Category Archives: Food!

Excerpts from a (Business) Trip to San Francisco

March 8, 2018 D. Chris Klompstra 4 Comments

It’s not often that my work takes me out of town for business, but when such opportunities arise I like to take full advantage. This year I was particularly fortunate to have a client uproot from Michigan and move to the San Francisco Bay Area. And the nature of my work requires at least a day or two visit to their office. Hmmm…. I had never been to California.

My flight arrived on Sunday afternoon, so I quickly picked up my rental car and headed north into the city.

A quick word about the car, I was supposed to get a CLA250 but it wasn’t available at my arrival time. What they gave me instead was a brand new Buick Cascada convertible with a mere 257 miles on it. It was a fantastic little car for maneuvering around the city and twisty roads in the hills.

With only 3 hours until sunset, there wasn’t much to time to explore so I headed straight to Fort Mason to try for a view of the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz. It wasn’t the best vantage point, but it was a quiet place to sit, relax and reflect. The air was cool and fresh, with a calming smell that you normally get oceanside.

I also had a little time to run down to Fisherman’s Wharf for a light supper. Yes, the wharf is kind of cliche’ and a general tourist hot spot, but quite honestly I enjoyed my short time there.

Out of relative randomness I chose to eat at Lou’s Fish Shack. Well, mainly because they had a table available outside.

Not being terribly hungry I ordered a cup of dungeness crab bisque and a couple of raw oysters. This bisque was fantastic; the oysters… well, I guess I just don’t understand the point.

It wasn’t until I walked further down the strip that I realized that I missed one of the highlights of the wharf — long row of stands selling all sorts of seafood options. Crab rolls seemed to be the popular choice.

After (sort of) catching the sunset by the Golden Gate Bridge, I went on a mission to find an obscure destination that I saw on YouTube. Located inside the beautiful Fairmont Hotel, where their pool used to be, was the Tonga Room.

The Tonga Room is a large elaborate tiki bar that harkens back to the 1960’s. Corny, yet fun. A complete mismatch to the elegance of the old hotel. In the center was a lagoon (pool) with a floating stage for live performances. Although, I was too early for the band, the Tonga Room still put on a show. Every 30 minutes lights would flash, thunder would roll, and rain would fall onto the lagoon. Again, corny, but was still pretty fun.

Staying with the Polynesian theme, I ordered some tuna poke tostadas and a beef stir fry with honey and black pepper sauce. To drink… pina colada, of course. The service was great, and the food fantastic. For me, it was definitely worth the effort to find.

Each of my two work days, I found myself with 3 to 4 hours of usable sunlight to go out and get more familiar with the bay area.

View from client’s office lot

Monday, I headed for Silicon Valley to tour around the Google Corporate campus. Although it looked like a fun place to work, I was a little disappointed. I’m not really sure what I was expecting, but what I found wasn’t too impressive. Mostly it seemed like a college campus, but for 8 year olds. I did take advantage of some nice nature trails that they have for their employees.

My next idea was to drive toward the Big Basin Redwoods State Park with the hope of getting a glimpse of the majestic giants. With the sun setting quickly in the mountains I never did reach my goal, but the drive by itself was spectacular. Tearing through the winding roads at breakneck speed, testing out the tires and handling performance of my little convertible was exhilarating. It reminded me much of the times we used to shred the Smoky Mountains between Tennessee and North Carolina – but on motorcycles.

Tuesday, after a grueling day at the office, I drove up toward Half Moon Bay. A man without a plan, I often count on luck. For most of my adventures, I usually go without adequate research or forethought. It was by luck that I made a random turn and ended up at the Ritz Carlton and Half Moon Bay Golf Links.

Although I am not an avid golfer and was merely a pedestrian, it was easy to appreciate the draw to this course. The ocean to the west carved out magnificent bluffs right up to the fairways edge. A slice or hook on a few of the holes would certainly put your ball into the drink.

Here, and down the coast, I found common plants with beautiful flowers. It was difficult to pass on a couple of the photos ops.

Also, very notable in my opinion, was the fragrant aroma that ocean breeze carried off of the many clover(?) fields that lined the road. At times it was so concentrated, it smelled almost like honey.

I had to stop many times during the cruise down the Pacific coast highway; too many views and things to see made it impossible to simply drive on. Every couple of miles there seemed to be another breathtaking vista that forced me to pull off the road and hike toward cliff’s edge. I wondered if the locals here actually take for granted this stunning scenery.

Lighthouse at Pigeon Point

I had reached Santa Cruz a little before sunset and had found the place where most of the people seem to end up in the evening. Walkers, joggers, cyclists, and a few nuts and fruitcakes crowded the path along Natural Bridges State Beach.

