Posted
by John Gibbons
June 25, 2007 at 8:53 p.m.
The Newbies: An Award Ceremony
About a month ago, I didn't have a bed, and I still wore socks. Times have changed - for the better. I've a lot of fun times with a lot of fun people. I've seen things I didn't even know were around to be seen. And it's about time I give honor to all the (insert noun here) that have made my stay in Lawrence extraordinary. Please bare in mind, I've yet to rid the fog of war on all of Lawrence (Translation: I've yet to try go everywhere), but here's the best of what I've seen. Best Coffee: [Henry's on 8th street][1] It's my life blood, and without it I wouldn't of had the mental focus to see all the other wonders of Lawrence. Being a [froogle][2] (cheap) coffee connoisseur, I couldn't get enough of Henry's house coffee. It's a buck fifty for a bottomless cup of yummy with delicious (and free) chocolate and vanilla flavorings. You can bring your laptop and hang out until the bar opens at five. Best Breakfast: [ IHOP][3] To be honest, I made it out of bed in the A.M. only once or twice, but when I did, IHOP's egg sandwich always hit the spot. It comes with an egg made your way, hash browns, choice of meat, and an English muffin. Scrumptious. Best Burrito: [Chipotle][4] Burritos are near and dear to my heart. Thus, it receives its own category. Chipotle's burritos have been a source of envy for me. I've tried many a night to recreate that fking tank of a burrito, failing miserably. I'd also like to give a bonus award to Chipotle for their "Can Day," where you could exchange a single canned good for their Excalibur caliber burrito. Best Curry: [Zen Zero][5] Coconut milk, red curry, potatoes, rice, and a boat like spoon. Nuff said. (Note: I had astounding curry at the Thai House, but it wasn't the Thai House in Lawrence, so I abstained from qualifying it in this competition). Best Sampler: [Mad Greek, The Greek Sampler][6] I may never cross enough land to find myself in Greece, but damnit, I'll still huff it down to the Mad Greek. I wish I could remember the names of all the little yummies I tried, but I'll do my best to describe some of the food with Gamora like tempting adjectives. My favorites were the tenderest blend of lamb and beef served with grilled onions and warm, fluffy, pita bread. That was coupled with a crispy, flaky, melt in your mouth, croissant stuffed with spinach sauce. The Mad Greek is also where I tried Hummus for the first time. It's became a staple snack in my home.Best Dinner: [Free State Brewing Company][7] I love this place. You go there and ask for a table, when you hear the news it could take 30 minutes. Normally, I'd just go somewhere less crowded. However, at Free State you just roll up to the bar, grab some delicious home made beer, and go out on the patio and talk it up until your table is ready. With a beer or two in your belly, you can easily make dinner a bowl of their cheddar ale soup. But, if you're appetite is still at large, then I recommend the avocado wrap. Either way you go, there's no need to rush your meal at Free State. Take your time, have another beer, say hi to the people next to you, and you'll walk out of there a little more cheery.Best Ice Cream: Sylas & Maddy's Real words cannot describe it. My feeling for their ice cream can only be described by "zomg!!!11eleven." Personal Favorite: First scoop Cappuccino chip, second scoop English Toffee. Best Bar: [Henry's on 8th street][1] If you've read my other entries this shouldn't surprise you. Henry's is a place where you can go to drink what your want, whether you like beer, wine, or hard liquor, and meet amazing people. The owner, Dave, will shake your hand the second you walk in the door. He makes it feel more like your going to your friend's house than to a bar. Henry's has class, you don't have to be high class to enjoy it. If you've got five bucks, a couple of hours, and the willingness to have a conversation, then you can have a fun time every night of the week at Henry's. I've more friends at Henry's than anything other bar.Best Place to Sober Up (with yummy food): [Pita Pit][8] If the bars are closing and you need a place to grab