* Neighbors.

Not trying to be Rex Reed or nothing, but last night Jeff Eats saw the new film -Neighbors-and I gotta tell you-that it was one of the funniest pictures that I’ve seen in years.

The best way to describe -Neighbors…the 1978 classic Animal House- updated to 2014.

If you have a decent sense of humor, I dare you to tell Jeff Eats that you didn’t laugh your-ass off watching this film.

Since Jeff Eats is after-all a food blog at heart–the large popcorn and box of Milk Duds I had were delicious-and the counter folks were as pleasant as could me. Price wise-captive audience prices.

Go see Neighbors!

* Palisades Park.

For you “now” Floridians who maybe traveling or visiting- this Palisades Park-thing could be just what the Rock N Roll Doctor ordered:

State Fair Meadowlands welcomes back the legendary radio personality and current SiriusXM radio host as he brings along Neil Sedaka, Chubby Checker and other pop icons for a reunion concert on June 21; fans can come early and attend a State Fair car show with vintage autos

State Fair Meadowlands today announced the return of legendary radio personality Bruce Morrow – known to his legion of fans as “Cousin Brucie” – as he hosts “Cousin Brucie’s Palisades Park Reunion II” at State Fair Meadowlands on June 21 at 7 pm. The evening will include performances broadcast live on SiriusXM’s ‘60s on 6 channel, from artists who entertained audiences at Palisades Amusement Park in the 1960s, including international superstar Neil Sedaka, “The King of The Twist” Chubby Checker, Larry Chance and The Earls, The 1910 Fruitgum Company, The Rip Chords and The Del Satins featuring Stan Zizka.

Concert-goers can come to the fair early in the day, from 2 pm, and enjoy the 50s Forever Car Show, featuring vintage autos and trucks from the ‘40s, ‘50s and ‘60s, as well as over 70 rides, entertainment and 50+ food vendors.

“The utter joy that Cousin Brucie’s Palisades Park Reunion brings to fans and fairgoers promises to build on the smashing success of last year’s show, igniting feelings of nostalgia and pure delight as we remember and pay tribute to the iconic artists who helped define an entire era of rock ‘n’ roll,” said Al Dorso, president of State Fair Meadowlands. “We are truly delighted to be hosting Cousin Brucie once again. Combined with the 50s Forever Car Show, June 21st promises to be a day full of nostalgia for music lovers and fairgoers alike.”

The Cousin Brucie event and the 50s Forever Car Show are both FREE with entry ticket to the fair, which is $10 for those 13 and older, and $8 for children 12 and younger. Children under 34” are admitted free.

“I can feel the roller coaster…I can smell the cotton candy….and I can hear the people. This is where we grew up – Palisades Park,” said Cousin Brucie. “It lives!!!!”

Wearing his famous leopard-skin suit, Brucie prowled the big stage at Palisades Park, which operated from 1898 to 1971 on the edge of Bergen County, overlooking Manhattan. At Palisades Park, thousands of Brucie fans enjoyed performances by the biggest names in rock ‘n’ roll history. This year’s Palisades Park Reunion will celebrate the historic amusement park and the shows that Brucie hosted there while fairgoers enjoy the sounds of the ‘60s, acres full of exciting rides, and the vintage cruise-in car show to really get the vibes going.

Cousin Brucie hosts Cruisin’ With Cousin Brucie on Wednesdays at 5:00 pm ET and Cousin Brucie’s Saturday Rock and Roll Party on Saturdays at 8:00 pm ET on ’60s on 6, via satellite on channel 6, and through the SiriusXM Internet Radio App on smartphones and other connected devices, as well as online at siriusxm.com.

