel?

Italy, Spain, Japan

23. Do you have trust issues?

yes

24. Favorite part of your daily routine?

Seeing my friends

25. What part of your body are you most uncomfortable with?

My stomach and thighs

26. What do you do when you wake up?

Check my messages

27. Do you wish your skin was lighter or darker?

I’m okay with my skin color but like being a little more tan wouldn’t be bad

28. Who are you most comfortable around?

Mate and Naggie

29. Have any of your ex’s told you they regret breaking up?

Yup he’s still telling me it too

30. Do you ever want to get married?

yes

31. Is your hair long enough for a pony tail?

Yes

32. Which celebrities would you have a threesome with?

Andy Biersack and Brendon Urie

33. Spell your name with your chin.

erucas

34. Do you play sports? What sports?

Tennis and On a bowling league

35. Would you rather live without TV or music?

TV

36. Have you ever liked someone and never told them?

Of course

37. What do you say during awkward silences?

Literally anything I hate them

38. Describe your dream girl/guy?

Dark hair, tall, leather jacket, etc

39. What are your favorite stores to shop in?

Idk man like khols or something Idc

40. What do you want to do after high school?

Yo I’m old Im out of HS

41. Do you believe everyone deserves a second chance?

mmmmmmm depends

42. If your being extremely quiet what does it mean?

I’m probably pissed at u so

43. Do you smile at strangers?

I do the white people smile if we make eye contact

44. Trip to outer space or bottom of the ocean?

Outer space r u kidding me the bottom of the ocean is probably scary as fuck

45. What makes you get out of bed in the morning?

Class

46. What are you paranoid about?

That everyone secretly hates me also that my pad is leaking also that I’m pregnant when my period comes late even tho it’s impossible cause like no thx to sex

47. Have you ever been high?

Nope and I don’t plan on it

48. Have you ever been drunk?

Not even close

49. Have you done anything recently that you hope nobody finds out about?

Nope

50. What was the colour of the last hoodie you wore?

Red

51. Ever wished you were someone else?

I used to when I was younger

52. One thing you wish you could change about yourself?

There are a lot so 

53. Favourite makeup brand?

Idk I like my tarte pallet 

54. Favourite store?

Father Time Antiques, Lush, Candle stores

55. Favourite blog?

Idk man they’re all good

56. Favourite colour?

Purple

57. Favourite food?

Actual good Ramen

58. Last thing you ate?

Pizza

59. First thing you ate this morning?

French Fries

60. Ever won a competition? For what?

Tennis and in orchestra

61. Been suspended/expelled? For what?

Nope

62. Been arrested? For what?

Nope

63. Ever been in love?

I thought so at the time

64. Tell us the story of your first kiss?

So the guy and I went to see the life of Pi. We sat near the end of the aisle. After the movie we stood up to leave and he decided that would be a good time to kiss me. There were people lining up behind us to get out bc we were blocking the only exit on that level. On top of that, when he decided to kiss me, he decided to go in with tongue. I did not. He licked my lips. We also knocked glasses bc it was 2012 and he had the huge hipster glasses on. RIP me

65. Are you hungry right now?

Sorta

66. Do you like your tumblr friends more than your real friends?

My real friends r pretty cool

67. Facebook or Twitter?

FB I guess I hardly remember to check my twitter

68. Twitter or Tumblr?

Tumblr

69. Are you watching tv right now?

Ye

70. Names of your bestfriends?

Maggie and Nate

71. Craving something? What?

Asian food, as per usual

72. What colour are your towels?

So many colors

72. How many pillows do you sleep with?

One who tf can sleep with any more than that

73. Do you sleep with stuffed animals?

not at college but at home they’re still in my room

74. How many stuffed animals do you think you have?

So many

75. Favourite animal?

Jelly fish

76. What colour is your underwear?

Pink and gray stripes

77. Chocolate or Vanilla?

Chocolate

78. Favourite ice cream flavour?

Ben and Jerry’s Americone dream

79. What colour shirt are you wearing?

Black

80. What colour pants?

Gray

81. Favourite tv show?

Kitchen Nightmares

82. Favourite movie?

V for Vendetta or Pirates of the Caribbean

83. Mean Girls or Mean Girls 2?

Mean girls

84. Mean Girls or 21 Jump Street?

I haven’t seen 21 jump street

85. Favourite character from Mean Girls?

Janice and Damien 

86. Favourite character from Finding Nemo?

the angsty fish whose fin is fucked and Crush

87. First person you talked to today?

Nate

88. Last person you talked to today?

Nate and Maggie

89. Name a person you hate?

Not gonna name names but it starts with a B

90. Name a person you love?

My fam

91. Is there anyone you want to punch in the face right now?

Nate cause he’s exasperating cause he walked to maggie’s house instead of taking the bus like a fool even though it was so easy to take the bus but no he had to walk cause he’s a chicken also maggie’s Ex bf cause like ugh he sucks

