Quijote's Mexican Grill ~ Colorado Springs, Colorado

Latest visit: Mar 2024

First visit: Apr 2018

Back at Quijote's for the first time this year, much later than usual. As noted below, we used to come here often. Before the pandemic at least twice a month, but now maybe twice a year. I did take Mr. Music here last April, and that was the last time I'd been. Mrs. RJG and I were craving a spicy Mexican breakfast, so we made the pilgrimage down south for some yummy green chile - mine burying a burrito, hers the chile relleno. Mrs. RJG said it wasn't as good this time, something about the cheese not tasting right. Mine was the same as always, super great. Chips and salsa were good as well. Quijote's used to be packed on a Saturday morning, but we were the only ones there today. And even though they too have had to raise their prices, they're still cheaper than everywhere else. Doesn't matter, too far from zero for most folks to afford. Once competition reenters the markets, we should see some normalization to all of this. But until then, it's survival of the fittest. If the below updates aren't clear enough, do not miss going to Quijote's and trying their spicy green.

---2/18/23 update

Back again for our annual review. Last year's note said nothing more than still our favorite restaurant in Colorado Springs. And that could suffice here too, but I'll add a little more color this time. Since we were last here, they reopened their breakfast / lunch space on the north side of their (rather large) building. They also gussied it up and made it more sleek. We also noticed the calming jazz music. Perhaps someone mentioned the B Street Cafe? All restaurants should take note of this. Ditch the annoying pop music. On this visit, I went with the ham breakfast burrito smothered in spicy green. That chile is arguably the best in town - and certainly one of the hottest. I probably will go back to bacon next time as the salty meat penetrates better the acute flavor of the chile. Mrs. RJG had a chile relleno smothered in the same green along with a side of rice. We were both crying at the end. Because we were sad that it was over? Maybe. Well, you know why. We don't come to Quijotes as much as we used to, or would like to. Part of that is they're not open on Sundays, as they were when we first moved here. And our Saturday schedule tends to fill up. But on this gloomy and cold Saturday, it seemed the perfect antidote. Oh - and it's still the cheapest meal in the Springs. Glad my readership here in the Springs is still light - because there should be a line around the door. 

---original 1/30/21 review

If there was ever a reason to restart the RJG, it's been Quijotes. As you can see, the first visit goes back to April 2018, and that's because we were here to do our new home "walk through". Sort of a pain in the butt (not to mention expensive), as we had to fly from DFW to do this. Oh well, not one to complain, the RJG is always up for trying new restaurants when traveling. For whatever reason, all the hotels up north were sold out or super expensive, so we stayed south by the airport. Mrs. RJG and I knew it was going to be a long day, so why not enjoy an old school Colorado Mexican breakfast on the way north. But where? A quick search suggested Quijotes might be our kind of place. We've been going back ever since.... It's not around the corner, but who cares? Honestly nothing is that far in Colorado Springs. It's not like going from White Settlement to Wylie in DFW.

So what's the draw here? Smothered burritos (as if you have to ask). And, in particular, their hot green. They have a mild one, which isn't to our taste honestly. But the hot is seriously spicy. Like crazy-I-can't-believe-you-can-get-this-at-a-restaurant hot. And super flavorful, which is required given the heat level. We have never tasted anything like this chile - ever, anywhere. And we seek this stuff out! I usually get the egg and bacon breakfast burrito. And it's unbelievably low priced. Not only is this the best food in town - it's the cheapest! Mrs. RJG will sometimes get the huevos rancheros buried in the same green sauce to much glee and delight. Oh, and the salsa that comes with the chips is great too (chips aren't free, but you have extra money to burn here).  Everywhere we live - or travel to - we find a favorite. And with almost 3 full years in Colorado Springs, Quijotes is ours! Not much else to say about that.

The location is split into 2 dining rooms - one is a small area that primarily was used during the week to handle sit down and to-go customers. In what has to be considered a genius business decision, they also opened up a large space that was to be used as a karaoke bar and dance floor for the weekend evenings. Well guess what? That's now their primary sitting area, and it's spacious so as to handle the pandemic regulations. Good things happen to good people. Oh, the ladies who own and work here are wonderful. Tough as nails, but sweet as pie too. Go here.

4/20/18; 1/25/20; 7/3/20; 1/30/21 (new entry); 3/5/22; 2/18/23; 3/30/24

Taste of Philly ~ Colorado chain: Colorado Springs

Latest visit: Mar 2024 (Voyager)

First visit: Aug 2011 (Denver - Colorado Blvd.)

Locations: 19 total (+2 from last year); 6 in Colorado Springs (+1); 10 in the Denver metro area (+1), and 1 each in Loveland, Greeley, and Fort Collins.