something to help the sobering process, then head to the pita pit. My favorite source for sobriety is their gyro.Best Bar Special: Wednesdays 2 dollar Mojito, [Henry's on 8th street][1] I'm a sucker for mojitos, and when they're only 2 bucks, my face suddenly becomes too petite for my new found grin. Some may be thinking that the 1.50 anything special at the Jazzhaus, should reign supreme. I tried that special out, and I just wasn't a fan it. The cover, the long waits, the hot, sweaty air, and the deafening noise. It could just be, I went on an off night, but when I went, I didn't enjoy it.Best Exception to the Rule: Smoking at the [Hookah House][9] Mmmmmm, hookah! I love this flavored tobacco, and despite Lawrence's smoking law, you can still hook-it-up at the Hookah House. Ideally, you go there with a couple of friends and plenty to talk about because that hookah takes a while to smoke down. It's a great place to hang out with friends, meet new people, and be submerged in another culture. Personal favorite: Double Apple Hookah.Best Store For Your First Pair of Flip Flops: Payless Shoe Source I was hesitant to get flip flops and when my girlfriend finally convinced to get a pair we went to Kohl's. They were a little to big and way over priced. About two weeks later I went to Payless and found a cheaper, better fitting pair for half the price. If you need a good pair of flip flops and don't want to spend money them just for the sake of spending money, then head over to Playless on Iowa.Most unique instrument being played on the street: Bagpipes** I wasn't sure it was real until I round the corner of 10th and Mass. But sure enough, on Mass was a man playing the bag pipes. I've seen guitar, sax, and flute players in many big cities, but not until Lawrence did I see bagpipes.Congratulations to all!So we'll see what the next month has in store. I look forward to it. [1]: http://www.lawrence.com/places/henrys... [2]: http://www.googleguide.com/froogle.html [3]: http://www.lawrence.com/places/intern... [4]: http://www2.lawrence.com/places/chipo... [5]: http://www2.lawrence.com/places/zen_z... [6]: http://www.lawrence.com/places/mad_gr... [7]: http://www.lawrence.com/places/free_s... [8]: http://www.pitapitusa.com/ [9]: http://www.lawrence.com/places/hookah...
Comments
Lawrence.com does not necessarily agree with comments posted below - responsibility lies with the relevant user alone. Read our full policy.
thetomdotdot (anonymous) says…
Nothing wrong with Chipotle, but when you are ready to venture west (young man), Tortas Jaliscos has the best Mexican food in the world, they have real bottled Coke, and they are now serving beer. Fresh bread everyday. It ain't a burrito but a chorizza torta with green sauce will have you crying for mommy. Mines actually getting tired of the calls at lunchtime.
lazz (anonymous) says…
"Please bare in mind"
here's where old guy grouses that this was too painful to pass without comment. So ... comment.
OK, that said, good piece. Fun to see Larryville through fresh eyes.
Todd (anonymous) says…
I-slop... gross. In Lawrence for breakfast Wheatfields, FirstWatch, or Miltons. (It's pretty common knowledge to avoid Miltons if you have kids though)
thetomdotdot (anonymous) says…
Come on, guys. Stop picking on the guys grammar. He is kind enough to bare his mind while yet ridding the fog of war on all of Lawrence.
altheasus (Althea Schnacke) says…
DonQuipunch, its a blog, not the New York Times.
I disagree with most of your choices John, but it is an interesting perspective. Things do change a lot after you've been in Lawrence for a while. I like Henry's, but only right after the bar opens. Otherwise they tend to be way too hot and busy for me. I spent an entire summer sitting in the coffeehouse part (this was before I was 21), and can't do it anymore. Don't like their coffee, don't like the stinky kids.
feeble (anonymous) says…
Picking a nation franchise when a superior, local option (Milton's, Wheatfields, Tortas Jaliscos (heck, even Burrito King) is an instant hit to a reviewer's credibility.
Even tho I now live in KC, I still drive into town on the weekend for a late breakfast at Miltons.