State Fair Meadowlands is the largest fair in the New York metro area, with over 150 rides and attractions on over 35 acres of fairgrounds. The fair will feature more than 50 food vendors, including favorite “fair fare” such as delicious Jersey pizza, Greek gyros, burritos, corn dogs, curly fries, corn on the cob, turkey legs, funnel cakes, candied apples, deep-fried Oreos, ice cream and more. Entertainment is free with entry ticket; fairgoers can enjoy all-day access to live music concerts, the Racing Pigs, the Big Cat show, the Shark Bait comedic juggling show, hypnotist Steve Bayner and, for the first time this year, an Open-Air Circus featuring a real live human arrow and high-wire acts. Fairgoers also won’t want to miss taking a ride in the Batcopter, the original helicopter from the 1960s TV series, as well as the Skyride, an all-time family favorite.

Fair hours are Monday through Thursday, 6 pm to midnight; Fridays 6 pm to 1 am; Saturdays 2 pm to 1 am; Sundays 2 pm to midnight. On opening Dollar Night, June 20, the fair is open 5 pm to 1 am. On Thursday, July 3, the fair is open 6 pm to 1 am; on Friday, July 4 from 2 pm to 1 am. Parking is free Monday through Wednesday, and $5 Thursdays through Sundays. Opening night, parking is just $2. The fair will be offering free shuttle buses from/to Secaucus Junction. Visit www.njfair.com for more information and a list of Bargain Days.

* Jazziz, 201 Plaza Real, Boca Raton, Florida 33432, (561) 300-0730.

Jazziz in Boca Raton…upscale restaurant-music venue.

Just so you know, Jeff Eats has yet to eat “there” -but has seen a number of terrific local/national bands and music artists on its stage.

A quick heads up, sometimes there are ticketed events/cover charges and other times complimentary music…so be sure to check the joint’s website to see what’s doing on any particular day. I’ll give you Jazziz website at the bottom of this story.

I got upcoming plans to try the-food…

Just a quick observation, as far as Jeff Eats is concerned–the name Jazziz is a bit misleading (maybe “confusing” is a better term). When I hear the name Jazziz, I think JAZZ, like -all the music played there is jazz. But au contraire–Jazziz- entertainment scheduled is as eclectic as it gets. To the point, I seriously doubt that anyone would consider the Jefferson Starship or Sandra Bernhard to be jazz-performers. Same goes for-recent appearances by Grammy winner Christopher Cross or local rockers- Solid Brass with its Chicago like-horn section! Like I said 3 seconds ago, haven’t-yet eaten at Jazziz, but I gotta tell you, this joint is great looking and has a sound/stage setup that makes for some real-nice partying.

In reviewing Jeff Eats’ PR mail, I spotted two really cool acts that are booked at Jazziz…Jefferson Starship (July 28-July 29 2014) and Sandra Bernhard (8/12-8/13 2014) and trust me, you definitely want to see both acts. For what it’s worth, Jeff Eats has seen the latest Starship lineup-and it puts on a dynamite show…I’ve also seen Bernhard’s show and the lady is an absolute trip.

You can check www.jazziz.com for restaurant-menu/entertainment-schedule-tickets.

There is an old Taiwanese saying that “The Early Bird Catches The First Worm”– with that in mind, if you want to see this show(s)- you can catch tickets before most people even know that Bernhard and Airplane (oops-I meant Starship) are coming.

As we get closer to these shows, Jeff Eats will have more to say about Jazziz- lineup.

***** Toasted, 1945 Aloma Avenue, Winter Park, Florida 32792, (407) 960-3922.

Jeff Eats knows that you guys know…that I’ve been “to” a ton of restaurants down here in Sunny Florida. Remember that movie “Ground Hog Day”?–when you have eaten in as many Chinese, sub and pizza joints as I have– they literally all run together…for sure, every so often “one” looks different and there is a “stand-out” –but by and large, Ground Hog Day!

Anyway…

Jeff Eats recently had lunch at Toasted in Winter Park. This hole in the wall- order at/pick up at the counter–describes itself as…

“Toasted restaurant specializes in crafted grilled cheese sandwiches, burgers and natural cut fries, served in an effortless, fast casual dining environment. Toasted is the first to bring the best grilled sandwiches to Orlando and the Central Florida area. We also offer a full Vegetarian and Vegan menu, packed with specialty Vegan grilled cheese and burgers featuring our house made vegan cheese.”–and I gotta tell you, that I absolutely loved its food/décor/service…trust me, I won’t forget this joint!