Back for our first visit of 2024, though I did sneak in a few extra ones last year given their proximity to Casa RJG. On this visit I was feeling traditional and got a philly cheese "wit wiz" as they call it. Which is backwards, as it should be "wiz wit" in Philadelphia jargon. I told them that once and was met with a blank stare. OK then, moving on. They asked if I also wanted white cheese with it and I said sure (75 cents that move cost me). I was also starving and went for the full footlong versus the usual 9 inch. Grabbed the sack to go, and unraveled the sandwich while watching a TV show (The Regime on HBO for those interested) during my lunch break from work. I supplied my own drink (Coke Zero). The size of the sandwich allowed me to pass on chips. Everything was perfect as noted below. Hot temperature, chewy bread, flavorful diced meat, gooey cheese. As reliable as they come in this day and age. We'll keep coming back.

---4/20/23 update

Alrighty finally back to our favorite Philly Cheesesteak place. But why the wait? Ah... well, they just opened across the street from us! In the same shopping center as Zapata and Zesty Thai. And what that means is more visits from the RJG. They had a soft open earlier in the year but had to shutdown temporarily due to some fire code issues. Those have been all fixed up, and we're good to go. We'd been to this exact address before, since it hosted a pizza place called Duca's. The chain still exists but in another location in Colorado Springs. I want to try again, but we didn't enjoy the one outing here (and it's not in the RJG). In any event, they reorganized the space quite well. 

Mrs. RJG joined me on this venture, continuing our win theme on experiences. Right from the get, I was happy to see they have this setup as an order at the counter versus a full serve restaurant, like the South Academy location below. This kind of food calls for quick service, even if the other wasn't slow by any means. We each ordered the Green Chile Philly. I haven't gone enough to explore the menu, but that's going to change this year I think. Wow - this is really great! Everything is better here than at the other location we used to frequent - and we loved that one too! The meat was piled high, the fries were crispy and flavorful, and the bread was both crispy and chewy, just as a good Philly calls for. Even the soda fountain drink mix was great. A+ from us. If you live far north like us, this a must stop. Go here.

Contrary to my original post, they do now seem more like a consolidated chain.

---3/25/22 update

For some reason I forgot to update this for its annual review that occurred 2 months ago. Well as you can see, it passed with flying colors. And while service has been a problem at so many restaurants, I had no such issues on this visit. The highest standards were met. This remains our favorite Philly cheesesteak spot in the Springs.

Taste of Philly has 4 locations in Colorado Springs and 11 others in the Denver / Fort Collins / Greeley metro areas.

---original 2/15/20 review

Over the years the RJG has covered many Philly cheesesteak places, including being a constant booster in the DFW area of places like Billadelphia's and Fred's Downtown Philly. Our first experience with Philly cheesesteaks goes back to Philadelphia itself, with business trips starting in 1999. But I have to say the best of them all is right here at Taste of Philly in Colorado Springs. Or to be more specific, this location on South Academy is our favorite. And I have to admit to veering away from Philly standards such as "Wiz Wit", though I've had that here as well. The two things that Taste of Philly always gets right - toasty but chewy bread (this is key) and sizzling hot chopped beef with grilled onions blended in (not oily and plopped on top nasty style). We've taken it even further and love their Green Chile cheesesteak - that's Colorado for you! And recently I even tried their pizza cheesesteak with some wonderful gooey provolone cheese and a piquant tomato sauce. It's sit down service or you can order at the counter to-go. One of the first post-lockdown places we visited that seemed comfortable to eat inside (i.e. no "leper table" feeling).

Taste of Philly is one of those disparate chains that doesn't share ownership and are loosely branded together. This is important to note as our first experience with Taste of Philly goes to Denver, which shares the name but not necessarily the same quality. Though we were always pleased there as well (south Colorado Blvd location - which is the original and still there). But for our pesos, we prefer this location (even though it's not even close to our cow pasture). In addition there's an ARC thrift store next door, so there's that incentive as well...

8/21/11; 2/15/20 (new entry); 1/30/21; 3/25/22; 4/20/23; 3/29/24

Front Range Barbeque ~ Colorado Springs, Colorado

First visit: Mar 2024

I was in the mood to try something new, and Front Range was a place I had on my priority list. Sitting on the outskirts of Old Colorado City, Front Range is a funky place that fits perfectly with the neighborhood. Once you step in, you will be greeted by a hostess to sit you down. Good, I can be served and leave a tip the proper way. This is one of those buildings that looks like a DIY make-it-up-as-you-go-along places. I even got a Sante Fe vibe while wandering around. They have a covered patio section that allows for live music mostly in the evenings. My friendly waitress came by and I knew what I wanted by looking at the online menu prior: The Sloppy Pig. This was apparently featured on Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives, and it's obvious as to why once you see it. They describe it as thus: Tender-smoked pulled Pork, grilled Kielbasa Sausage, smoked pepper bacon topped with Sweet n’ Spicy BBQ, smoked cheddar cheese, spicy cole slaw, pickles and onion straws on our toasted sweet potato bun.