Also, while I'll agree that Henry's is a good time, the reviewer seems a bit biased. There is a lot of competion in this town for best coffee, best bar and best bar special, giving all three to one establishment seems incredibly myopic.
I'm glad Mr. Gibbons has enjoyed his stay, but this review is, to this former Larryvillian, full of "fail".
bloozman (anonymous) says…
Be nice.
http://encarta.msn.com/encnet/Feature...
Joel (Joel Mathis) says…
I expect that after another month, once he's had time to discover more in town, the noob might make some different choices.
But heck: Chipotle IS good. Better'n Tortas? No. But it's good.
LittleMissFlea (anonymous) says…
Isn't the traditional spelling of DonQui j-a-c-k-a-s-s?
OtherJoel (anonymous) says…
Yeah, dude. You GOTTA do Milton's breakfast. While I do admit to having a soft spot for IHOP's stuffed french toast (cream cheese makes everything better), Milton's egg sandwich is one of my all-time faves, especially with a bottle of orange cream soda (sounds weird, but it works).
Cornwellius (anonymous) says…
Lift the fog of war then do this again. I think your choices will be different.
ladylaw (Terry Bush) says…
I haven't enjoyed breakfast out nearly as much since the Paradise Cafe closed - I do miss their cowboy eggs and vege quesidilla....yummmm. Anymore, we wait till noon to eat our breakfasts out. The Sunday brunch buffet at several downtown places should be tried (after $ is saved up for the experience - they're all pretty pricey, but yummy), e.g. at the Eldridge or Tellers. And Henry's may be a place for the very young - it's occupants have seemed decidely youthful around there any time I've been in! LOL.
It is good to see things through fresh eyes. Those who were born in Lawrence have a different view from those who came here 20, 10, 5 years ago etc. Thank God for different tastes; otherwise we'd all be standing in long lines to shop or eat at the same 5 stores/places!!!
scary_manilow (anonymous) says…
IHOP? Really? You obviously have not discovered the pleasures of breakfast at Kelly's Diner on Haskell. And as much as I like Chipotle, the idea that they have the best anything is laughable... almost as laughable as awarding points to your favorite places in Lawrence, then poisoning it by name-dropping national chains. Pita Pit? Get real.
Dazie (Aileen Dingus) says…
Hmm... once upon a time I pondered pitching an idea for a newbie blog to Phil. My laziness prevented me, but I'm kinda glad I didn't.
I guess I'll have to try Henry's, but I personally keep getting sucked back to Mirth, right across the street. Breakfast and coffee (I'm partial to the Corozal) with the best comfy couch in a restaurant I've seen in a long time. Dinners are good too.
Best burrito? chipotle? You've got to be joking. Take a hike a bit west and try Burrito King. No- it isn't what I grew to love when I lived where there was actually mexican food, but it's a damn sight better than McDurrito. Plus- I've never gotten food poisoning from Burrito King. Can't say as much about Chipotle.
Shelby (anonymous) says…
Mr. Gibbons: thanks for so blantantly and comprehensively baiting the pretentious and attention-starved masses of Lawrence.com (see: Scary_Manilow).
I didn't think it was very covert, but I guess I was wrong! This is fun to watch.
(note: I'm omitting those who had the maturity to show a hint or two of class)
Shelby (anonymous) says…
by the way: I'm no great fan of Chipotle, but I can't believe people are actually claiming the quality of food is any less palitable than Burrito King.....seriously........correct me if I'm wrong--please-- but I'm pretty sure they use spam and grade C chorizo in their burritos, grease drips from them as if from a hole in a water bucket, and, well, they taste like complete shit. McMexican actually has *fresh* ingredients. Maybe we're kind of splitting hairs here. I'm serious though, I'd like to hear some justifications.
thetomdotdot (anonymous) says…
Shelby:
"...the pretentious and attention-starved masses..."
Is that about me? I'm not really pretentious. I just act that way on dablogs.
