* BAGGED!!!

Just read the following story in the New York Post–just think if these NYC-guys got elected down here!

“Council seeks 10-cent bag fee…Shoppers could soon be hit with a 10-cent bag fee for every paper or plastic bag they shlep out of the grocery and retail stores, under legislation set to be introduced in the City Council tomorrow. Eight council members have signed on to the eco-friendly endeavor, which would require retail stores to charge–and allow them to keep–a dime for every bag provided to customers. ‘We want to achieve dramatic reductions in bag waste, but we also want to make sure we don’t have any harmful impacts on…small businesses,’ one of the bill’s lead sponsors, Brad Lander (D-Brooklyn, right) said outside City Hall. ‘You can avoid it entirely if you bring your reusable bags.” He said the move emulates efforts in Seattle, Los Angeles, San Francisco and DC that have cut down bag waste by 60 to 95 percent. Officials said the goal was to hit at least the 60 percent mark here while saving on a good chunk of the $10 million the city spends yearly to ship used bags to out-of-state landfills. Customers who pay for groceries with food stamps would be exempt. Restaurants too, would be exempt, while street vendors would not.”
***
The way Jeff Eats sees it…

If a law like this “came” to South Florida, it actually would prove to be a wash—after you’ve spent all of those dimes at Publix, you’ll need to “go” on food stamps…

Governor Scott is looking better and better…

* Gilbert Gottfried (Palm Beach Improv—West Palm Beach)

For what it’s worth, one of Jeff Eats all-time favorite comedians is Gilbert Gottfried…over the years, I’ve seen Gottfried “live” 4 times and each and every time he’s cracked-me up—no fooling around, but the guy who use to be the Aflac Duck—is absolutely brilliant.

Now…assuming we are on the same page here, Gilbert Gottfried is scheduled to make a series of rare South Florida appearances at the Palm Beach Improv, 550 Rosemary Avenue, West Palm Beach, Florida 33410, (561) 833-1812 www.palmbeachimprov.com on Friday-August 30th (8pm, 10:30pm), Saturday-August 31st (7pm, 9:45pm), Sunday-September 1st, (7pm). Tickets are 22 bucks (there is also a 2 drink minimum) and you can buy them on-line.

For those of you who have never been to the Palm Beach Improv…trust me, it’s a great looking showroom and every seat is good. Jeff Eats and Mrs. Jeff Eats have been going there for years—to watch America’s top comics. Just a suggestion—in addition to the show, plan on eating at the Improv…the joint has a very reasonably priced menu and its burgers, cheesesteak sub, wings are probably as good if not better than the stuff your favorite sports bar serves-up.

For those of “you” who may-be from Mars—who don’t know who or what about Gilbert Gottfried, the Palm Beach Improv site has a video for you to watch…also printed below is the Improv’s “biography” for Gilbert Gottfried…

“Gilbert Gottfried: At the young age of 15, Gilbert Gottfried began doing stand-up at open mike nights in New York City and, after a few short years, became known around town as “the comedian’s comedian.” After spending several years mastering the art of stand-up comedy, producers of the legendary NBC late night comedy show Saturday Night Live became aware of Gottfried and, in 1980, hired him as a cast member. It wasn’t until a few years later when his true notoriety would begin when MTV hired him for a series of improvised and hilarious promos for the newly formed channel. This led to several television appearances on “The Cosby Show” and “Late Night with David Letterman.” Gottfried’s work in television soon led to roles in film. Most notable was his improvised scene as business manager Sidney Bernstein in the hit sequel “Beverly Hills Cop II,” for which the New York Daily News said that, “Gilbert Gottfried steals the picture with a single scene.” Aside from his glowing reputation in comedy clubs, Gottfried began to gain a reputation as the king of quirky roles in both movies and television. He appeared in such movies as “Problem Child,” “Problem Child II,” “Look Who’s Talking II” and “The Adventures of Ford Fairlane.” He was also the host of the very popular late night movie series “USA Up All Night.” After his stellar performance as the wise cracking parrot, IAGO, in the Disney classic “Aladdin,” Gottfried became one of the most recognizable voiceover talents. His signature voice can be heard in several commercials, cartoons and movies. Gottfried also is the voice of DIGIT in the long running PBS Series “Cyberchase.” Gottfried has been a regular on the new “Hollywood Squares” and is a frequent guest on “The Tonight Show with Jay Leno” and “The Howard Stern Show.” Gottfried appeared in the hit comedy documentary “The Aristocrats,” with Entertainment Weekly saying that, “out of the 101 comedians who appear on screen, no one is funnier – or more disgusting – than Gilbert Gottfried.” Part memoir, part twisted social commentary, part scratches on the bathroom wall, “Rubber Balls and Liquor,” Gottfried’s hilarious first-ever book, was recently released. Also recently released on both DVD and CD is “Gilbert Gottfried Dirty Jokes” featuring 50 non-stop minutes of Gottfried telling the funniest and filthiest jokes ever. The show was filmed live at the Gotham Comedy Club in New York City. Also featured on the DVD is some of the funniest bonus features ever, including wild stories, indignant ranting and celebrity impressions that will leave viewers crying for more. For this live performance, Gottfried puts aside political correctness and fires an onslaught of jokes that know no boundaries. At the end of the show, Gottfried tells what is known among comedians as the “Dirtiest Joke of All Time,” which is also the basis for “The Aristocrats.” Gottfried is one of the most sought-after comedians, and regularly performs live to sold-out audiences across North America.”
For information call
561-833-1812
Located @
550 S Rosemary Ave. Suite 250 / West Palm Beach, FL 33401