Well - look at that would ya ----> 

There was a family nearby who laughed when they saw it and said "good luck in eating that". I was in agreement, but I decided to try for it. It compacted nicely though and I was able to chow down with bites. I did pull some meat out to try their two different sauces. Their Sweet n' Spicy is super tasty, the original is boring by comparison. What a great sandwich. Wonderful mix of sauces, meats, and spices. Perhaps even better is that Red Beans and Rice you see there. That's the best I've had in town. It's one of the best I've ever had. Definitely spicy too, which added points. I could see myself craving this side dish. They have so many other items I want to try. Next time I'm bringing Mrs. RJG with me. She doesn't always like to try places (unless we're traveling), so I usually do the recon. This one worked out.

They also make a point to bring in different craft beers, and their selection was definitely researched. I tried a Mexican lager from Bristol this time. Something light and thirst quenching. Worth mentioning that the service was friendly and prompt. I should also state that when I arrived it was sparsely attended, but when I left it was mostly full in the main dining rooms. That's a good sign.

A completely different experience than Mission, but we now have two reliable places to go to in the Springs. In the RJG rotation goes Front Range.

3/24/24 (new entry)

Slice 420 ~ Colorado Springs, Colorado

Latest visit: Mar 2024

First visit: Feb 2023

This is the Oro Blanco locale. They have a second location in Old Colorado City, which is the original.

I'm back for only my second visit to Slice 420. I was diligent in reading my notes before going in, and because of that, I only had one slice of pizza this time. I went again with the Mountain Man, and it was exactly as I remembered it, perhaps a bit too much grease this go round. Could still go for some more sauce too. I did go with a fountain soda too, settling on Diet Pepsi, which was mixed properly. Once again, prices are getting to the unsustainable phase. One slice and one drink = ~$11 and they do ask for the unearned tip, which they didn't get from me. Friendly management and service though. It seems service has distinctly improved within the last year while prices have skyrocketed. I don't blame the restaurants, it's not their fault either. As such, I was the only person there on a Friday at lunch. Last year when I was here, it was packed. The food quality hasn't dipped at all, so it's pretty clear folks can't afford these frivolities anymore. The further we get from zero, the less people can participate. Let's hope for an end to this. And soon.

---original 2/3/23 review

While Mrs. RJG was enjoying Aroi Thai, I too was out and about running errands in the city. It was lunch time and I was just leaving the American Classics Marketplace (haha - must have just missed her!). I was running a little late and I was also starving. I wanted to try something new, and I had pizza on the mind. Up popped Slice 420 nearby - perfect that's what I want, a couple of slices of New Yawk pizza.

Unbeknownst to this square, 420 is an urban slang marijuana reference. Apparently it means to meet up at 4:20 in the afternoon somewhere and smoke some weed. As most folks know, Colorado was one of the pioneers in the USA to legalize cannabis. In some areas of the state, recreational hash is legal, but here in the Springs it's strictly medical. And where we reside (way up north), there's absolutely zero commerce for weed. But in the center of the city, there's plenty if you're so inclined. The RJG is not - beer and wine is fine for me. Perhaps if I grew up later - but in my era there was a stigma attached to it. But I've never had an issue with it - and most of my music friends were pretty active in that space. I was always fine with legalizing it.

I bring all of this up - because 420 indeed does reference cannabis, but maybe not what you think. They make it very clear they do not infuse cannabis into their pizza. The reference comes from the fact that they moved to Colorado from Florida to treat their young daughter with cannabis - and it worked! So they wanted to give back to the community. So if you're pregnant or a federal officer who is subject to frequent drug testing - you're safe! :-) 

Now let's get to why I'm here - I'm hungry! What I like about Slice 420 is not only do they have pizza by the slice - but they offer at least 10 specialty pizzas that you can try. Not just the usual cheese and add a cheap topping before they throw it in the oven (again). That is a winning idea! I ordered two gigantic slices, and they proudly proclaim to be of the New York pizza variety. This is one of those places where one slice will have you leaving slightly hungry and two slices slightly too full. Next time I probably will just get one. But fine, I fattened up in a hurry. My two choices were the Mountain Man which is loaded with meats. Not just the garden variety ones either, and I remember the sausage being chewy even, which I liked. And a traditional margherita slice with cheese and basil. You order up and they'll bring it to you. Both my slices came piping hot. The crust was perfect - crispy and chewy. You can fold it down the middle to capture all that grease. The only complaint - and it's familiar one with the RJG - is not enough sauce. And in this case, maybe not enough tasty sauce. It's forgivable though, and maybe my next visit will yield a different result. Looking forward to trying Slice 420 again soon!

2/3/23 (new entry); 3/22/24

Bingo Burger ~ Colorado Springs, Colorado

Latest visit: Mar 2024

First visit: Feb 2022

The original is in Pueblo.

