***** Some Owners Are Smart And Others Aren’t *****

I can’t begin to tell you how many people “tell” Jeff Eats that they feel that many of their favorite restaurants take them for granted.

You guys do know, that some restaurant owners/managers are smart–and that some owners aren’t smart, dontcha?

Let me make this one real short and simple.

Like many of you guys, Jeff Eats eats out a real-lot–and I have a whole bunch of favorite joints that I “repeatedly” go-to.

For all of you restaurant owners/managers out there…customers “love” when you:
1. pick up the check
2. buy a round of drinks
3. buy a round of desserts
4. buy the table an appetizer or two
5. take something off the check
6. stop by the table to chat

Now, I’m not going to name names…but some of my favorite joints “don’t” know how to treat people. For sure my favorites have great food, good prices, great service—but a number of them have owners/managers who treat customers as if they were a dime a dozen. For example, there is a Greek joint that I love—where I’ve eaten something like 20 times in the past 18 months and not even once has the owner/manager ever done any of the SIX items listed above. For example, there is an Italian joint that I love—where I’ve eaten something like 15 times in the past 12 months and not even once has the owner/manager ever done any of the SIX items listed above. You know what a schmuck is? Well they are schmucks and Jeff Eats is a bigger schmuck for continuing to eat there. I guess the owners/managers of these joints think I’m a glutton for punishment—so they don’t go out of their way for me. By the way, based on conversations with other customers, “these” owners play the same game with them, so old Jeff Eats hasn’t been singled out for non-special treatment.

Now for the good news, some owners/managers “know” that customers don’t grow on trees and go out of their way—to please them. I really don’t have time to name-names, but I’m sure you guys out there know which owners/managers do the right thing.

I got an idea, starting with Jeff Eats …let’s not go to the restaurants where “we” don’t get treated “special”—believe me, I can live without that gyro and that chicken parm.

Jeff Eats would love to hear as to who the smart owners are/and which ones aren’t so smart.

***** The Ultimate Thriller ‘The’ Michael Jackson Tribute *****

Tomorrow night-September 1st at 8pm– The Ultimate Thriller ‘The’ Michael Jackson Tribute—will take the stage at the Hard Rock Live in Hollywood.

Based on what I am hearing, this event is almost sold out…with the promoters expecting close to 6,000 people in attendance. If you do some checking (www.theultimatethriller.com) many consider The Ultimate Thriller to be the one of best/if not the best Michael Jackson tribute shows in the world. To give you some idea as to how “exact” the performances are, four South Florida booking agents recently watching video of the show, actually thought that the video was that of the “real” MJ from prior years.

IF this type of event is your bag…I’d recommend buying your GA tickets on Ticketmaster.

By the way, when the “show” was originally planned, there was GA Standing Only on the main arena floor. The promoters have now made that GA Seating, so the best seats will go to the “early birds.”

Jeff Eats will be there.

This thing is gonna be something else!!!.

Read more about this event:

Idol…Icon…Superstar…Legend. Few entertainers achieve this level of success. Michael Jackson was, is, and always will be held in this highest regard. Perhaps, no other performer in history has had such an enormous influence in defining pop music for his generation and generations to follow. With album sales in excess of seven hundred fifty million, including “Thriller”, the biggest selling album of all time, he was, indeed, an icon for the ages.

It was with the greatest of love and respect for Michael`s legacy that The Ultimate Thriller was created. For anyone fortunate enough to have witnessed Michael Jackson`s live shows, the experience was, well, unlike any other. It was with this in mind that The Ultimate Thriller chose to re-create some of Michael`s most memorable concert moments. But this was so much more than just putting together a show and going on tour. For the star of our show, it was about getting an amazing opportunity to perform the songs of the artist he`s most adored his entire life, in front of thousands of people. For the dancers, it was a chance to learn and execute some of the world`s best known choreography. For the band, it was knowing they were going to get to play some of the best music ever produced. And for the production staff and crew, it was about bringing out the best in the performers and being a part of something truly special. To achieve this monumental task would require people with an intimate knowledge of Michael and the inner workings of his live show. To this end, we have assembled some of Michael`s closest collaborators to produce this world-class production.

The Ultimate Thriller`s production team includes LaVelle Smith, who was a choreographer and principal dancer for Michael on the “Dangerous”, “Bad” and “History” tours; Mic Thompson, who spent eight years as a principal dancer for Michael and can be seen in the videos for “Dangerous” and “Ghosts” and Michael Prince, Michael Jackson`s longtime personal recording engineer and audio supervisor for all live and television performances. Their insight and experience with Michael Jackson have been instrumental in providing unparalleled authenticity to the production.