* Joey Dale’s Disco Show (Coral Springs)

Here’s a heads-up for you guys…

On Sunday Night–March 16, 2014 Joey Dale (yes! the same Joey Dale who is the lead singer of doo wop group- Joey Dale & The Gigolos) is producing a Disco Show at the Coral Springs Center for the Arts, 2855 Coral Springs Drive, Coral Springs, Florida 33065, (954) 344-5990…starring—Tavares (“She’s Gone”-“It Only Takes A Minute”-“Heaven Must Be Missing An Angel”), The Trammps (“Disco Inferno”), Mystique, France Jolie (“Come To Me) and Joey Dale & The Gigolos’ tribute to Donna Summer and The Village People.

Jeff Eats knows that it’s August 19, 2013…but you do know that early birds catch the first worms, dont’cha?

Keep an eye on Joey Dale & the Gigolos’ site www.joeydale.com and www.coralspringscenterforthearts.com for show/ticket info.

No question in my mind that this “thing” is gonna sell-out…

So! there is no reason why you guys (who wanna go)- shouldn’t get the best seats in the house- as soon as Joey and the theatre put- tickets on sale.

Lisa Landry

* “Three Hyserical Broads…off their medication”

I know that it’s “only” August 16, 2013…so, not too many people down here in South Florida (except for maybe you guys in Century Village and Kingspoint) are giving this coming Season’s entertainment schedules too much thought…

With that in mind, if you want to be that early bird which catches the first worm—then you gotta order tickets for “Three Hysterical Broads…off their medication” which is coming to the Coral Springs Center for the Arts, 2855 Coral Springs Drive, Coral Springs, Florida 33065, (954) 344-5990 on Saturday Night–January 18, 2014 at 8pm. The “concert” stars three of America’s top comediennes—Valerie Storm, Lisa Landy and Amy Ashton. Jeff Eats has seen all three “girls” in action—and I am telling you, FUNNY! Trust me on this one, this show is gonna sell-out, so if this kinda stuff is your “style”- go to www.coralspringscenterforthearts.com where you can check out the–show and order tickets.

***** Sonic (Greenacres, Boynton Beach, Homestead)

Something like 60 days ago, Jeff Eats tried Sonic for the first time. Since that first outing, I’ve been back 3 additional times….I absolutely love the burgers, fries, onion rings, shakes, soft ice cream, fried chicken and grilled chicken that this fast-food joint serves-up.

Printed below is a “corporate” profile that I swiped from Yahoo Finance–this summary should give you the basics on this 3,500 unit chain that features drive-up service with food-being delivered to your car by a wait-staff on roller skates…think Happy Days, Richie Cunningham, Fonize, Potsie and Ralph The Mouth and you’ll catch the vibe.

“Sonic Corp. operates and franchises a chain of quick-service drive-in restaurants in the United States. As of August 6, 2013, the company operated approximately 3,500 drive-in restaurants in 43 states. It also leases signs and real estate. The company was founded in 1953 and is headquartered in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma.”