You can check menu/prices/photos/other info at www.igettaosted.com.

In a nutshell, Toasted makes all kinds of grilled cheese sandwiches, burgers, with a handful of salads/soups/sides.

Jeff Eats’ lunch-outing had me doing- “The 101” which is cheddar and tomato for 5 bucks, “The Classic” which is a beef burger/cheddar/lettuce tomato for 5 bucks, fries for 2 bucks and mac & cheese for 2 1/2 bucks…and like I said 6 seconds ago, I absolutely loved the food. For what it’s worth, every item was off the chart.

Toasted is a WINNER!

Toasted is open 7 days a week 11am-9:30pm.

***** Oscar’s, Waldorf Astoria Orlando, 14200 Bonnet Creek Resort Lane, Orlando, Florida 32821, (407) 597-5500.

Oscar’s is a hotel buffet-breakfast joint located in the Waldorf Astoria Orlando.

Jeff Eats ate two breakfasts there and I gotta tell you that food/service wise Oscar’s is a top-notch operation. Fabulous selection of food, outstanding service. To be perfectly honest with you, I can’t recall a better hotel breakfast buffet.

Just so we are straight, my two buffets were part of my hotel room package…if separately purchased the Waldorf Astoria Orlando gets 32 bucks plus tax.

The bet here is that almost everyone that I saw eating had a package deal…

You don’t have to be a math-major to know that 32 plus tax-plus tip ain’t exactly a cheap breakfast number.

As I said 3 seconds ago, my buffets were in the hotel deal- Although the buffets were terrific, I seriously doubt (actually I know) that Jeff Eats would not have eaten “them” if the hotel hadn’t thrown them into the mix. I don’t know about you, but close to 40 bucks a head -isn’t exactly Jeff Eats’ game!

Check www.worlddorfastoriaorlando.com for hotel/Oscar’s info.

La Luce, Hilton Orlando Bonnet Creek, 14100 Bonnet Creek Resort Lane, Orlando, Florida, 32821, (407) 597-3601.

Last night Jeff Eats (party of 6) ate at La Luce -an Italian restaurant located in the Hilton Orlando Bonnet Creek Hotel.

Just so you know, La Luce was “selected” in that Jeff Eats had a $300 Hilton -food/beverage credit that had to be used.

Real simple-

La Luce is your “typical” hotel- Italian restaurant- overpriced with mediocre food. If this joint wasn’t tied to/housed in -a hotel and had to fend for itself-my money says it wouldn’t last very long. Trust Jeff Eats on this one…hotel location, expense accounts, hotel “deal” promotions are what keeps La Luce in business.

Last night’s dinner- plain pizza, lasagna, ribeye steak, meatballs, chicken fra diavolo, lamb shank…just passable.

Printed below is La Luce’s “hype” on Hilton’s website www3.hilton.com.

All Jeff Eats can say- Hilton has some great copywriters..,
*****
LA LUCE®

La Luce®, created by renowned Napa Valley chef and restaurateur Donna Scala, is the signature restaurant of Hilton Orlando Bonnet Creek. Italian traditions meet Californian innovation in the cuisine at La Luce®, to create a perfectly balanced menu of thin crust pizzas, family-style pastas and meat and seafood specialties. The menu changes seasonally, showcasing the finest local ingredients in the classic Italian way – hearty yet with a simple elegance.

The cuisine, inspired by the types of dishes that have been handed down by Italian families for generations, is recreated with a modern twist and presented with style, to create an unforgettable dining experience. Select from the extensive Trattoria-style wine list or choose a Mediterranean-influenced cocktail as the perfect accompaniment to your meal.