Time for our annual checkup to Bingo Burger. On this visit, only my 3rd, Mrs. RJG wanted to join me. I was careful to steer her away from anything that might be a sloppy mess. So she built her own cheeseburger, and kept the sauces to the side. She really enjoyed the chile infused hamburger (cooked well done per order) as well as the chile dusted fries. She wasn't keen on the potato bun stating it was a bit too doughy for her liking. I tried something different too - and less saucy - The Steel City. This features thick cut bacon and a Dijonnaise condiment. And I dug into Mrs. RJG's fries. I thought the burger was delicious and far less messy than I'd had prior from them. Fries were great too. Looks like they removed the Fort Carson Burger (see original review), which is a bummer. I asked Mrs. RJG where Bingo Burger lands in local choices. She said Top 5, though last week's Wayback Burgers has become the new gold standard.

---3/26/23 update

This is only my second time to Bingo Burger, the first is detailed below. On this visit I asked if they had something like a "Pueblo Slopper" given that's the home roots of the restaurant and they're all about Pueblo chiles. The answer was no because they mix the meat with the chile rather than douse with a green chili. That's what they call Bingo Beef. Got it! I almost ordered what I did last year, but the BOM (Burger of the Month) looked cool, so I went with that instead. They call it the Fightin' Irish Burger (for St. Pat's Day I'm to guess) and they define it as the following: "Bingo Beef, corned beef, Irish whiskey chile cheese sauce, caramelized onions, pueblo chiles, pueblo chile dusted tots". Well there you go. I ordered it medium well and everything came out to order. Thick juicy spicy burger with great flavor. Mrs. RJG would not go for this at all. And I did notice that while the top of the bun was toasted, the bottom wasn't. Doesn't matter to me, but that's a pet peeve of the Mrs. Maybe my favorite local hamburger?

---original 2/14/22 review

And here I am stuffing my face again with a big ol' hamburger. It wasn't the original plan. I just wanted a couple of slices of pizza to give me some nutrients to get through the day. But the place I attempted to try doesn't have slices on the weekend - boo! Well I'm downtown, and very close to where I was last week when first sighting the Skirted Heifer. Walk across Bijou and let's try Bingo Burger.

Nice and spacious place that goes pretty deep in the back. Order at the counter. They then proceed to hand you your "bingo number", and they'll deliver the meal to your table. The angle here is all about the Pueblo chile. Well sign me up then! I went with the Fort Carson, described as thus: "Bingo beef, thick cut bacon,  Pueblo chile cheese sauce, golden tots, extra Pueblo chiles". Bingo Beef is ground beef mixed with the chiles before cooking. With all those chiles, no way I could go wrong. And that proved to be true - and spicy. Of course the burger was huge, which happens when the patty sits atop tater tots! The cheese sauce ensured it would be a giant sloppy mess. No way the Mrs. would have enjoyed it, but I had a good time in solitude. Though to use her primary criteria, the burger was perfectly cooked and delicious, and the bun was toasty. But she's not a "big 'ol hamburger" kinda gal. In addition, I really went down the tubes and had to try the soda fountain, and enjoyed a real cane sugar cola. Whew, it was fun to have again, but I probably shouldn't do that. I tried their diet as well, but it wasn't very good. 

I gained weight this week...

Bingo Burger started in Pueblo (still operating), born from the Chile Festival. They are all about "local Colorado", just as we are. Overall, an excellent burger alternative when in downtown.

2/14/22 (new entry); 3/26/23; 3/17/24

Phoebe's Diner ~ Austin, Texas

12001 Burnet Rd, Suite 3 D, Austin, TX 78758 - 12 Mar 23

Looking for a decent breakfast near the Domain - an area I kinda hate - this place showed up as a bit more interesting and lived up to billing. There appear to be 3 locations around Austin - qualifies as a regional chain or 'limited locations'. My location was Gracy Farms - about a mile out of the shit-show open mall they call the Domain. I went for the chicken & biscuit with eggs and a side of gravy with a bloody mary. Chicken was good - but I'm never as impressed with the boneless breast for some reason. Not as juicy as real quartered chicken for some reason (also easier to prepare, I'm sure). But this was pretty good. Gravy was good - peppery - and there was a side of pepper jam that was quite good. Particularly excellent were the potatoes - very crunchy, flavorful and go great with the gravy. Only negative - and the reason for the bloody - was beer (singular) selection. That's right, one beer on tap (none in can or bottle). And it was Dos Equis lager; couldn't they at least go negra? I'd go back but will recommend they add a beer or 10.

- Rude Dante review

Workhorse Bar ~ Austin, Texas

100 E North Loop Blvd, Austin, TX 78751

Met same nephew who turned me on to Silver Medal here for a bite and a beverage while in town 11 Mar 23. I went for the burger special - a classic bacon cheeseburger with sweet potato fries - with an Austin Amber (on tap) to wash it down. It was a warm spring-ish day in Austin - highs in the 70s - so we sat on the patio and enjoyed a bit of vitamin D. Burger was solid - not huge, not gourmet, just good - and chased it with a Lakewood brewing Goddess Hazy IPA (ed: I miss Lakewood from our DFW daze). Was tempted to either go for another beer but was driving someone else's rental car so thought better of it. Mos def worth a return visit - next time I am in town.