John:
You know you have been properly welcomed to elldotcom when scary_manilow calls you an idiot in some way, shape, or some such.
altheasus (Althea Schnacke) says…
If I stopped eating from every place I've been sick from, I could only eat at home. I did learn my lesson with the Jimmy John's mayo: never after 10 p.m. After learning more about Chipotle, I don't have nearly as many issues with them as I do the entire McCorporation; I just don't like giant burritos.
I'm starting to like the Teller's brunch since it gives me a chance to load up on Cesar salad and ham. How's the Mad Greek brunch, anyone?
And funny note, one of the alternate spellings for Chipotle on Firefox "Chippendale".
Shelby (anonymous) says…
no tom. though you forgot an apostrophe in the word "guy's". how's *that* for snobby?
feeble (anonymous) says…
Personally, I don't think any of the Mexican or BBQ in Lawrence is anything to write home about. If you really want to be a snob about it, just run over to Kansas City and get something really authentic.
=================================================
Eh, I'll take Vermont Street over a Zarda's or Oklahoma Joe's. That said, there were some mighty tasty offerings at the Lenexa BBQ fest last weekend.
OnShakedown (Chris Tackett) says…
for the record, Chipotle is no longer associated with McDonalds. So long, McGuilt!
Dazie (Aileen Dingus) says…
Damn I hate posting at work. That should have read "...but I'm kinda glad I didn't because I would take all the responses too personally."
Anyway- no longer associated with McD? hmmm... maybe worth another try, but really, the state of Mexican food the way I like it is saaad here. :( The closest I can find to honest-to-Dios Sonoran Mex is Cielito Lindo.
Shelby (anonymous) says…
I liked Cielito Lindo the one time I went there....got the chicken breast with chorizo and cheese on top....weird, but awesome.
There are a slew of good ones in KC...Guadalajara Cafe at 103rd & State Line is the one that immediately comes to mind, but SW Boulevard (obviously) has some great authentic ones too, like La Fonda.
That said, I can totally appreciate some decent Americanized mexican places...the one I currently dig is Habanero's in Lee's Summit.
*All* of this said....I eat a lot.
Joel (Joel Mathis) says…
"chicken breast with chorizo and cheese on top"
The "lite" version comes wrapped in bacon, breaded, then deep-fried in lard.
thetomdotdot (anonymous) says…
Shelby:
Well, I knew I missed it. It was a coded plea for attention. Thanks for being there for me.
Shelby (anonymous) says…
and I fucking fell for it.
thetomdotdot (anonymous) says…
Don't feel bad. You withheld mention of my misspelling of chorizo. I thrive on a balance of attention and kindness.
I love you.
gomordecai (Ryan Stephens) says…
After living in Lawrence for a number of years one tends to become complacent as to all of the wonderful places/things to do. After living there for a number of years and moving away, I have found that you really learn where your favorite destination spots are by your desire to visit them upon every pilgrimage back to the city. Every time that I make it back I will hit a number of spots (if time permits).
1. Freestate, (food and beer) clearly.
2. RedLion, Replay, and any place with excellent Lawrence bands performing
3. La Prima Tasca
4. Dollar movie and or dollar beer night at Liberty Hall (do they still have that, I think it used to be on tuesday or wednesday?)
5. Miltons is an excellent breakfast, but their muffins are probably the best thing they serve
6. On just a personal enjoyment side, must always 1. walk the length of mass st to see what has changed since I left. 2. At least take a drive through campus, but walking it is ideal
Welcome to Lawrence....wish I was still there
livingkate (anonymous) says…
The Eldridge for breakfast? If you like eating cold, soggy eggs and being totally ignored by the staff, then go for it.
i second gomordecai. Before I come back to L-town I always make a mental list of locales I will grace:
1.Replay, always the first on my list. Day, night, or the duration of my stay.
2. For coffee, Ive got to go with La Prima Tazza. I was a Henry's girl for a few years, but as you can see by this blog, that place can get weird and incestuous after a while.