Whether it’s a romantic dinner for two, a family celebration, or dining with friends, sit back and savor your meal overlooking the sparkling lazy river pool. Every month, this Italian restaurant in Orlando displays the work of local artists, creating a unique, inspiring atmosphere to enjoy fine family-inspired Italian cuisine.

La Luce® also offers a private dining room – perfect for intimate get-togethers, family reunions and special occasions. Please call 407-597-3600 to make a reservation.

Book a table

ORIGINAL ART

The perfect complement to a sumptuous feast is inspiring art. Each month, La Luce® displays the work of several local artists in celebration of the sensory, treating guests to art that is as fresh and contemporary as the cuisine. If we eat with our eyes first, consider the original art your first course. Dine with us often to see what’s new.

AWARDS & RECOGNITION

Recognized for excellence in cuisine and wine, this Orlando, Florida Restaurant has achieved awards and recognition. Recent accolades include:

Wine Spectator – Award of Excellence – 2012
Orlando Sentinel FOODIE Awards – Critics’ Choice – Best Hotel Restaurant – 2011

***** Walt DisneyWorld-Magic Kingdom.

Spent the day-at Disney’s Magic Kingdom.

Jeff Eats’ first visit was in February 1974. Until today, the last was in 1998.

Give or take a tweak here and there-same rides and shows as it had back in 1974. Jeff Eats is still scared crap-less of that Space Mountain ride.

Financially, Magic Kingdom is killing it!

No question that Walt Disney World “hits” visitors real hard with admission charges.

Just wanted to tell you guys, that I absolutely loved today’s visit. The reason, literally no one- was using a cellphone, iPad, iPhone, computer…people were actually talking to one another… Just like it use to be- before all of this cell phone/internet “business” got- people texting-emailing instead of TALKING.

Jeff Eats loved the rides and shows. Other than a “here and there” no interactivity required to watch or ride. All you had to do was show up. Moms and dads- grandparents- friends all having a great time being with each other. What I saw today, is what I think Walt Disney envisioned years ago- that being, people enjoying people.

One other shout -out to the Disney folks…

Like I said before, you caught “them” but- good coming in, but your food prices were very reasonable once inside- and I will tell you that your burgers, french fries, chicken nuggets, soft serve ice cream, roasted candy nuts, turkey legs were all delicious.

Sea Dog Brewing Co., 8496 Palm Parkway, Orlando, Florida 32836, (321) 329-5306.

Sea Dog is a small “sports bar” chain that has 2-Florida and 3- Maine locations.

Last night Jeff Eats ate in the Orlando joint…items ordered included burgers, chicken wings, steamed lobster, meatballs, french fries, fried pickles, buffalo chicken dip-and I gotta tell you, everything was mediocre at best. Based on the food-there is no way that I would consider another outing at Sea Dog.

Just so you know, our waiter was terrific, staying on top of everything for our party of-6. In addition, the live band playing 60’s-current covers was very entertaining.

Sea Dog has a full bar and loads of tvs. Not to beat a dead dog, but the food is very weak.

You can check menu/prices/locations at www.seadogbrewing.com.

End of story!

* Another Broken Egg Café, 508 Via de Palmas, Boca Raton, Florida 33432.

Real quick story…

Jeff Eats has a good buddy who lives in Winter Park, Florida.

The other day, he told me about- a breakfast-lunch chain-Another Broken Egg Café that had recently opened in Winter Park. To say that he raved about his breakfasts/lunches- would be an understatement.

To be perfectly honest with you, before my buddy’s “heads-up” Jeff Eats had never heard of Another Broken Egg Café.

Anyway,

Jeff Eats’ “research” turned-up that Another Broken Egg Café currently has 9 Florida locations (34 total) with huge Florida and national expansion plans in the works. For our “immediate”-purposes, sometime in the next 2-weeks- Another Broken Egg Café is set to open in Boca Raton. Check www.anotherbrokeneggcafe.com for menu/prices-locations.