- Rude Dante review

Colorado City Creamery ~ Colorado Springs, Colorado

Latest visit: Mar 2024

First visit: Summer of 1994

As we were heading home from Florence, Mrs. RJG inexplicably wanted ice cream. Really? We'd already gone to our favorite Josh and John's this year, so let's revisit our other fave in town: Colorado City Creamery. We arrived not long before their closing hour of 6. We were both surprised to see a line out the door. Looks like it was going to be difficult to close on time. In any case, as we wandered through that line, we both zeroed in on the Pikes Peak Trail flavor. Basically a mix of chocolate, vanilla, and tiny peanut butter cups. Waffle cone, one scoop. And we wandered Old Colorado City with our treats (most everything was closed by then, but that's OK). Absolutely delicious and a great way to end an excellent day.

---original 2/20/23 review

What? I've never written about Colorado City Creamery until now? Talk about an oversight. Not sure how that happened honestly. Though it's true, we didn't go here once last year for no particularly good reason. And I do remember the circumstance of my last visit in August of 2021. You can read the Pho-nomenal review for those unnecessary details. So that may have contributed to my negligence.

As you can see I've been coming here since my first tour of duty in Colorado Springs. Even when we lived in Denver - or DFW - and visited the Springs, it wasn't uncommon for us to go to Colorado City Creamery for a scoop of their delicious ice cream. They've been around since the 1980s, and during the summer, there's often a line around the block filled with tourists and locals alike. You can't miss the location: Sitting in a cute old house slightly recessed off the main drag, with its bright yellow and white colors. And the ice cream is homemade and delicious.

After Phantom Canyon, Mrs. RJG's inner 8-year-old came out and she wanted ice cream. She can easily skip beer, but ice cream is a much stronger gravitational pull for the Mrs. And on a windy February President's Day, there are no crowds to worry about. On this visit they had just finished putting out a brand new bucket of chocolate. So we both went for a cup of that (small - slightly more than one scoop). I think Mrs. RJG is still recovering from her Sugarlump experience lol. It was just slightly soft and oh-so-creamy. And tasty as always. I tend to be a Josh and John's guy myself, but Colorado City Creamery is a close second. With the added bonus that you can walk around Old Colorado City while enjoying your ice cream. If you're from out of town, you'll likely end up here as a matter of logistics alone.

1994; 9/28/18; 8/1/21; 2/20/23 (new entry); 3/10/24

Quincys Tavern ~ Colorado chain : Florence

Latest visit: Mar 2024 (Florence)

First visit: Jun 2023 (Monte Vista)

Locations: Quincys currently operates in 5 mountain towns: Monte Vista, Florence, Buena Vista, Leadville, and Salida.

Mrs. RJG and I have now added Florence as a biannual getaway destination. It's a great place to wander around and browse through the antique shops. We both usually come home with a few things, though it's a fairly sad situation overall. The town was mostly empty on this beautiful Sunday afternoon, and the wares on sale are mainly unwanted and overpriced. No one seems too eager to offer discounts, so it's more like a living museum than a real marketplace.

As noted below, Florence is the first time we became aware of Quincys. We didn't eat there, but had our first occurrence in the more lively town of Monte Vista. One month later, we also tried their location in Leadville. A much larger space, it was also a popular dining destination. Because we were there on a Saturday night, we tried their prime rib, which is also excellent.

Both of us, however, prefer the filet mignon dinner, and Sunday night is one of the five nights they have that selection on offer. Recall that Quincys only has one meal per night, which plays a major role in keeping their prices down. It appears they've raised those prices $2 since we last checked in. Either that or Florence is more expensive than Monte Vista, but probably not. All the same, Quincys remains the best deal in all of Colorado - perhaps the nation. We arrived at open which is at 3:30 on Sunday. We were starving and planned for this to be our primary meal of the day, having only a light breakfast prior. The restaurant was still about half empty when we left over an hour later. Though it's likely to have eventually filled up. The location here is larger than Monte Vista, and about the same as Leadville. They have two dining areas in Florence's locale.

I didn't mention this prior, but the wedge salad is also excellent. One big chunk of cold and crisp iceberg lettuce, with a very nice ranch and Dijon sharp dressing. And it includes a wonderful slice of fresh French bread. The potato and steak came out cooked to order and were delicious. The Florence location doesn't offer anything in the way of craft beers, other than New Belgium brands. But better than nothing, as we were both thirsty by the time we got there.