No tribute to a superstar would be complete without the star, himself. The producers of the show have joined forces with E’Casanova, whom many believe to portray the best impersonation of Michael Jackson in the world. He is probably the only entertainer on the planet who can perfectly emulate Michael`s look, voice and dance. Together with an on-stage cast of eleven, state-of-the-art sound, lighting and video, multiple costume changes, incredible choreography and some of the greatest music ever performed, this show is guaranteed to keep Michael Jackson`s legacy alive for years to come.

Just as the appeal of Michael’s music spanned multiple generations, so does the homage paid by The Ultimate Thriller.
The show brings together youthful passion and time-tested wisdom with but one goal: share in the magic, the music and the energy that Michael gave us

***** Whiskey Dicks, 50 East Central, Orlando, Florida 32801, (407) 540-0445.

Whiskey Dicks…real good “sports bar” in Orlando…

Let’s make this one short and simple…some of the best sports bar food old Jeff Eats has had in a very-very long time.

Whiskey Dicks’ menu is kinda “narrow”… basically–appetizers, burgers, hot dogs, sandwiches.

A Jeff Eats’ “taste test” had me doing, meatball appetizer ($6.95)–beer battered onion rings ($5.95)–bacon cheeseburger with waffle fries ($8.95)–philly chicken cheesesteak sub with waffle fries ($8.95)–chicken salad/whole wheat toast with waffle fries ($6.95)…trust me on this one, Whiskey Dicks makes real good sports bar stuff. Throw in loads of flat screen tvs, all types of booze and beers- and Whiskey Dicks handily gets the job done. One special shout-out to that bacon cheeseburger—I loved you!

Just so we are straight, like I said a few seconds ago, the menu is kinda limited—so don’t go looking for all kinds of meat/chicken/ seafood entrees.

You can check menu/prices at www.whiskeydicks-orlando.com.

Whiskey Dicks is open Monday-Saturday 11am-2am, Sunday noon-2am.

***** PUBLIX SUPER MARKETS *****
I recently told you guys about- how on August 25, 2012 I had purchased some “marble cake” at Publix manufactured by Central Pastries. I went on to tell you that the “marble cake” was vile and disgusting.

Just wanted you to know, that on August 27, 2012 “with no questions asked” Publix at the store level refunded the $3.79 purchase price.

Also wanted you to know, that in followup to an email which Jeff Eats sent to Publix Super Markets on August 25, 2012 about the product—Publix “mailed” an apology letter and a $10 gift card to Jeff Eats which was received on August 30, 2012.

Unlike some of the “other” companies us-South Floridians seemingly have to “deal” with on a daily basis–like Comcast and FPL, Publix simply said that they were sorry, that Jeff Eats was a valued customer and that enclosed was a $10 gift card. No excuses, no stories, no stalling, no NOTHING….

PUBLIX SUPER MARKETS knows how to treat people. AND as Robert Blake who didn’t kill his wife (wink! wink!) would say, “And that’s the name of that tune.”

***** Black Eyed Pig BBQ, 5307 Shirley Street, Naples, Florida 34109, (239) 593-5006.

By now…”regular” Jeff Eats’ readers know, that I’m not huge fan of smoked bbq stuff. With that in mind–if I tell you that you gotta try a particular smoked bbq joint- it must be dishing out some really delicious stuff. YOU GOTTA TRY BLACK EYED PIG IN NAPLES, FLORIDA!

At this stage of the game, check www.naplesbbq.com for menu/prices and loads of photos.

Just a guess here…but if you hadn’t read or heard about Black Eyed Pig BBQ—based on its roadside look, you wouldn’t just stop and walk-in. When you check Black Eye’s website, you’ll find pictures–so you’ll appreciate what I’m yapping about.

Dumpy looking joints…are what Jeff Jeff Eats is all about.

Let’s talk food…”tried” pulled pork on Texas toast—St. Louis smoked ribs in a sweet-tangy sauce—beef brisket on a kaiser roll—beer battered onion rings—sweet potato french fries. Do you know what “like a pig in sh@t” means? Well, when I was “trying” this stuff, Jeff Eats was “like a pig in sh@t.” Everything was absolutely delicious. If I got one bitch here, it’s that Black Eyed Pig which has loads of appetizers, salads, burgers, bbq stuff, sides—doesn’t have mac & cheese.

Anyway…if divey–cool–reasonably priced delicious smoked bbq is your bag…then, you gotta try Black Eyed Pig.

Black Eyed Pig BBQ is open Monday-Friday 11am-8pm, Saturday noon-8pm, closed on Sunday.

