VINT'S

2008-06-20T01:06:00.000-07:00

I've eaten here about 3 times since they opened and I decided before I walked in this time that I would write a review and post it on my ever so popular food review blog!

So here goes!

Vints American Grill
(It used to be Bigg's but that's its only downside, Bigg's was on my bad side and I was happy to see it go down)
I ordered a Steak dish with Mashed potatoes on the side. I love my meat nice and juicy, not overcooked and not raw...at least that's how I like steak.
The chef at VINTS did an amazing job, the steak was cooked perfectly and I was satisfied.
The Goliath Cab wine went great with the dish as well. Plus the way they serve wine makes me happy, its served in a carafe and placed next to your glass. it helps the wine breathe and adds for a little more interaction with the server... which is a bonus if your friendly like they are.

Bottom LINE:

If you want a hip wine bar and great food to go along with it, VINTS is the place for you. Great gourmet burgers, amazing specials (get the halibut when they have it) also the Cobb salad is fresh, tasty and a great price!

Downsides:
• NO LIQUOR license. So Kuju is ruler here like most hip restaurants around here, Vint's isn't able to serve liquor in their cocktails due to the lack of Liquor license's for sale in the area.
• Hours, like most restaurants on 2nd St. Vint's closes at 10pm on the weekdays. Weekends are better until 12am.

UPsides and why you should visit!
•Great food and atmosphere
• Belmont Shore is amazing! (great spots to window shop, relax for some gelato, or talk with some locals about ripping down the breakwater)
•Classy, great wine bar, good date spot.
• High quality food
• Good prices
• The Outdoor tables and the private backroom

More info:(thanks Press Telegram)

VINT'S AMERICAN GRILL

Where: 4722 E. Second St., Long Beach; (562) 434-3460; dinner only Sunday through Thursday 4 to 10 p.m., Friday and Saturday 4 p.m. to midnight

Atmosphere: contemporary casual

Prices: a la carte entrees mostly $16 to $29; add soup or salad for $6 to $7

Alcohol: Beer and wine; around 30 wines, about 12 by the glass; you can bring your wine for a $15 corkage fee Smoking section: five tables on the sidewalk

Parking: no

Wheelchair accessible: dining room and restrooms

Restrooms: immaculate

Noise level: low roar

Other: banquet room holds up to 34; sidewalk table dining

Credit cards: all major

one of the managers Tim Garner has brought great insights on running a successful VINTS. See his story HERE.

The ceiling at Vints is designed to keep noise down and to keep you entertained during even the most boring conversations.

Go visit, what are you waiting for?
Tell them Samuel Sent you...heck maybe I'll be famous if you do!

Yen Sushi & Sake Bar

2008-04-15T23:39:00.000-07:00

I've eaten at Yen numerous times and love their food!
When I want a nice romantic dinner with my lady, or a healthy after workout meal rich in protein, I cruise by Yen for a great dinner. (yeah, your thinking what place can possibly be good for a romantic date AND an after workout spot? well... I'm a classy after workout eater I guess...)

Here's the rundown:

We ordered a Seared Albacore Salad, a spicy tuna roll, Seafood Yaki Udon and edamame,

Oh, I ordered a Kirin too, My girl ordered Hot green tea. Can't forget the beverages!

Here's what I thought:

Seared Albacore Salad: delicious healthy salad, reasonably priced and filling.
Spicy Tuna Roll: My favorite Sushi Roll ever, simple, healthy and well, perfect!
Seafood Yaki Udon: I loved this dish as well, very fresh and the Udon noodles were cooked perfectly!
Edamame: Cooked perfectly, quite a few were very thin, but salted perfectly.

Health Factor: Eating Healthy at Yen is easy to do.
Price: Moderate ($13-$25 per plate)
Atmosphere: I love the floor to ceiling front windows, the dark wood tables and chairs, the decor is great! Downside is uncomfortable chairs inside...make sure to sit on a pillow or something geeez!!! Its like sitting on a brick wall. Also the tables inside are too low compared to their higher chairs. Backroom good for private parties.
Menu: Even if you don't like Fish you will like some of the chicken items. if you don't like RICE...you are out of luck. Eat at La Creperie.
Drink menu: Like most all of 2nd st. there is a liquor license issue... this is a beer and Wine restaurant. For good cocktails, head to Bono's.
Service: We had Amy serve us. She wasn't that great and she rarely checked up on us...even though it was slow. I expect better service on my next visit. Water glasses should not be empty for more then a minute.
PROS: Good Healthy Food, Location,Style, heated porch for the people watcher in all of us.
CONS: Uncomfortable chairs inside, slow service at times, La Creperie is its loud neighbor.
Conclusion: Go eat at YEN!

www.yensushiusa.com

562-434-5757
4905 E. 2nd St. Long Beach, CA 90803

2nd St. Critique

VINT'S

Yen Sushi & Sake Bar