---original 6/18/23 review (Monte Vista)

From Three Sisters, we drove to Alamosa and walked the campus of Adams State University while enjoying an ice cream cone from a local gas station. It was a beautiful day, though a bit windy which set off Mrs. RJG's allergies. From there we headed to our ultimate destination of Del Norte. However the restaurant we'd circled was closed on Sunday, and nothing else looked that great, so we backtracked to Monte Vista, a nice looking old town that deserves a walk around.

We'd first seen a Quincys (no apostrophe) while in Florence, not realizing it was a small mountain town chain. They advertise insanely low prices for steaks. We've been in the mood for that lately, so let's give it a whirl. It's Father's Day, so we figured it might get crowded, so we went not long after opening at 4:30. Sure enough, it was packed, and since we didn't have reservations, only the bar was available to us. That's not a problem for me - though sometimes the Mrs. doesn't like that option. But she was already sitting down by the time I was thinking about it. Haha.

The restaurant's environment couldn't be better. Sitting inside an old historical building with square copper ceilings, dark interior, and a long wooden bar. They don't have taps, but do offer local beers in a can. We started with 2 glasses of Riesling, and eventually moved to beer. The menu is incredibly simple: Filet Mignon with a baked potato and a "wedge salad". If you don't want that, then you get nothing to eat. On Friday and Saturday's they offer prime rib as an alternate. If you're a vegetarian, don't go here. There's nothing here for you (except the potato and salad). And the price of a 6 ounce filet? $14. Are you kidding me? In 2023? I went 9 ounces for $3 more. I haven't seen prices like that in 30 years for a steak. I guess the simplicity of the menu allows for them to keep costs in line. And the best part? It's a delicious steak. Mrs. RJG loved it too. Like The Ranch House rather than K-Bob's to bring in a couple of current examples. This is the best deal in Colorado. Go here.

6/18/23 (new entry); 3/10/24

Monte Vista; Leadville; Florence

Wayback Burgers ~ national chain : Woodland Park, Colorado

First visit: Mar 2024

HQ: Cheshire, CT; Founded in 1991 (Newark, DE)

Locations: Wayback is nationwide, but lightly populated. It's difficult to calculate how many total they have. They have 2 stores in Colorado, the other in Englewood / Denver. Looks like they have 5 in DFW with Avondale being the closest from our old home in Keller. Haven't even heard of Avondale prior, but it's on US-287 on the way northwest to Rhome. 

Back on home turf, and Mrs. RJG and I decided a short drive into the mountains would be in order. Especially on this cold, crisp, beautiful clear blue sky day. Woodland Park is our closest true mountain town, and it makes for a nice getaway. I had heard that Wayback Burgers were going to open there, and it appears they did that five or six months ago. Apparently they used to be here in the Springs at some point, but I don't remember the name, and this is my first experience with the restaurant. The chain started as Jake's Hamburgers and I had wondered if it was the same brand that we knew in DFW. Nope, that's a different setup (Jake's Burgers and Beer). Perhaps that's why they changed their name ("rebranded" in corporate speak). There's no alcohol here, strictly a family oriented fast food joint. This is one of those chains that attempts to regain the "the way things used to be." As my dad always appended "...and probably never were."

Wayback Burgers sits in a strip center, with a very confusing parking lot situation. Once you get settled, walk in, and order at the counter. I went for the Cheesy with lettuce and mustard. And a Pistachio milkshake. Mrs. RJG got a single cheeseburger with cheese, lettuce, pickles, onions, and mustard. Plus fries and a drink.

I have to say this is one of the most flavorful hamburgers I've ever had. The meat is extremely tasty. If you get the Cheesy as is, it comes with two oversized beef patties and extra slices of cheese. The bread is served almost Patty Melt style with two flat topped and toasty buns. I received plenty of envious stares from Mrs. RJG, whose hamburger was more standard. She stated the same as me though, that the flavor of the burger was insanely good. She asked for light mustard and they squirted too much on there, but otherwise she was happy. The hand cut potato fries were excellent as well. The pistachio shake almost seemed more like a vanilla shake with chocolate whip cream. It wasn't very green nor pistachio-y in flavor. But I still enjoyed the heck out of it :-). Mrs. RJG even boldly declared she was coming to Woodland Park on her own during the mid week to have them for lunch again. She probably won't, but we for certain will be back next year, if not sooner.

3/9/24 (new entry)

Woodland Park, Colorado;

Sammy's Beach Bar & Grill ~ national chain : Las Vegas, Nevada

First visit: Mar 2024

Locations: 4 total. All in airports including Honolulu, Maui, and Cleveland. Mensa quiz: Which of these four do not fit the sequence?

