Reviews – Page 3 – Travel With A Purpose

Italy Bound

Posted on June 25, 2015by admin

I am always so amazed that one nation has so many ethnic influences. I am even more thrilled by how many foreigners are finding entrepreneurship to be the Caribbean goldmine in Trinidad and Tobago. Business tourism is one of the many sectors that is flourishing as Trinidad dons the name “Manhattan of the Caribbean.” Another aspect of business that goes hand in hand with tourism is food. The colonizers can probably hold responsibility for all that is happening now. It is so ironic that the nation changed so many hands from European to British (and the list goes on and on) and today more than ever the foreign trade is making ties to this country and foreigners are migrating to set up business here. This is phenomenally paradoxical as the nation was fought for its trade potential ( among others) and now so many of its predecessor host county men and women are settling here for the purpose of business without the angst and hostility of war.

The Italians have since settled in Tobago and operate mostly food businesses. Hence, they celebrate their signature Italian food and desserts and they have been grown fond of over the years for their food and personable nature. In addition, this Italian food trend has become popular in Trinidad. There has been several launches of pizzerias, cafes and restaurants. The most recent that I have noticed happens to be Giro’s Pizza in Chaguanas. This is another first for Central Trinidad adding more cultural value to their landscape.

Giro’s Pizza is located at #87 Old Southern Main Road, Edinburgh Village in Chaguanas (just look for the red, green and white horizontal striped flag on the left hand side of the road opposite Wing Hua Chinese Restaurant). Their opening hours are Tuesdays to Thursdays 12:00 noon to 8:00 p.m. On Fridays and Saturdays they open from 12:00 noon to 9:00 pm. Sundays are more laid back as they open from 4:00 pm to 8:00 p.m. Giro facilitates walk ins, order to pick up service and delivery service (at the extra cost of TTD$15.00). This quaint pizzeria does not provide dine in service and there is limited street parking.

The menu captures wood oven baked pizza with meat, fish, shrimp and vegetarian options. The pizza sizes vary from 10 inches to 15 inches. These pizza prices can start as low as TTD$45.00 and scale all the way up to TTD$110.00. There is also vegetarian, chicken and beef lasagne all at TTD$59.00. Some interesting desserts are also hand crafted and stored for the sweet tooth fans. These include key lime pie, classic cheesecake, carrot cake, tiramisu, almond mousse cheesecake and panna cotta. The dessert rates start at TTD$20.00 and vary until they taper at TTD$35.00 per item.

My experience

Location: 4 stars

This is a convenient and accessible location

Parking: 3 stars

There is limited parking in front of the shop. Thankfully I went on a holiday and there was parking on the other side of the road as the business there was closed for the day. However, there are many spots on the street that accommodate parking.

Cleanliness: 4 stars

Giro keeps his work stations clean and washes his hands frequently. There is proper storage and refrigeration of food. Overall, clean place. But there is always room for improvement in sanitation.

Service:4 stars

There was a wait before getting the orders done but it was not very long as the pizza making and baking did not take long either. It is useful to note this can be a one man show at times (well at least the day I visited). The pizza chef did everything it seems; the cashing and pizza making but he is quite attentive, humble, warm and keeps good humour (typical traits of most Italians).

Food: 4 stars

This is authentic Italian cuisine and the wood oven makes it even more realistic. I took pizza fanatics with me (I’m on a low fodmap diet so I really cannot indulge in certain items for a while) to do the taste testing. They ordered a large eight slice Nibali pizza at TTD$90.00. This consisted of mozzarella, tomato sauce, pepperoni, pineapple and onions. They swapped the pepperoni for chicken on half of the pizza which is also an option if you would like to try two different types of pizza. They thoroughly enjoyed it but were not overly impressed as one of them found it not to be “fulling” to them whilst the other was able to eat twice from their share of pizza. Italian pizza is not American pizza so the Italian thin crust can probably account for this as well as the individual’s stomach capacity.