* “Zinger’s Delicatessen–1 Year Anniversay”

About a year-ago, I told you guys about Zinger’s Delicatessen which had just opened in Boca Raton. One year later–some things bear repeating…

Zinger’s Delicatessen is one of the best, if not the best–New York Kosher Style Deli in South Florida.

I have “reprinted” Jeff Eats’ August 18, 2011 review…and it needs “only” three minor changes:
1: Zinger’s is open 7 days a week for lunch/dinner and for breakfast on Saturday-Sunday,
2: Zinger’s “current” potato knishes are as good as the pushcart-ones I mentioned.
3: Zinger’s website is up and running.

If real New York Kosher Style deli is you game, you gotta try Zinger’s Delicatessen!

***** Zinger’s Delicatessen, 7132 Beracasa Way, Boca Raton, Florida 33433, (561) 826-7323.

If, delicious- New York Kosher Style Deli is your game—you absolutely, positively have to give Zinger’s Delicatessen in Boca Raton a try.

For you fressers out there…Zinger’s in a “former” life, was Pastrami Queen (see 9/12/08 writeup)…to make a long story short, family “matters” resulted in Pastrami Queen closing in late 2010. This past Tuesday, Zinger’s opened for business—for our purposes, SAME OWNER!–NEW “NYC” DECOR!–SAME TERRIFIC FOOD!

Last night I ate dinner at Zinger’s.

Zinger’s is located in the exact-spot where Pastrami Queen was. Gary Zinger who owned Pastrami Queen is Zinger’s owner. The restaurant’s layout hasn’t changed, but the decor has…let’s just say, that stainless steel walls/ceiling and art-deco signage rival the best-deli decor here and in NYC. The joint has 3-flat screen tvs and a takeout counter that will make you want to quit Weight Watchers.

Let’s talk food…

To be perfectly honest with you, I seriously doubt that there is a better New York Kosher Style Deli down here in South Florida. I’ll even go so-far as to say, Zinger’s Delicatessen can easily hold its own with legendary players like NYC’s- Carneige, Stage, 2nd Avenue and Katz’s delis…if you aren’t a native Nooo Yoorker, please feel free to insert your hometown favorite delis’ names.

Just so you know, I was a Pastrami Queen “regular”…so, it was absolutely impossible to eat-at Zinger’s, shall we say incognito. The meal was “on the arm” with Gary Zinger literally having me “try” everything in the joint. Take it for what it’s worth, the pastrami, corned beef, brisket, turkey off the bone are as good as it gets. The joint also makes- delicious, potato pancakes-chopped liver-tuna salad-chicken salad-matzoh ball soup-smashed French fries-Italian beef sub.

Just so we are straight…don’t want you to think that I’m a Zinger’s shill—I’ve eaten better potato knishes—like the ones my father, brother Andy and I use to get in 1958 from the pushcart stationed right outside of Fortunoff on Livonia Avenue in Brooklyn while waiting for my mother to finish shopping.

Trust me on this…Zinger’s is a homerun.

Like I said before, I tried a load of stuff. I will tell you, that the sandwiches being delivered to the tables were nice-sized… I didn’t see one group leave without a doggy bag… and no one bitched to Gary about the service/prices.

Zinger’s website is www.zingersdelicom. The site is currently under construction, so give it some-time to get up and running.

Zinger’s does breakfast, lunch and dinner…The joint is open 7 days a week 7am-10pm.

Central Pastries/CueteraAmerica Company

From what I understand Central Pastries/Cuetera America Company is a commercial bakery located in Hialeah.

This morning I was in the Publix Super Market located on Palmetto Park Road/Powerline Road in Boca Raton…and purchased a package of Central Pastries’ “Marble Pound Cake.” From the clear plastic packaging, the 9 “minature” pound cakes looked absolutely amazing…

Au contraire ..when I got home, I found the pound cake to be one of the most disgusting “cakes” that Jeff Eats has ever eaten. If you want to know what chalk tastes like—give this product a shot—I will tell you, that even throwing the damn thing into the microwave didn’t help–still tasted like CHALK albeit HOT CHALK!!

I have no idea as to what Central’s other cakes/pastries taste like, but based on the marble pound cake, Jeff Eats’ bet is that they are also disgusting.

Trust me on this one…I’ve eaten a ton of pound cake in my day–this stuff was VILE!!

Central Pastries and Publix should be ashamed of themselves for selling crap like this.

***** SHAKE SHACK *****

Back on August 1, 2010 Jeff Eats told you about Shake Shack which had just opened in South Beach..

In that “review”–I told you guys that Shake Shack a fast-food burger joint was “fast food at its best.”