The next day we had our big event, which I'll not mention to preserve some sort of anonymity. So the next dining experience would have to be at the Las Vegas airport on the final day. I already knew that Las Vegas has one of the worst food selections of any airport in America. But I didn't want to be hauling luggage and a laptop to another restaurant and then feel rushed to get to the airport. So I took my chances. After wandering around the A and B gates aimlessly - I cannot for the life of me understand why there aren't any bar / food type restaurants here, other than they'd rather you gamble than drink - I decided to take a hike to the C gate. At least here they offer more than just fast food options. I don't recall Sammy's prior, but what an oasis in a sea of nothingness.

Sammy is none other than Sammy Hagar. Yea, that guy. Long past fronting Ronnie Montrose, his own namesake group, and Van Halen, Hagar has proven to also be a good businessman. 

I hate to say it, but this was the best sit down meal I had all week. I can't recall another time when I said that about an airport restaurant. Especially this airport. I was very pleased with my rather large bacon cheeseburger. Great flavor and it came out steaming hot and cooked perfectly. The fries were ample and tasty as well. Only grump is they don't have a single Nevada beer within a decent sized craft collection. That doesn't make sense. C'mon Sammy - get local man! So I enjoyed a New Belgian Hazy IPA, something I can get here all day long. But I was thirsty and needed to wind down. So it worked out...

3/7/24 (new entry)

Las Vegas

Sushisamba ~ international chain : Las Vegas, Nevada

First visit: Mar 2024 (Venetian)

Locations: 5 total including two in London, and one each in Dubai and Doha.

If there's ever a restaurant that doesn't have my name on it, it's Sushisamba. It's interesting to me that I don't gravitate to these glitzy type of venues. My peers were thrilled, and couldn't wait to go. It was another vendor sponsored dinner, so one needs to be gracious. I survived the experience, but I do struggle with the reputation of these places. I was most excited about trying the "samba" portion of the menu. Having been and worked in Brazil and Peru before, I quite love the food of this part of South America. As noted on these pages prior, I can live without the sushi just fine. But I kept an open mind. It was my hope I could order off the menu, but no such luck. The meal was pre-planned as it was a much larger group than I had anticipated - or had been told. I'll be positive and state that I did enjoy the crispy taquitos Japanese Kobe and the Churrasco Rio Grande (aka meat platter) with ribeye, chorizo, and wagyu picanha. Some of the sushi was fine like the crab rolls. I avoided anything that was raw. I'm sure I would have been fine, but work conferences are not the place to introduce foods like that to your body. Nonetheless this isn't my food of choice to begin with. For cocktails, seems mixed drinks were a hit, and wine was OK. I stuck to beer, and the craft option was Lagunitas IPA, and that's it. So I had three of those. Service was excellent considering the large group. The loud atmosphere was typical of these places. Like the tapas place we went to in San Diego for one of my niece's wedding event, the Regular Joe's Guide is not your go-to read for restaurants such as these. But if you want to be with-it, and have a fistful of dollars to burn, then Sushisamba would be a safe bet. Most of those I spoke with enjoyed it. I liked it fine enough (and remain grateful for these opportunities), but there's no way I'd go here on my own or with Mrs. RJG. 

3/6/24 (new entry)

Las Vegas

La Cave Wine and Food Hideaway ~ Las Vegas, Nevada

Wynn Hotel

First visit: Mar 2024

Dinner was uncertain on this fine Monday night, but partners were holding events throughout the area for our company. One of them hosted here at La Cave, and that ended up being my meal, though that wasn't clear until I found myself done for the night lol. Though I did not have a sit down experience, I have a pretty good idea of the type of food La Cave offers. Mostly high end entrees including pizzas, steak, cheeses, appetizers, etc... We had a serving table, so I could sample plenty. I tried their signature rare sirloin steak among other things. I thought it a nice change of pace, and very flavorful. If Mrs. RJG had been with me, she would have insisted we leave immediately lol. Just the visual alone would disgust her. I tried enough to know La Cave would be a fine place for a relatively quiet dinner, presuming you don't have an event like we did in the back room creating havoc. Obviously it's an expensive date, but the days of cheap eats in the resorts of Vegas are tough to find anymore. A relic from the past. But many folks are on expenses (or a covered event) when here, so enjoy the moment.

3/4/24 (new entry)

Mercato della Pescheria ~ Las Vegas, Nevada

The Venetian

Latest visit: Mar 2024

First visit: Feb 2023

They have a second location in Miami Beach, Florida.

I did not expect my first dinner to be at a place we visited last year. Primarily because this year's conference is at the Wynn rather than the Venetian. As the crow flies, the resorts are next door to each other. But as anyone who's been to Vegas knows, that means at least a 30 minute walk between them. No matter, as we all can use the exercise. This was a limited team dinner before the conference starts. So the good news meant we can order from the menu! Yaay. I did get to try their chicken parm on this visit, and it was quite good. Huge portion with fettucine noodles. I was hungry so I had no problem devouring the meal. Thick and tasty red sauce. The chicken wasn't as crispy as I prefer, but not unexpected. We also ordered a few bottles of the The Prisoner red blend. At $105 a bottle, it was indeed great, though way beyond my personal budget. I don't think I enjoy these higher end wines any more than the $20 to $30 ones. Probably that's on me, but my palate has gone all in for beer these days. As an appetizer I enjoyed the meatballs, but wasn't as excited for the calamari, which seemed a bit underdone. Overall, Mercato della Pescheria makes for a fine resort dining experience, though I have to think my best options are off the Strip. Who knows if I'll ever visit here without a conference or show being the reason.