3. Clinton Lake. For some reason, even though I now live 2 miles from the ocean, I often miss that little mudpuddle.
4. Milton's. Fried Egg Sandwich, Mediterranean Omlete. BaJeesus!
5. Evening walk across the bridge to the Gaslight for some outdoor bluegrass. Theres nothing quite like it.
6. Stroll up and down the student ghetto streets, just to see my old stomping grounds, and imagine what the new tenants lives are like in the places I've lived.
7. Naismith Valley Park. That place is a miracle, hidden behind some burbs off 23rd Street.
My heart hurts just thinking about it. Miss Larryville so much.... which is why I'm getting married at Liberty in October.
wbabbit (Will Babbit) says…
Wow...you guys are some opinionated bastards...I wish I had a blog so I could post the best burger as McDonalds and Best Ice Cream as Dairy Queen just to take some of the heat off...
John, I think your point of view is very refreshing, and I hope the people that took the time to make thoughtful suggestions of places to try out in Lawrence give you some variety to try out.
Ladylaw: You should try out Sunday Brunch at Macelli's if you have a chance, it's the only day they're open and it is absolutely worth it (though just as expensive as the others). Oddly enough, a cheaper yet still pretty damn good brunch buffet is at JB Stouts, and it's honestly good if you don't mind the horrible atmosphere.
godjilla (Jill Ensley) says…
I had my opinion all typed out and ready to go. But really, who the hell cares.
godjilla (Jill Ensley) says…
What do you expect when my job is done for me.
*points up*
LuckyNun (Tanya Spacek) says…
Burrito King has started offering black beans in their burritos. Get that cilantro-lime rice figured out, and I'd never go to Chipotle again. Having grown up in a Mexican neighborhood (okay, barrio) and partially raised by Mexican aunties and cousins, I have to say Burrito King tastes just like what I ate as a kid, so it's as authentic as it gets (at a restaurant) for me. If you want any more authentic, you have to get your own abuelita to make tamales and goat tacos for you.
Java Break and Henry's trade the smelly people back and forth, so I've adapted my habits accordingly. I try to be wherever the smelly people aren't. Although Henry's DOES offer better regular coffee and more things with which to foof it up, I think JB has better specialty drinks.
For curry, you might try Indo and The Orient when you're downtown. Out west, Thai Siam (at Sixth and Kasold, in the old Subway space) has the best curry.
I would nix the First Watch idea...it's crowded and the food is not worth the money you shell out. Amy's Coffeehouse has wonderful biscuits & gravy and breakfast burritos and it's at a decent price. Java Break offers good biscuits & gravy and breakfast paninis for a quick and dirty breakfast (not implying anything about the cleanliness of JB, but it doubles well as takeout). I don't think there's anything wrong with eating at IHOP. Sometimes you just want a huge stack of pancakes with four choices of syrup, and the people-watching opportunites are worth the drive across town.
godjilla (Jill Ensley) says…
Dammit. As self-appointed Coffee Snob, the order GOES:
1. Milton's (because Thanksgiving Coffee is good).
2. Z's, either.
3. Dunkin Donuts (hell yes it's number 3, eat me, AND they have Fair Trade)
4. Maybe, just maybe, The Pig. On a good day.
5. "La Primatentious." on a Tuesday.
And I don't have the heart to qualify the others since Java Break is probably worse than even Starbucks (tell me when they stop buying their beans from the same place they buy it for prisons and then proceeding to roast the living shit out of it). Henry's has putrid PT's, same with Aimee's(no coffee shop should have carpet) and Cafe Bella. The one time I went into the Classic Gourmet I SWEAR they forgot to put coffee in my drink. (Yay for $4 steamed milk!) J&S, or whatever (on 6th) was mediocre. Dunn's burns like the acid that Roastarie churns out. And I haven't been in Signs of Life because I'm afraid I'll burn up when I cross the threshold.
There, shallow nyah-nyahs done for the day.
Wow. I'm an addict.