Ambiance: 4 stars

There is some homage to Italy with icons from the host country decorating the wall partitions. There is some abstract art on the wall as well. There are Giro Pizza logos branding the refrigerators and entrance. There is light Italian music and the live pizza making action and interaction of a busy light hearted Italian chef.

Price: 4 stars

The price is reasonable.

For more information on Giro’s Pizza

Visit them online at

https://www.facebook.com/pages/GiroPizza/1386129835039112?sk=timeline

Place your order

1-868-280-4476 (GIRO)

Trinidad – Wine Country?!

Posted on June 20, 2015by admin

Trinidad and Tobago has been earmarked, “the party island”. It is worth noting that we are often affectionately referred to as “The Land of Rum”. While we are not known as a wine country ( except if we were talking about the dance form “wining” but we are not) ‘Trinbagonians’ have produced their own local wines for quite some time. This country has also imported our wines to fit the increasing demand for this supply. The importation of wines are infamous with the booming local food and beverage industry. The restaurants and retail wine shops provide a taste of home for the many nationalities that reside in this multicultural twin island state. In addition, it gives the ‘Trinbagonian’ national the opportunity to travel around the world in a sip, a glass and of course a bottle. This suggests that in the future perhaps Trinidad may adopt yet another nickname for the love of wine.

There are quite a handful of wine retailers over the East to West corridor of Trinidad. So one can imagine the trials and tribulations one would endure to get there from the south or central parts of Trinidad just to acquire a decent bottle of wine. ( Of course, there are wines and other liquors sold at selected supermarkets and convenience stores.) However, the growing niche of persons interested in selection, premium quality, taste and variety is left in some sort of bewilderment at the lack of a nearby wine shop especially if they do not ‘ply’ the East/West Corridor often.

Thankfully someone realized this very need and TNT Wine Cellars opened their doors at A1 Atlantic Plaza in Point Lisas last year. This is the first wine shop in Central Trinidad. The owner and founder of TNT Wine Cellars has over ten years experience in the auction of wines in the U.S.A. This experience has been channeled in a creative way to the opening of TNT Wine Cellars. The store is chic and small but fits the need in Central Trinidad. The layout is not too stereotypical or bourgeoisie. Most of the furniture is sustainable as they are made from wine crates. There is an artistic flair and a vivacious energy bursting out from the very walls, doors and shelves of the wine store.

(Door made from wine crate)

This is not a snob like wine retailer. It is a place for the convening of novice wine souls to the aged sommelier. The funky youth, the chic and classy metropolitan to the man on the street wishing to purchase a bottle of wine in the celebration of some special occasion in his life are all welcomed. The prices are affordable as the people of Trinidad and Tobago and the inherent economy were taken into consideration before the start of this venture.

The concept of the shop is wine focused with a few extras such as accessories, champagnes and other alcoholic spirits. There is online shopping, an order and pick up service and even delivery service. They also cater to special events. The customer service is warm. The staff is very knowledgeable as the customer can always get a consultation on the type of wine to buy before purchase.

So if you are in the area feel free to check them out Monday – Friday from 9:00 am – 5:00 pm.

They were open today for their Father’s Day sale from 10:00 am until 3:00 p.m.

https://www.facebook.com/tntwinecellar?fref=ts&ref=br_tf

http://tntwinecellar.com/index.php

Salt N Pepper – The Review

Posted on June 12, 2015by admin

Salt N Pepper is conveniently located in Shoppes of Maraval near to Papa John’s. The restaurant is relatively new just opening in November 2014. They serve Indian and Pakistani cuisine. Their serving portions are quite reasonable and their rates are comparable. Whilst this is not a huge restaurant it fits the description of a more intimate and updated take out/walk in type of set up. The customer still gets waiter service if they decide to dine in. One should note that gluten free and fodmap dieters can comfortably eat at Salt N Pepper. My order was some aloo paratha which I requested gluten free paratha. Their food was good. Yet again I am amazed at the clear distinction between Indian paratha and Trinidadian paratha as they are two totally different things. I have zero complaints about their staff as they were helpful and attentive.