Just so you know, there are a load of Sonic outlets in Florida…for our purposes–there is 1 in Greenacres, 1 in Boynton Beach, 1 in Homestead (Miami Gardens and Lauderhill are currently under construction)…but like I just said, there are a ton of others in the great state of Florida (Mr. Chairman, I have the high honor and great privilege to cast…).

Anyway…

Jeff Eats has been to the Greenacres joint 4 times and I got to tell you, that Sonic really got the job done for me. The food was really good– as was the service and the prices were super reasonable (think Burger King, Wendy’s, McDonald’s). The menu is gigantic…burgers, fries, onion rings, soft ice cream, shakes, chicken, salads, hot dogs, desserts—best way for Jeff Eats to describe Sonic—imagine if Burger King, Dairy Queen and Chik fil A—merged…that’s Sonic!…and the joint is open on Sunday!!!

If you haven’t been to a Sonic, GO! You will love it.

Check www.sonicdrivein.com for menu/locations/photos.

* ALOE VERA

The other day, Jeff Eats got a computer “pop up” about Aloe Vera…don’t ask, as I don’t recall- the name of the company that sent me this advertisement which promised all-kinds of “health benefits and cures” from using Aloe Vera. Being the investigative reporter that he is, Jeff Eats decided to “investigate” the “promises”…

I know that you guys know all about the claimed powers of BAKING SODA…from drain cleaning to curing human digestive problems. In a nutshell, Aloe Vera boosters claim- many of the same “powers” for their horse.

To make a long story short, through www.amazon.com Jeff Eats ordered 3 quart bottles of Aloe Vera Gel from a company named Lily Of The Desert…cost 30 bucks—you know and I know that I got the third bottle because I wanted free-shipping…

Anyway…

The “shipment” arrived three days ago…the first test, a small amount of the gel was applied twice a day to a reddish mark that Jeff Eats has had on his right check for something like 20 years…no bs here—the mark has lightened considerably and seems to be fading away…second test, a small amount of gel was applied to a fresh razor cut on Jeff Eats’ chin and the bleeding immediately stopped/several hours later the “cut” was totally healed.

Now maybe I’m imagining this “stuff”—but I don’t think so.

Nothing for nothing…do yourself a favor and Google, Bing or whatever you do—and check Aloe Vera out…

Finally, in my research—I found claims that Aloe Vera can actually grow hair (with results starting as early as 30 days)…

I’ll check back with you guys in 30 days or so and let you know if that rather large Jeff Eats’ bald spot—is any smaller.

* Who Makes The Best Bagels In South Florida?

Fire away!!

* Nicks Pizzeria & Bar (Coral Springs)

Here’s a heads-up for you guys…

Nicks Pizzeria & Bar in Boca Raton is one of Jeff Eats’ favorite pizza joints…now for the skinny–a few months ago, Nicks signed a lease to open a second joint, this time in Coral Springs. Don’t have too many details, but from what I’ve heard…5,200 sq. ft. on Univeristy Drive, plans have been filed with the City, with permits being set to be issued this week… all things being equal–owners Nick and Anthony are looking to open mid-November 2013.

Like I said 12 seconds ago, Nicks Pizzeria & Bar is right-up there with my favorite South Florida pizza joints. Based on its Boca operation, you Coral Spings guys are in for a real treat. As I get details on the project, I’ll update this column.