The day ended, as so many days should end, with a few street style tacos and a chile relleno in Santa Cruz.

Although touring and exploring were not the main point of this trip, California’s bay area and coast really seemed to make business an afterthought. I look forward to my next work trip. Although, I think next time I will certainly bring Beth. 🙂

Food!, Tanzania, Travel

Tanzania – Day 4 – Transition

July 30, 2016 D. Chris Klompstra Leave a comment

Today was all about getting to Arusha, the starting point for our safari. We needed to start early to catch the ferry, to catch the cab, to catch the plane. Probably one of my least favorite places in Tanzania is the ferry dock. Huge crowds. And so many people to carry so few bags. Ten thousand shillings… ten thousand shillings… ten thousand shillings for everyone! Oh, that’s not enough? Twenty thousand shillings! I later found out that I was way over-tipping. It was difficult dealing with the onslaught of “help” so early in the morning, but we managed.

After we made the crossing to Dar es Salaam (DAR) and the mainland, we found George (our first taxi driver). It was nice seeing him waiting for us because he was quite friendly and spoke really good English. As it turned out, we had more than enough time to make our transitional flight so George took us to an upper-end hotel on the peninsula for breakfast. The crepes were excellent and the views, spectacular!

Following breakfast we took a detour through one of the more impoverished neigborhoods of DAR. Unlike the slums we are used to seeing in Detroit where the streets often seem desolate, these were packed with people and activity. It is difficult to imagine the conditions that so many have actually grown accustomed to living in.

After a long day of travel, we transitioned from the coastal region of Zanzibar and Dar es Salaam to the country’s interior on the northeast side of Tanzania. Our flight out of the old, primitive airport of DAR took us to the remote airport in Arusha. Although it is within a few minutes of the cities 1.5 million people, it certainly gave the impression that we were deep within the heart of Africa. The trip was particularly unique as it was the first flight I’ve had on a commercial twin-engine turboprop airplane that was very capable of carrying 78 deodorantly deficient people. Taylor and I laughed about how some many of these passengers must have been nicknamed “Bo”.

Our final hotel before the safari was the Mount Meru Hotel, a five-star all the way — the finest in all of Arusha. We engaged in a little downtime by the pool and then a delicious dinner at one of their fine restaurants. Dad ordered the chef’s beef stew with ugali on the side. Ugali is somewhat considered a national dish in Tanzania and is often served with beef, chicken, or fish prepared in different ways. Its essentially a thick porridge made of corn meal and has the appearance and texture of a large dumpling, perhaps. It’s taste was of bland, finely ground grits and strangely reminded us of unsalted cauliflower.

We ended the evening with a lot of emotions. Taylor was feeling homesick and missed Paul; I was missing Beth. But after a little video chat with our loved ones, we had felt better.

Food!, Tanzania, Travel

Tanzania – Day 2 – Stone Town, Zanzibar

July 23, 2016 D. Chris Klompstra 7 Comments

Having finally settled in and plowing through some really good zzz’s, Taylor and I were awoken by the 5:30 am Adhan (Islamic call to prayer) being chanted over loud speakers. I have seen and heard this though various media sources before, but never in person. Because the nearest mosque is almost directly across the street, it was really, really loud. If I lived here , I would probably need to convert to Islam so that I wouldn’t be pissed about being awoken in that manner everyday. But since I am merely a tourist in search of adventure, it was pretty damn cool.

Breakfast was served from the main hotel building down the street. My dad and I left the kids back at the apartment as they were more interested in sleep than food. It was the typical continental breakfast, except with their own Zanzibari flare. We enjoyed fresh mango, pineapple, passion fruit, local breads, and some “beef sausage”. They also had the typical omelette station. Although it was difficult to get to the regular coffee between the time it was brewed and the time it was gone, they did have a big cistern of the “local coffee”. Served in the little shot-glass sized cups much like Turkish coffee, it was a little stronger than regular coffee but had a wonderful spiced taste with hints of cinnamon and cardamom.

As the breakfast was pretty decent, the setting and views were quite spectacular. With Stone Town situated on the Western side of Zanzibar Island facing the mainland, the ocean is generally quite calm here. Along the beach are dozens of anchored small boats used for charter and fishing.

Back in the Freddie Mercury apartment at the Freddie Mercury House we spent the rest of the morning letting the kids wake up at their own pace. Oh… Freddie Mercury? A little know fact, Freddie Mercury was actually born in Stone Town, Zanzibar — the locals all seem quite proud of it. And the workers at the hotel believe that it was here, in our apartment, that he was born.