My suggestions

The restaurant is fairly new and their focus seems to be creating authentic and quality food. I feel as though a few more things could have been done. Of course I am not judging because maybe these things will be rolled out as part of their strategic plan or even marketing plan in the future. But let us not be oblivious to the fact that I have been in marketing, hospitality and tourism for a minimum of eight years.

Ambiance: I loved the look it is almost like an Indian diner (the Indian version of the American diner). However, dining out is an experience and even diners set the mood and tone with some music. I would have loved to feel immersed in India while dining. This would have added some vibe and pulled some patrons to return or visit for this experience.

Staff: The staff is so sweet and kind. Whilst I noted only two persons I did hear faint Indian accents echoing from the kitchen. I would have loved to at least interacted at some point with authentic Indian staff to make me feel as if I really went to India without leaving Trinidad. Perhaps this can be implemented where a staff member maintains a role to visit the dining customers when they are eating and simply ask about the customer’s dining experience. Another idea is to interact with the customer by serving them or retrieving their plates.

Marketing: Social media, word of mouth, print advertisement seems to be the “run of the mill” with their advertising. I am not too sure how an average day is gauged in terms of number of patrons and dollars. But during my time there which was just after lunch I only saw about ten persons including myself and a friend. I completely understand that their space is small but I believe marketing is about racking up those numbers. I suggest they tap into product differentiation and try other target markets. I did notice there is some advertisement of similar services offered on their website but I am curious about their leads and follow up on this. They can explore collaboration as a supplier for expos (career fairs, school events or industrial events) and catering for industrial meetings (the industrial sector is forever flooded with meetings and tea plates or snack boxes). They can investigate a partnership with Eat 868 the local gourmet delivery service. Nonetheless this is the digital era and so much can be done for free with access to social media platforms. It basically takes some time to just be creative and plan ways of connecting with the target market and keeping them up to date with the happenings of the restaurant from menu changes to deals and closing times.

https://www.facebook.com/saltnpepper/info?tab=page_info

http://www.saltnpeppertt.com/

Well that’s my two cents they can take it or leave it. Notwithstanding, Salt N Pepper has the right formula. Their food is good and once the product is top notch and the service is okay this model can function. However, this is the world of business so room for improvement will set Salt N Pepper apart from its competitors. Trinidad already has quite a few Indian restaurants. Although they are located in several parts of the country clear distinctions in a well marketed brand will determine whether the clients choose the competitors over Salt N Pepper.

So if you have not been there yet…

Go check them out and take some friends with you!

xoxo

Let’s Go Trinidad and Tobago

Chimichanga- Mexican Fast Food in Trinidad

Posted on April 11, 2015by admin

A Chimichanga can best be described as a deep fried burrito. However the Chimichanga I speak about is an orange food cart that is situated on “the cross” or Cross Crossing in San Fernando. It is found closest to the Kenson Institute just before the traffic lights if you are exiting JTA Supermarket. Also it is usually the last food cart at the end of the food strip of huts. It can also be the first hut if you are driving up the strip just after Kenson heading towards the JTA Supermarket. There you will find a brightly coloured hut named “Chimichanga” and you can find a park as close as possible to it if you are driving. They are open on Fridays and Saturdays from 7 pm – 11 pm.

The menu at Chimichanga consists of burrito bowls, tacos and burritos. The rates vary for different items. The prices range from TTD$25.00 – TTD$40.00. They are very organized from ordering, production to customer service delivery. The surroundings are clean. The team that works there is outfitted in Chimichange t-shirts which differentiates them for bringing a level of professionalism, marketing, branding and courtesy to restaurant operations even on a cart. There is a certain synergy of passion and love for what they do that should not go unmentioned because it is felt when this same energy is transferred to the customers.