Like I said before, Jeff Eats hasn’t been to Another Broken Egg Café…that said, I got plans to check-out the Boca Raton joint–when it’s up and running. For what it’s worth, Another Broken Egg Cafe’s website/Facebook page have some absolutely dynamite “food” pictures- if the actual food tastes just-half-as good as those photos, this chain may really have something cooking (pun intended).

Just thought that you guys would like to know about a new joint–headed for Boca Raton.

One other piece of business, the Boca location plans to be open 7 days a week from 7am-2pm.

***** Banh Mi Nha Trang, 1216 East Colonial Drive, Orlando, Florida 32803, (407) 346-4549.

Me neither…can’t pronounce the joint’s name for love nor money.

Before we “discuss” this takeout-only “hole in the wall” “mom & pop” Vietnamese “sub” joint that gets $3.50 cash-only per sub–Jeff Eats thought you might appreciate a “tutorial” on what BANH MI is-so courtesy of Wise Greek www.wisegreek.com take a look at the following “definition.” I’ll catch you guys at the end of the page…

“Bánh mi is a Vietnamese sandwich which is famous for being extremely hearty and relatively inexpensive. In its native Vietnam, bánh mi is a common offering at many restaurants and street stalls, and in regions of the world with a large Vietnamese community, the sandwich is also extremely common. In both cases, there are a number of configurations to choose from, with ingredients which range from shredded barbecued pork to tofu, and seasoning which can be mild to intensely spicy.
The development of the bánh mi did not begin until the French colonized Vietnam, introducing people to the baguette, a type of long, thin, crusty French bread. The French colonists developed a sort of salad sandwich, taking advantage of locally available Vietnamese ingredients like fresh greens, pickled vegetables, and spicy chiles, and the early form of bánh mi was born. While the French have left Vietnam, the taste for bánh mi has stayed on.
This sandwich is analogous to the submarine sandwich in the United States, which is also known as a hoagie, po’ boy, hero, grinder, wedge, or Italian, among many other alternate names. However, bánh mi has a few distinctive traits which set it aside from this well known American sandwich. The first is the inclusion of classically Asian ingredients like daikon radish, coriander, pickled carrots, sriracha chili sauce, tofu, and spring onions. The second is the seasoning used on the meats, when meat is included; the meat typically has a distinctively Vietnamese feel.
Pork, beef, and chicken are all used in bánh mi, sometimes even together. The sandwich can also include ingredients like eggs for a breakfast sandwich, and ingredients like seitan, tempeh, and textured vegetable protein are not unknown in vegetarian versions. In all cases, bánh mi typically has a healthy balance of fresh greens and vegetables blended with meats.
Some people call the bánh mi a sort of kitchen sink sandwich, meaning that cooks throw in whatever they have lying around the house. Whether bánh mi is assembled from leftovers or from ingredients which are specifically purposed, it tends to be very filling, with the ingredients typically attempting to explode from the baguette. Most people are accustomed to very inexpensive bánh mi, making it a popular street food and quick meal.”

Anyway,

Jeff Eats and Mrs. Jeff Eats were recently “up” in Orlando…

To make a long story short, I was telling a guy in the Hard Rock Hotel’s lobby about Jeff Eats’ blog-and he recommended that we give Banh Mi Nha Trang a try. Just that simple!

Take a look at Banh Mi Nha Trang’s website www.nhatrangsubs.com. Real simple menu-18 subs/$3.50 a piece.

First- let me tell you, that the joint bakes its own sub rolls–crispy outside/soft inside. No ifs ands or buts about it, right up there with the best sub rolls that Jeff Eats has eaten

The Eats’ outing “netted” us a #6 (grilled pork)- a #9 (fried pork roll)- a #15 (meatballs simmered in tomato sauce)- and I gotta tell you these subs are amazing-delicious.

Like I said before- takeout only, cash only–

Jeff Eats loved Banh Mi Nha Trang.

This joint is an absolute must try.

Banh Mi Nha Trang is open Monday-Wednesday, Friday 10am-7pm, closed Thursday, Saturday-Sunday 10am-8pm.