We spent much of the day wandering the streets of Stone Town taking in the sights and fending off (or trying to) the advances of anyone with something to sell.

We were able to find our way to a local market that was popular for locals and tourists alike. There, we had met a friendly young gentleman (and also his cousin) who spent the next couple of hours showing us through the market and other highlights of the town. For some reason, I was misguided into thinking they were simply being helpful and courteous, but we received a proper shakedown for cash when we were done. In total, I think I handed them about 90,000 TZ schillings ($45), but, honestly, it was actually worth every penny.

Maybe a new look for me?

I thought it was necessary to stroll through the meat and fish section of the market simply for the sensory experience. The sights of fresh meat and fish being butchered in the stalls with flies landing on pretty much everything; it really was quite unappealing and made you appreciate such agencies as the USDA and Michigan Health Department. And although the attack on the olfactory senses was direct and offensive, it actually was like a pleasant trip to Kroger as compared to what I have witnessed in Cambodia.

Following the market we were led to the East African Slave Trade Exhibit. Once again, my journeys have taken me to see some of the darker sides of humanity. The atrocities involving slavery that have taken place here and other sights throughout the world are staggering. We were taken down and shown the crowded cave-like slave chambers where as many as 75 people were stored for months until sold. Many here died in of dehydration, malnutrition and disease as they were packed so tightly they would often have to lay on top each other to sleep. To learn a little more about the East African slave trade and the exhibit click here.

Following the tour, we worked our way back toward the hotel through narrow winding streets. Here are a few of the things we had seen along the way:

OSHA approved scaffolding?

After a short rest up in the apartment and trip down to the beach for the 6:25 pm sunset we headed off toward one of my most anticipated attractions in Zanzibar — the Forodhani Gardens night food market. Essentially after night fall, dozens of food vendors come out, set up their stands, and sell all kinds of local delicacies. You could purchase skewers of chicken, beef, liver or lobster. All are served with ‘”chips” (french fries) and a squirt of homemade ketchup and hot sauce. We also found some of the best chicken shawarma I’d ever eaten.

But the one thing that I had been most excited to try was what they call Zanzibar Pizza. I certainly wouldn’t describe it as pizza, but it was really fantastic. Its prepared by spreading out a little roll of dough; filling it with various meats, vegetables; add a little mayo and an egg; stir it all together; fold over the sides and then throw it on a hot round skillet. Everyone of us would tell you, it was amazing! And for dessert, they make them with Nutella, chocolate and various fresh tropical fruits.

Food!, Local Fun

Johnny Noodle King!

November 30, 2015 D. Chris Klompstra Leave a comment

Having recently taken an adventure trip to Cambodia to experience the culture and food of Southeast Asia, Beth and I have developed a strong affinity for Asian noodle soups and other spicy dishes. Whether it’s a breakfast of glass noodles and vegetables in chicken broth or a dinner of Ramon noodles in a beef or fish stock there is something very appealing to working the chopsticks and spoon while slurping up some spicy goodness.

Watching the morning news on Saturday, Beth caught a commercial — for the news — in which the weather reporter was talking about Detroit while in a new local restaurant. In the background, people eating noodles from deep bowls using chopsticks! Instant decision… we are going downtown for Sunday’s dinner!

Located just south of the city, Johnny Noodle King was almost a stand alone restaurant in a relatively commercial district on Fort Street. No traffic getting there, but the parking lot was nearly full.

We walked in, and immediately loved the place. A little rough around the edges, yet hip and clean. We quickly determined that we were probably the oldest people in the joint.

Perusing the menu, we found a great selection of Asian inspired noodle dishes and soups all at reasonable prices. We made our choices while enjoying some hot green tea on the cold fall night.

We ordered their bun de jour as an appetizer to split — a steam bun with porkbelly, jalapeños, hoisen and bean sprouts. Fantastic! By the well thought out combination of flavors, it was obvious that those who’ve created the menu were well rounded and trained chefs.

For our entrees, we chose the Pho Ga and the Pad Si U. The Pho Ga was a brothy noodle soup, subtle in taste with fresh flavors from the cilantro, basil and lime. I’m certain to have also tasted some ginger in there. The Pad Si U was bold and beefy with rich flavors of garlic and soy sauce. The thick rice noodles were al dente, but appropriately so. As Beth and I share most meals for the sake of variety, she ultimately preferred the Pho Ga, while I sided with the Pad Si U.