My order consisted of a fish burrito wrap and chicken tacos (soft shell). The burrito comprised of Mexican rice, black beans, shredded cabbage, corn, salsa, lime, pepper, sour cream, chips and fish. The tacos were stuffed with chicken, vegetables, salsa, corn, sour cream, cheese and chips. Usually guacamole is added but my friend opted for its omission to the tacos. Both items were delectable bursting with colour, zest, flavour and so much excitement packed into a wrap! Yet, I noticed that the chips sprinkled on the burritos, tacos as well as the wraps and shells themselves were prepackaged (I know some people who go ballistic over the authenticity of food including myself). All the other items seemed to have been home cooked which contributed to a realistic Mexican appeal even the fish. However, I do understand the model of their business and the need to use prepackaged taco shells and burrito wraps because of the fast food pace, storage, cook time and the list goes on.

Chimichanga is a recent addition to the food strip in the south land and hopefully it continues to be a star attraction there. It brings diversity and cultural value to the destination Trinidad. I highly recommend that you try them out if you have not done so already. After my first purchase there I can definitely say it won’t be my last. The food is as vibrant and impressive as the Mexican culture and people. It is simply amazing that even though some of the former inhabitants of Trinidad were from Latin America that today we can still share in the celebration of their lifestyle through their food.

Contact Chimichanga today!

https://www.facebook.com/chimichanga.trinidad/timeline?ref=page_internal

1-868-780 – 6954

French Dining in Trinidad

Posted on April 11, 2015by admin

I was absolutely mesmerized when I first saw photos of Chef Khalil Ali’s work on his Facebook page. I could not believe that this native to Trinidad was so versed in french cooking skills. Of course I did learn that he trained and also built his portfolio globally. I guess like all birds that leave the nest this one eventually returned home to share his experience and gift with the locals. He opened his cafe in Port of Spain and it became a popular spot for many who appreciate French cuisine and five star food.He closed this Port of Spain cafe and reopened in Chaguanas at Caroni Savannah Road some years later.

There is an open floor plan with comfortable seating at his new cafe. The decor is not overdone or too quaint. There is a faint Parisian vibe from the paintings on the wall to the almost terrace like appeal of sitting with your coffee whilst watching the busy world on the streets. However, we live in a very humid climate so from indoors amidst the air conditioning we can still thoroughly enjoy this scene. A touch of life and a pop of colour is added with a single yellow flower to each table. The usefulness of old wine bottles as vases for these flowers is even more rustic. The Parisian music further captures and enhances the French ambiance.

His menu is not restricted to French cuisine as there are some local fusions on the menu as well.The food portions are sufficient and the rates are affordable. There is breakfast, lunch and dinner. Chef Ali has exclusive and decadent gourmet desserts, pastries and breads. Hot and cold beverages are also available. These range from coffee, tea, soft drinks and juices.

While dining there my colleague and I opted for pumpkin soup and a chicken wrap. We were greeted with menus and the waiting time for food to table was not very long. Moreover, the staff was courteous and friendly. They kept us informed on wait time for our meal. We were very pleased with the meals. The food was flavorful and delicious. We were also able to take away our leftovers (because we were pressed for time).

Nonetheless, the sweet strains of French music set the tone for the day. It allowed anyone dining to escape to destination France while relishing in their delightful meals in one location,Trinidad. It is my opinion that meal times should never be rushed but sometimes hectic lifestyles do not afford us the luxury of a parsimonious breakfast, lunch or dinner. However, when one gets the opportunity to indulge they can choose to enjoy great food and even better company in French style.

Undeniably, what appealed to me the most was how much this cafe stood out amongst its competition. Its simplicity and old world charm yet new age sleekness is astonishing. This experience really put me in my zone too (so bad that I only remembered to buckle up my seat belt about half hour after departure from Peche Patisserie). Those of you who do not know what my zone is it is a state of ecclesiastical bliss and inner peace. It is a state of balance where the energy that surrounds me becomes a positive beacon for life.

