Category Archive: travel

PDX: Ramen and Dumplings at Afuri

  Afuri opened in Portland because of their water supply. It’s their first US branch. When I checked out Portland, I knew this was the first stop during my nearly week-long vacation. They… Continue reading

Wine and Spirit Education Trust (WSET): What’s it like to be certified in Spirits?

  Several years ago, the film SOMM came out and it made a huge impression on me. While I never thought about being certified in wine, I couldn’t pass up the opportunity to… Continue reading

California Rum Festival in San Francisco on September 7

    Tickets are now on sale for the California Rum Festival in San Francisco on September 7. There are three tiers for tickets for the Grand Tasting with more than 40 brands… Continue reading

Santa Barbara: Brunch at Khao Kaeng by Empty Bowl Gourmet Noodle Bar

On my last day in Santa Barbara, we headed to the new Khao Kaeng by Empty Bowl Gourmet Noodle Bar. It’s on the main drag in Montecito but downstairs so you may not… Continue reading

Santa Barbara: Drinks at Lab Social

While in Santa Barbara, I checked out Lab Social, the cocktail bar inside of Caje Coffee. I had found it searching for new bars and it was so brand new, my Santa Barbara… Continue reading

Santa Barbara: Prime Rib at Tee-Off

  One night in Santa Barbara, we went to Tee-Off, this old school steakhouse and lounge. I imagine many TV writers have a place like Tee-Off in mind when they write those pivotal… Continue reading

Santa Barbara: Brunch at Bibi Ji

  I was lucky enough to be in Santa Barbara for Bibi Ji‘s inaugural brunch. The popular Indian restaurant just started brunch service last month and I got to try lamb curry chilaquiles… Continue reading

Santa Barbara: Shaker Mill & Cubaneo = A Winning Combination

  Over Memorial Day weekend, I headed up to Santa Barbara and it was a non-stop adventure. Here’s one for your playbook- get over to Shaker Mill for tropical drinks but the bonus… Continue reading

The Minty’s Adventures: DTLA including The Broad Museum, Angels Flight, Grand Central Market

  This year I decided to make a dent in my “things I want to do in Los Angeles” list. First up is Angels Flight which I checked out after a visit to… Continue reading

The Minty’s Spirits Week: Japanese Gin

For today’s Spirits Week post, I’m swinging around to Japanese gin. It’s been interesting watching Japanese gin gain popularity the last year and half here in the US. Japanese gin makers hope there’ll be… Continue reading