As a fresh concept dedicated to Asian inspired noodles, Johnny Noodle King is a terrific idea for a casual meal in a hip environment. Certainly worth the trip. For hours, location, and other information click here: JohnnyNoodleKing.com

Cambodia, Food!, Travel

Cambodia – Day 2 – Relaxation

November 8, 2015 D. Chris Klompstra 1 Comment

The morning brought about new sense of calm. Away from the bustle of Phnom Penh where it had seemed as though everyone was in a damned hurry to get somewhere; here was much different. A half dozen resort employees work dilegently to clean the beach loungers, rake the sand, sweep the floors, and prepare the breakfast buffet. High pitched beeping of horns in the city were replaced by the soft whir of pineapple and watermelon being juiced behind the bar.

Breakfast was typical of what could be found at most beach resorts: fresh local fruits, bread for toasting, various jams, omelette station. Fried rice and Asian salad were also an option.

Easing into the day, it seemed necessary to slip into the warm waters of the Pacific. Clear, salty, and soothing, I felt as though I could spend all day out there. The floor was soft sand that had a gentle wavy texture. The gradual slope required you to walk out a couple hundred feet in order to get your hair wet.

Relaxing on the beach has always been easy for me… ha! maybe for about ten minutes. Beth, being a little better at it, has always suggested that I read a book. Uh, no. I can’t sit still long enough to become engrossed in a book. I did, however, find that writing was a little more entertaining for me; at least for a while.

Strolling up and down the beaches were an array of local people selling there wares. Kids sold bracelets and other trinkets. Young men sold sunglasses and boat tour packages. And middle aged women sold a variety of goods and services. “Massage for you?” “Maybe pedicure?” And my particular favorite that 2 different women approached Beth regarding, “Maybe I take care of the hair on your legs?” Although it wasn’t terribly apparent to my eyes, two days without a razor (missing luggage) and I was married to a Sasquatch!

Around lunch time: fresh fruit, prawns, and other more unusual things.

Since nothing being toted by seemed to suit our fancy, we opted for the restaurant at the Secret Garden Resort… again. At this point, it is probably our favorite in the Otres 2 area.

View from our porch.

It is difficult to express how cool it is to have an outside bathroom. Although completely private, using the toilet took a little getting used to. To shower out there was an amazing experience that felt totally natural. Beth is thinking on how this can be duplicated and yet be more acclimated to Michigan weather.

A trip into SV in the Ochheuteal Beach region took us to the Monkey Republic. As many restaurants and bars were quite empty, we chose this place simply by the number of patrons.

Monkey Republic was a total backpacker hangout. A crowd that consists of mostly young Australians and some Europeans sitting around drinking Angkor Beer, smoking Marlboro Reds and socializing with others. It was difficult to not be too envious of their free spirits.

As I often do, I ordered way too much food. Brought out to outside table one dish at a time in an “auction style” manner, we had gotten the Chicken Amok, Sweet and Sticky Ribs, and of the fried spring rolls. Spring rolls can be found at nearly every Cambodian restaurant and are offered 2 ways: fresh or fried. We’ve learned that fried is definitely the way to go.

Flying, Food!, Other Fun

Put-in-Bay Day Trip

September 26, 2015 D. Chris Klompstra 2 Comments

Since earning my private pilot license, I have longed for unusual (and convenient) destinations to fly into. Sure the act of piloting a small plane and looking out the window is enjoyable, but what really gets me excited is the mission to make a destination and the journey that it entails. Put-in-Bay is the perfect destination for short day trip in search of food and fun. Although a bit more pricey than the term “hundred dollar hamburger”, the Lake Erie island is a relatively affordable destination. In less than an hour after takeoff, you land on a small piece off paradise that completely takes you out of the ordinary.

Yesterday, was nearly a perfect day for an early fall flight with my good friend, Heather. Although bit breezy, the sun provided enough warmth to make the illusion that summertime was still here.

A short golf cart ride to The Keys, Put-in-Bay for some tropical fare that transports you to almost any island destination that you want to imagine.

Grouper Rueben, Chicken Oscar, piña colada, and ginger beer were the choices of the day.

Having gotten the priorities out of the way, it was time to do a little exploring on the way back to the airport. I heard that Heather was a fan of geodes…

A visit to the Crystal Cave at Heienman’s Winery was our next stop. Here you can go down INTO and explore what they call “the world’s largest” geode.

Following a quick pre-flight inspection of the plane, we were off and heading north over Lake Erie. Sunsets at 6,500 feet are almost always more spectacular than what can be caught in a photograph.

Because of the rapidly fading daylight, we extended our return leg past Marine City to capture some of the beauty from the lights of Port Huron and the St. Clair River.

Our Extraordinary Ordinary Life