Notwithstanding, food specially crafted by skilled hands with a soul that is passionate and purely benevolent with such talent will inevitably transfer light and love to the cafe, staff and customers who consume the chef’s offerings. It is obvious that Chef Ali understands and appreciates his craft very well. Again, this is clearly visible throughout the entire establishment from front line to back line all the way to the different points of service encounters.

We look forward to supporting Peche Patisserie as patrons of their business now and in the future.

Contact Peche Patisserie

1-868-223-2433

https://www.facebook.com/peche.patisserie

"Trini" Alice in Filipino Wonderland

Posted on January 5, 2015by admin

The Honourable Dr. Eric Williams invited the Filipino community to Trinidad in 1964. This was just after his trip to the Far East. He may have realized that for such a skilled nation of 7,102 islands and over 103 million people it may have been competitive for the Filipinos to find work in their own job market. He may have also realized that this community which speaks English, Spanish and dialect Tagalog of Catholic and Muslim religions may have been similar to his multicultural state of Trinidad and Tobago. In addition, a lightning bolt idea probably struck him when he may have realized the resourcefulness and dual benefit to these citizens and to his Trinidad if he offered them employment by inviting these skilled professionals to fill the labour shortages in his country. Later they would arrive from the island of Cebu and the capital city of the Philippines, Manila to fill skill gaps as medical personnel, doctors, nurses, pharmacists and to assist with the restructuring of the then TELCO Trinidad telephone state services which were deplorable and affecting everyone including Dr. Eric Williams. Today, the estimated Filipino population in Trinidad is approximately over 1,000 persons. They are found in several skilled areas of engineering, medicine, construction, art, culture, business and culinary arts.

I have been fortunate to have been invited to their “potlucks” on several occasions (Birthdays and New Years Eve) to experience first hand Filipino culture. This is a house party with lots of Filipino food ( the Filipinos attending bring a dish or more to the table), karaoke singing and family (this does not necessarily mean blood relation but friends from the Filipino community in Trinidad). Filipino food is usually steamed or stir fried. Their diet is quite healthy and they consume less oil. Although, there is almost always the roasting of a pig over an open fire! This pig is stuffed with herbs and covered in coconut oil and roasted for flavor, texture and fat reduction! It is neither too salty or too sweet or too spicy but flavorful for the palate. Even if you are not family you are treated as though you are part of their household. There is plenty laughing and though they speak Tagalog their English is quite good and the “Trini” dialect as well! They are excellent hosts as they always make sure their guests are comfortable and happy. Their hospitality emanates like a pulsating aura of love and positive, clean, happy energy throughout their home from the minute they greet you throughout your stay even until you leave and get in your car ready to leave. One can reminisce that they went to the Philippines and returned to Trinidad as this culture immersion captivates individuals each time almost like magical realism to a “Trini” Alice in a “Filipino” Wonderland fairytale!

It is this very essence of culture immersion, adaptability and diversification that reflects how one nation, a twin island state can exist in peace with many others under one sun and one sky. Trinidad is blessed by this beautiful gem of multiculturalism. Even though we are many cultures the respect and appreciation for each other shout volumes of amplified unity and harmony as one body of a Trinbagonian identity.

So Live and Let Live,

Love and Be Loved,

Experience Culture & Respect Each Other

Represent Your Nation

Trinidad and Tobago

The True Caribbean

xoxo

Let’s Go Trinidad and Tobago

Fairy Cakes #magicinabox

Posted on July 8, 2014by admin

“Pat-a-cake, pat-a-cake, baker’s man.

Bake me a cake as fast as you can;

Pat it, roll it and mark it with a “B”,

Put it in the oven for baby and me.^[1]

Patty cake, patty cake, baker’s man.

Bake me a cake as fast as you can;

Roll it up, roll it up;

And throw it in a pan!