Regular Jeff Eats readers know, that there is no doubt in my mind- that the fast-food burger “business” is totally oversaturated with players—that one day, in the very near future-this gigantic game of musical chairs is gonna end very badly for most of them. There is also no question in my mind, that when all is said and done, Shake Shack will be one of the few players left standing.

I just received the following press release from Shake Shack…thought you guys in Boca Raton would enjoy this “news”…

*****

SHAKE SHACK COMING TO BOCA RATON, FLORIDA, MID-2013
Beloved Burger, Hot Dog and Frozen Custard Stand to Open on Glades Road

NEW YORK, NY – August 21, 2012 – Shake Shack® is proud to announce it will open a new free-standing location in Boca Raton’s University Commons shopping center in mid-2013.

Boca Raton’s thriving business scene, academic community, and world-class resorts make it an excellent locale for Danny Meyer’s Union Square Hospitality Group (USHG) to bring Shake Shack. Known for its all-natural burgers, flat-top dogs, frozen custard, beer, wine and more, the newest addition to the Shack family will be located at 1400 Glades Road, directly across from Florida Atlantic University.

“We are thrilled to be joining the vibrant scene at University Commons, and we hope this Shack will be an exciting destination for Boca locals, FAU students, and visitors alike,” said Randy Garutti, Shake Shack CEO. “This will be a true ‘roadside’ Shack and include an expansive outdoor patio for alfresco dining.”

Born in New York City in 2004, Shake Shack opened its first Florida location in June 2010 in Miami Beach, receiving praise from guests and media including a three-star review in the Miami Herald. In July 2012, Shake Shack opened its second Florida location in Coral Gables on US1 across from the University of Miami.

Like its siblings in Florida and beyond, the Boca Raton Shake Shack will be constructed with recycled and sustainable materials, wherever possible, and feature energy-efficient kitchen equipment and LED lighting throughout the space. The menu will feature all the Shake Shack classics, as well as a selection of frozen custard concretes created specifically for this location, with names and ingredients that pay homage to the local community.

For more information, including a list of all current Shake Shack locations, please visit www.shakeshack.com.

About Shake Shack
Shake Shack® is a modern day “roadside” burger stand known for its all-natural burgers, flat-top dogs, frozen custard, beer, wine and more. With its fresh and simple, high-quality food at a great value, Shake Shack is a fun and lively community-gathering place with widespread appeal. From its ingredients and employment practices to its environmental responsibility, design and community investment, Shake Shack’s mission is to continually Stand for Something Good®.

Shake Shack is part of Danny Meyer’s Union Square Hospitality Group (USHG), which includes many of New York City’s most celebrated restaurants: Union Square Cafe, Gramercy Tavern, Blue Smoke, among others (www.ushgnyc.com). Since the original Shake Shack opened in 2004 in NYC’s Madison Square Park, it now has multiple locations in New York, as well as Miami and Coral Gables, FL, Washington, DC, Westport, CT, Philadelphia, PA, and two international locations in Dubai and Kuwait City. www.shakeshack.com

For all media inquiries, please contact:
Edwin Bragg | Shake Shack PR Director | 646.747.6654 | ebragg@shakeshack.com
Greg Waters | Shake Shack PR Manager | 646.747.7080 | gwaters@shakeshack.com

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***** Tower Of Pizza, 100600 Overseas Highway, Key Largo, Florida 33037, (305) 451-3754.

Got an “OK” Pizza-Italian joint for you…Tower Of Pizza in Key Largo.

Tower Of Power–is located in a free-standing building and has been around since 1975…I seriously doubt that the inside/outside has been “updated” in 37 years. When you walk in, it looks like a diner/pizza joint/general store circa 1975. To Jeff Eats’ “eye” the inside/outside looked really retro and cool…that’s basically why I gave it a shot.

Just so we are straight with each other, the operative word in this review is “OK” (if that’s a word)…This mom & pop red sauce joint has the full boat of appetizers, pizzas, pastas, subs, meat/chicken/seafood entrees. Jeff Eats recently did a “lunch” there… Greek salad, pizza, veal parm sub, sausage & peppers sub, philly cheesesteak sub, garlic rolls…like I said a few seconds ago, OK-stuff…Now don’t get me wrong, Jeff Eats enjoyed everything…the folks who run the joint are as pleasant as can be…the prices are borderline dirt-cheap—all I know-if I was a 19 year old-college kid eating with my friends-I would have enjoyed Tower Of Pizza’s food more than I did.

You can check menu/prices at www.towerofpizzakeylargo.com.

The joint is open 7 days a week 11am-11pm.