Printed below, is Jeff Eats’ August 4, 2011 “review” of Nicks Pizzeria & Bar in Boca Raton which at that time had just opened its front door for business.
*****
Nicks Pizzeria & Bar (Boca Raton)
Posted on August 4th, 2011 · Boca Raton Italian Pizza
***** Nicks Pizzeria & Bar, 2240 Northwest 19th Street, Boca Raton, Florida 33431, (561) 368-2900.
As I’ve done numerous times in the past…let me tell you about a terrific joint that “basically” nobody else in South Florida knows about. Say hello to Nicks Pizzeria & Bar, which opened 2-days ago in Boca Raton. This restaurant is soooo-new, that a few days ago, its owners were still tinkering with its name…finally deciding on Nicks Pizzeria & Bar instead of the “original” handle—Nick’s New Haven-Style Pizzeria & Bar.
Here’s the story…Last night I had dinner at this “coal fired” pizza joint–and I gotta tell you, it absolutely blew me away. First of all, for a joint opened only 2- days, the service was right on. The decor is dynamite, with a dark wood 1940s-1950s theme. There are inside booths/tables–outdoor tables. The joint has a full bar area/handful of flat screen tvs and a completly open kitchen. The piped in music, features doo wop, 1950′s-1960′s oldies…though I did hear a couple of Green Eyed Peas’ numbers in the mix.
Let’s talk food…all kinds of- appetizers, salads, wraps, subs (they call them grinders), pizza flats, pastas, desserts. You can do a GOOGLE on what “New Haven Style” pizza is all about…basically, crust-tomato sauce-romano cheese-oregano. NOTICE! there is no mozzarella cheese in the mix. Just so you know, in addition to “this” New Haven stuff, Nicks has “regular” coal oven pizzas, so you (us) New Yooorkers and other purists can get pizza that doesn’t “confuse.”
Last night I had dinner at Nicks. I “sampled” pan-fried mozzarella, steak & cheese grinder, New Haven Style plain pizza, margarita pizza (let’s call this one- New York Style), white clam-bacon-garlic pizza, parmesean fries, rigatoni bolognese…everything and I do mean everything was delicious. For dessert, I “tried” 4 of the 8 gelatos on the menu (I know- someone’s gotta do it!) milk chocolate, pistachio, lemon and coconut—this stuff alone, was worth the price of admission.
Another beautiful thing about Nicks is that it is located right next door– and I do mean right next door to a Weight Watcher Center. Just thought you point-counters would like that info.
Let me wrap this one up by simple saying…I loved Nicks. By the way, you can check menu/prices at www.nickspizzeriabar.com.
Nicks is open 7 days a week 11am-to late.

* Give Us Your Best South Florida Restaurant Picks

Like to hear about your favorite French joints.

Feel “free” to throw in some color–on your picks.

* Uncle Maddio’s Pizza Joint (Tallahassee)

Back on December 29, 2011, Jeff Eats “did” a story on the “make your own” pizza business…the story is re-printed below.

In that story, I told you guys that I was expecting a huge roll-out of this “concept” to hit South Florida…in particular, I briefly mentioned an Atlanta based franchise company, Uncle Maddio’s Pizza Joint as one player to keep an eye on.

It is now some-19 months later…and I “see” that on May 2, 2013 Uncle Maddio’s opened its first Florida outpost in Tallahassee—took the Company a drop-longer that Jeff Eats thought it would to “get into the state”—but it finally happened.

Now, the point of this discussion…Jeff Eats is now hearing, that Uncle Maddio’s is in “tons” of South Florida lease negotiations—so be on the lookout, for this chain to gain extreme South Florida traction over the next 8-12 months.

For what it is worth…Jeff Eats “tried” Uncle Maddio’s in Atlanta and I’m telling you–that these guys make a terrific product, design a great store and are operationally very sound.

The bet here, is that Uncle Maddio’s is going to emerge as theeeee- PLAYER here in Florida and maybe even the United States.

Jeff Eats has been keeping a close eye on this “make your own” pizza segment and from what I’ve seen/tasted/heard…Uncle Maddio’s has the potential to develop into a major fast-food company.

As always…Your thoughts, ideas and assorted nonsense on the industry– are of course welcomed!
*****
Posted on December 29th, 2011 · Fast Food Italian Pizza
***** Uncle Maddio’s Pizza Joint ****
You know that I like to keep you guys-up to date on all kinds of stuff related to food and the food industry.
When you get a chance, check-out Uncle Maddio’s Pizza Joint www.unclemaddios.com.
Real simple pizza-franchise concept…make your own pizzas. You go to the joint, there is a “huge” selection of pizza toppings etc.—the guy/gal behind the counter puts the pizza “together” for you–and it gets delivered to your table within something like 6 minutes.
Trust me on this one, you will soon see these “make your own” pizza joints popping up all over South Florida, not to mention all over the United States. They sort of remind me of the Yogurt by the ounce joints.
Uncle Maddio’s is just one player in this “new” business segment. There are a number of guys-getting into this business, including publiclly traded Pizza Inn.
For right now–as far as I know, there aren’t any Uncle Maddio’s Pizza Joints in South Florida. Betcha a buck, that sometime within the next 6 months, a version-of-this-concept will be in your neighborhood.
Just thought you guys would enjoy hearing about what the food industry is cooking up for you