Patty cake, patty cake, baker’s man.^[2]^[3]

Patty cake, patty cake, baker’s man.

Bake me a cake as fast as you can;

Roll it up, roll it up;

Put it in a pan;

And toss it in the oven as fast as you can!”

Forget the Baker’s man look out for the baker woman! Here’s a hint! She’s a foxy chef with a flair for creativity and an eye for detail touched by the warmth of humility and massive personalization! She has done several cakes for me and just like “magic in a box” they surprise me! They leave me with glitter, sparkle and that extra fuzzy vibe every time! Fairy Cakes is a gourmet cupcake service from central Trinidad. They are quite a lifestyle brand since they are never missing from exclusive local celebrity gatherings and the coolest parties on the island. Although they provide more than specialty cup cakes they also specialize in fantasy weddings, birthdays, corporate functions and special occasion cakes and cookies. The chef starts from scratch and her magical hands begin to create and sculpt your dream cake just as you requested!

SPECIALTY CUPCAKE FLAVOURS
(Includes alcohols such as premium rum, vodka, Baileys, and various liquers)
White Chocolate Caramel Cupcakes
Baileys Cupcakes
Margarita Cupcakes
Strawberry Daquiri Cupcakes
White Russian Cupcakes
Pina Colada Cupcakes
Rum & Raisin Cupcakes
Black Forest Cupcakes
Butterscotch Cupcakes

GO LOCAL CUPCAKES!

Coconut Lime Cupcakes
Sweet Curry Cupcakes
Ponche de Creme Cupcakes
Simply Barbadine Cupcakes
Soursop Punch Cupcakes
Passionfruit Daiquiri Cupcakes
Mango Daiquiri Cupcakes
Lemon Carambola Cupcakes
Orange Pineapple Cupcakes

HOUSE CUPCAKE FLAVOURS
Chocolate Cupcakes
Dark Chocolate Cupcakes
Mocha Cupcakes
Coffee Caramel Cupcakes
Coconut Cupcakes
Vanilla Cupcakes
Red-Velvet Cupcakes
Oreo Cookies & Cream Cupcakes
Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cupcakes
Cinnamon Mocha Cupcakes
Banana Chocolate Chip Cupcakes

The skill and detail to attention is phenomenal as well as the taste, texture and durability. I love them because they also fill the gap of attention to durability. This is important because sometimes a cake needs to survive a long distance trek across rocky road Trinidad for a special event in tropical humidity! In addition, it also needs to last a few days if its being dropped off in advance for an event or to allow for those who like to savor the moment and stretch their cake consumption for a bit longer than the event day. (This is usually my predicament)

Bakers are creatives and artisans in their own right. They are trained in their field, they experiment, they learn and they create magic! While business is business the price on creativity is priceless! Innovation, Ideation, Creativity, Imagination the keys to the future of their creative lives are in their hands. We at Let’s Go Trinidad and Tobago would like to recognize Fairy Cakes for their excellent service delivery and their creativity! May they continue to be their best and strive to propel forward!

purple-fairies-fairy-dust-girls-lake-magic-moon-playful-170211

Check out Fairy Cakes!

#delivery #pickups #magicinabox

https://www.facebook.com/pages/Fairy-Cakes/384012932320

xoxo

Lets Go Trinidad and Tobago

REPRESENT!

Ecstasy in a box- Abraham’s Grill Hut

Posted on June 5, 2014by admin

(a photo of Abraham’s Grill Hut courtesy their Facebook page

https://www.facebook.com/AbrahamsGrillHut

)

After months of not being able to take you guys up on your offer I finally made it! As you may have guessed it this is my gratitude post to my darling sweethearts at Abraham’s Grill Hut at Munroe Road near the Fly Over! I am going to jump straight into my review! All I can say is Oh My Word you continue to astound me with exemplary service and baffle me with your gifts.The shift manager “Sammy” was on point just as well! Customer service and knowledge of menu were key mannerisms that did not fail him!

