Baba, oh baby!

Some of you may recall the post I wrote about Talia's Tuscan Table a few months back. Well the genius behind that lovable and addictive Italian restaurant has now expanded and opened Baba's Shrimp Shack right next door.  Finally, fresh, affordable seafood in South Florida! They had their grand opening party on Saturday, and boy was it party for the ages! I have never seen such a crowd for such an event. A true testament to Chef Andy and his reputation for good food and fun! Just look at the crowd, spilling out all over the parking lot:

That's me with Chef Andy in the Captain's hat and bell...told he was was fun!

There was even a band rockin' the house!

The party continued inside as well:

The place was so packed, that I only got to sample a few bites of food, but what I did try was tasty. You may know that I am not a huge seafood fan, so for me to say it was good, it another true testament to Andy's expertise. Everyone seemed to really enjoy it and had a great time! This happy customer says it all!

Best of luck to you Chef Andy! If this party is any indication of your success, then you have a lifetime of busy days ahead of you!

Boca's Best Kept Secret, no more!!

So, one of my favorite spots in Boca, Talia's Tuscan Table, is no longer such a secret spot! They were recently voted Best Italian Restaurant in Palm Beach 2010 by the New Times! To celebrate, Chef Andy and crew threw a Customer Appreciation Party and invited all of their friends for food, fun, drinks, t-shirts and of course, laughs! Take a look:

That's Chef Andy on the right, media guru Keith Gallant on the left!

Check out the T-shirts they had made and gave out for the occasion:

Front View

Back View

Oh, did I mention there was food?? Boy ,was there food! Check out what I sampled:

Pesto Tortellini

Margherita Pizza (I looove the thin, crispy crust of their pizzas!)

Meatballs (made the right way!)

and the Pièce de résistance, the Bronx Bomber!

A sandwich I have always coveted on the menu, but never tried...what was I waiting for???

This beauty is made up of Salami, Capicolla, Mortadella, Ham, Provolone and marinated hot peppers. Add homemade Ciabatta Bread, and I am in looove!  

I realised at the party, that I always order the saaaaame thing every time I visit Talia's...the Rustica Pizza (grilled chicken, artichoke, Gorgonzola and pesto). Yes, it's every bit as good as it sounds. I sometimes add a Caprese Salad if I am extra hungry. By the way, did you know that Talia's makes it own mozzarella? One of those special touches that makes this spot, well THE BEST!

Well, I guess the cat is out of the bag now...I will have to share my favorite lunch spot with the rest of you now. *sigh* Just please save some of that homemade ciabatta for me, OK?!