92. In a fight with someone?

No

93. How many sweatpants do you have?

Like one pair but technically they’re joggers

94. How many sweaters/hoodies do you have?

Who knows man

95. Last movie you watched?

V for Vendetta

96. Favourite actress?

Emma Watson

97. Favourite actor?

Johnny Depp or Leo Dicap

98. Do you tan a lot?

Yeah

99. Have any pets?

I wish

100. How are you feeling?

Idk fine man

101. Do you type fast?

Yeah I do I could beat anyone in a typing contest

102. Do you regret anything from your past?

I mean I’ve made bad decisions but there’s no reason to dwell and regret bc what happened has happened and u can’t change it

103. Can you spell well?

Yes

104. Do you miss anyone from your past?

yes

105. Ever been to a bonfire party?

Yes

106. Ever broken someone’s heart?

Apparently but he broke mine first so idk how I broke his

107. Have you ever been on a horse?

Yes

108. What should you be doing?

Homework oops

109. Is something irritating you right now?

My friend refused to take the bus and walked to our friend’s house instead I stg

110. Have you ever liked someone so much it hurt?

Yes but they were fictional oops

111. Do you have trust issues?

Yup

112. Who was the last person you cried in front of?

Nate

113. What was your childhood nickname?]Erike

114. Have you ever been out of your province/state?

Yes

115. Do you play the Wii?

Occasionally 

116. Are you listening to music right now?

No

117. Do you like chicken noodle soup?

Yes

118. Do you like Chinese food?

Yes

119. Favourite book?

The Lovely Bones by Alice Sebold

120. Are you afraid of the dark?

If I’m outside and alone then a little

121. Are you mean?

Depends on who you are

122. Is cheating ever okay?

Only in Monopoly man

123. Can you keep white shoes clean?

I can try 

124. Do you believe in love at first sight?

MMMmmmmmmmmmm idk maybe if it happened to me I would

125. Do you believe in true love?

Yes

126. Are you currently bored?

No

127. What makes you happy?

A lot of things but mainly music and good food and my friends

128. Would you change your name?

Probably not

129. What your zodiac sign?

Cancer

130. Do you like subway?

It’s fine I guess

131. Your bestfriend of the opposite sex likes you, what do you do?

Date them if I like them back or literally nothing if I don’t like them back idk

132. Who’s the last person you had a deep conversation with?

Maggie 

133. Favourite lyrics right now?

All of them from Still breathing by green day

134. Can you count to one million?

I can but I don’t want to

135. Dumbest lie you ever told?

That I was okay with eating McDonalds even though I despise fast food

136. Do you sleep with your doors open or closed?

Closed

137. How tall are you?

Five Five

138. Curly or Straight hair?

I have straight but I want curly

139. Brunette or Blonde?

Brunette

140. Summer or Winter?

Summer

141. Night or Day?

Night

142. Favourite month?

July

143. Are you a vegetarian?

Nope I like meat too much

144. Dark, milk or white chocolate?

Dark all the way

145. Tea or Coffee?

Tea

146. Was today a good day?

It was pretty chill

147. Mars or Snickers?

Snickers

148. What’s your favourite quote?

Things can fall apart, or threaten to, for many reasons, and then there’s got to be a leap of faith. Ultimately, when you’re at the edge, you have to go forward or backward; if you go forward, you have to jump together. ~ Yo-Yo Ma

And also

“I used to think the worst thing in life was to end up all alone. It’s not. The worst thing in life is to end up with people who make you feel all alone.” - Robin Williams 

And also

“Life isn’t about how popular you are, what boy or girl you’re dating or who you know. Life is about always being true to who you are and what you believe in. Never let anyone convince you that their way is better than your way.” ― Andy Biersack

And also

“No one can make you inferior without your consent.” -Eleanor Roosevelt

149. Do you believe in ghosts?

Fuck yeah

150. Get the closest book next to you, open it to page 42, what’s the first line on that page?

“I’m still not clear on this. Why me? Why not the Police” - From one of Maggie’s random books on the floor