As I saw the sign lighting up behind the counter on the Red Snapper now available like the glitter bag inside me just exploded to say, “Yes I will have that too” and so I did have my red snapper, loaded potato and stuffed ravioli( sweet heaven was so awesome). My friend opted for mashed potatoes and barbequed chicken. We ordered separately cajun chicken pasta for a guest of ours. We were most pleased with the exceptional food; appearance, quality and quantity.

(Red Snapper, Loaded Potato, Stuffed Ravioli)

(Barbecued Chicken and Mashed Potatoes)

(Cajun Chicken Pasta)

However, we were most captivated by our desserts. Oh my God! These three words pretty much summarize our ecstasy in a box. My friend had chocolate eruption which is actually more mousse than cake and it was so divine (this I know because obviously I had to have a piece of that cake!) I ordered caramel cheesecake! I have not had such premium tasting cheesecake in over three years ( a story for another time about when I was surrounded by some of the world’s best dessert chefs that this hemisphere has to offer). Look Out World Trinidad Chefs Are Taking Over!

(Chocolate Eruption)

(Caramel Cheesecake)

So I have finally convinced myself that the secret recipe of success is…. wait for it…. “love“. Of course not any daytime soap opera love duh! Rumour has it that some of the best culinary dishes taste better because it is made by the hands of love. Abraham’s owners love what they are doing and it should not be a secret that this love for their food and people is so overwhelming that it will always guide them to find the right staff (who feel the same way)! Undeniably, this love energy is so darn strong that it is transferred to the food and to the customers.

Rest assured many of you can relate to this. You can see and feel what I describe when you walk into Abraham’s. There is love amongst the staff working together as a team. But it does not stop there. Look around and you will see families, friends, couples and all their endless love.

So fellow restauranteurs and potential start ups while business models, sound management principles and the best education and skilled staff in the universe may help you make some waves in the food industry there is one thing that stands the test of time in any successful business….(I am going to borrow somebody’s tag line here but it is so fitting I can’t help it) ….please remember “love is all you need”.

So from the team at Let’s Go Trinidad and Tobago

We would like to say

Thank you for hosting us!

We continue to look out for better things to come!

Trader Jack’s Island Grill; My "Food – Cation"

Posted on March 4, 2014by admin

There is discovery of epicurean delights throughout Trinidad and Tobago. Some of these treasures are hidden in plain sight like Trader Jack’s Island Grill at Movietowne Port of Spain. This is a themed restaurant inspired by the legend of Trader Jack; the merchant who got lost in a hurricane and landed on a Caribbean island where he established a lucrative business trade. This is not so far fetched as this happened between the 1930’s and 40’s yet the restaurant evokes emotions of an era where his business would have been thriving, oil would have been booming and tourists would be seen cruise lining to Trinidad as depicted in the pictures in the restaurant. There are ponds with turtle, fish, trees, dried thatch like roofs for that exotic and natural island vibe. The seats, bar and dining areas are in sync with the nature isle aesthetic.

Of course, I can never make up my mind when we go out because I see and want too much! But when I saw Trader Jack’s there was no hesitation that this would be my choice. It looked like a restaurant at a resort hotel except at a multiplex which is awesome. Definitely, this is a first I have seen here in Trinidad. You need to see it to believe it too! I highly recommend it. The prices are reasonable for the high quality and great quantity of food that we ordered. The service was humble and hospitable. My most unforgettable food experience that day was Trader Jack’s for making me feel like I got to unwind and relax without leaving the country like a staycation but a “food-cation” !

The Mexican Love Affair

Posted on February 25, 2014by admin

A culinary haven can sum up foodie destination Trinidad and Tobago. We are famous for our local cuisine and our love affair with food. Creative entrepreneurs have dived into this food niche. They saw the space for opportunity in this thriving food culture business such as developing an ode to Mexican food. Similarly the consumers; tourists, visiting diaspora and locals in the domestic market reply to this growth when they literally clear their calendar for a food date!

My only advice to those of you skeptical about getting your heart broken from trying new foods is to just “do it” because you only learn from experience duh!

My first local Mexican experience was Senor Jalapeños on Ariapitha Avenue. It happened after a CLD fashion show and I was just…. hungry? Actually, I am always enthused to try out these new hot spots. I was super excited to see what they’ve done and how they captured the authenticity of Mexican culture. What a damper on my mood though as the only thing Mexican was the Jalapeño in the window and at after 9pm the food did not look as appealing and the employees seemed to be having some trouble expressing warm happy hospitality. I liked the lay out of the different condiments and dressings. The staff was informative and the general area was clean. There was no fish at that hour. The energy and vibe was dismal and I retired for the night with a bag of colourful salty chips and Pico de Gallo. Lesson for the staff if you do not believe in your product or service you cannot expect the customer to believe it either.

Next, I decided to try again at the other Mexican joint Senor Tacos on that hip strip near Grand Bazaar. Please forgive me but my travel, hospitality and tourism orientation forces me to subconsciously evaluate service organizations especially food with international standards . Hence, I am immediately spun into a tailspin of utter disappointment if low standards prevail. Anyways, back to the story. So obviously the employees didn’t seem very Latin. Next, I noticed, that there were a few sauce pots brewing. They appeared to be some sort of meat or something cooking in the back. However, I just find it unbelievable that taco shells were prepackaged in containers and boxes. Imagine my further despair when I saw that the fish was really ready made fish sticks from a bag in the refrigerator. Then my toppings that were all inclusive were regular. So I had to pay extra for a “Mexican” experience that included pickles and jalapenos taken from a jar and guacamole ready made from prepackaged container. (My Miss Piggy grunt!) Seriously! Furthermore, my pain was enhanced when they wrapped it up and put it on a warming bed. Umm no… $40TT dollars for two depressing, whole wheat tacos with extra paid for specialty toppings.

On to stop numero tres, Mr. Rango’s Cook House and Bar at Price Plaza Chaguanas. One word amazing ! Mr. Rango offers Tex Mex cuisine; a fusion of Texan and Mexican food. Hell, most of the staff speak Spanish and they have a good command of English language! Amazeballs! The branding is everywhere from floor to ceiling. table mats to their signature Rango movie character in the bathroom. Of course their slogan “food, friends and life” is captured in all their branding of menus, table mats and pepper sauce bottles. The service is attentive and quick. The dessert shelves were well stocked with decadent cakes. You can dine in or outside or take away your food. The decor, lighting, seating for take away service, bar and dining is very tastefully done. I even spotted cactus plant. Television screens surround the bar area but you can choose a more intimate setting if you want. How could I forget ! The music was pure latino vibes! Hallelujah! My friends ordered honey BBQ chicken, coconut shrimp and fries and lamb and mashed potatoes with vegetables. The presentation looked as yummy as it tasted ! On leaving, we even got a brief history of Tex Mex food and the unique fusion served at Mr. Rango’s. Talk about turning up the night a notch ♥. While the menu was a bit pricey my friends didn’t mind the trade off since great food, service and ambiance were worth the cost.

So my sour face from my choices was quite temporary.You have to do to experience and most times learn from experience . Now let me back up a bit here. I understand the three Mexican type food concessions are family(Senor Jalapenos), street (Senor Tacos) and upwardly mobile chic restaurant (Mr. Rango’s). Yet, my evaluation was based on the context of quality of food, cleanliness, taste,quality of service, aesthetics, vibes and any wow factors that left “soon come back” lasting impression. So, I’m terribly ecstatic about my new favorite Mexican food spot in Trinidad so go check it out! I hope you have as fabulous a time as I did at Mr. Rango’s

#foodloversdreamcometrue

Thank you Mr. Rango’s for truly sharing your culture not just the celebration of food, friends and life!