---original 3/5/23 review

Our breakfasts and lunches are served buffet style, which is the only way one can mass feed 4,000 people (yes, that many). I think the hotel did a splendid job of crowd control and making sure we all got something decent to eat. A lot of planning and execution go into this, and I don't think many appreciate that. But I do. I imagine myself being in charge - it would be tough.

After a full day of ra-ra meetings, it's time to unwind. We first had a happy hour at yet another jam packed loud place with no craft beers. Ugh. Then it was time for dinner at "The Fish Market". Again, they did a masterful job of ensuring a great many folks were fed at this restaurant (a much smaller subset than the conference of course). As with Bouchon, a set menu was applied. This one was more like a cruise ship where they just brought out everything and you pick out what you want. In the end it was way too much food. It is hard to judge a restaurant like this, because I would have wanted to apply my test dish. Which would be chicken parm and pasta, and that is on their regular menu. But that wasn't on offer this evening. But what they did bring out, I enjoyed quite a bit. The Caesar salad, appetizers, steak, and in particular the salmon were excellent. The latter had a crispy breading which was a nice twist. Excellent desserts and good conversation at our table. This is for sure one place I would seek out on my own if given the chance.

2/28/23 (new entry); 3/3/24

Mollica's Italian Market & Deli ~ Colorado Springs, Colorado

Latest visit: Mar 2024

First visit: Dec 2022

This is my 3rd time to Mollica's, back again on my own since Mrs. RJG didn't enjoy it last year. I combined my last two meals and had the Combo which is their meatball and sausage sub. I enjoyed everything about it - the meats, the crunchy roll, the red sauce, the temperature, you name it. I don't like that they ask for an unearned tip at the credit card machine. I really wish counter serve and drive through restaurants would stop this practice immediately. I feel bad to leave zero tip, but I'm not handing even more money out, considering it's not cheap to begin with. The only demerit on an otherwise excellent revisit.

---8/12/23 update

Managed to get Mrs. RJG out to Mollica's for the first time but sadly it didn't resonate with her. She tried the meatball sub which I was certain she would like (see below), but no such luck. Her viewpoint: Bread was too chewy and moist; Meatballs are too porky. Sigh. I went with the Italian sausage sub. A full sausage and a half cut into 3 slices. Still love their sauce and bread. I was at least happy. :-)

---original 12/30/22 review

Mollica's is one of those places that I drive by often, declare that I want to try it, and subsequently forget all about the event. Each time. I never did write it down, but fortunately it came up on a search for best subs in town, and finally I was reminded during lunch time.

I was a bit lost when first entering, but figured it out quickly. There are paper menus to your right when you walk in. I missed that. So now you won't make the same mistake... I had looked online and the menu was the same. My intention was to order the Dominic, which is their hot meatball sub. And that's exactly what I did - full 8 inches. I wasn't interested in the red bell peppers, and that will also take away the onions as they're blended together. Probably for the best. They give you a number on a stand, and find any open table to display it on. Red and white checkered no less. Perfect.

My meal came out much faster than expected, hand delivered. Oh wow - we may have our best meatball sub in town! Back East Bar may have to step aside. Can't wait to evaluate next year who is best. Why so great? Well first the Italian roll was toasted just right. Mrs. RJG would have loved it. The meatballs are homemade and very firm. And a superb taste on its own. No bland meatball here! The cheese is appropriately gooey. And that takes us to the best part - the sauce! I must try a pasta here. Very delicious.

It's a good sized space, so there were plenty of tables to choose from, even though the crowd was decent. As noted by the name, it also serves as a real delicatessen. Might have to get a pound of Italian meats next time as well. I'll insist Mrs. RJG joins me to get her take.

Just to note that if you're heading west on Garden of the Gods (which is likely, especially if from out of town coming off I-25), I would take the left exit before Forge and make a right in the shopping center. The left at Forge is a bit dicey to maneuver. Almost better to make a U-Turn there. Google will take you to Forge, so keep your eyes peeled for the last exit before it (Forge has a traffic light, so you won't miss it). 

12/30/22 (new entry); 8/12/23; 3/2/24

Schlotzsky's ~ national chain : Colorado Springs, Colorado

Latest visit: Mar 2024 (Voyager)

First visit: 1982 (Dallas, TX) A loooong time ago whenever it was. The location was up in Prestonwood area of far north Dallas and is long gone. Heck, might of even tried it in Austin sometime during the 70s when the RJG was still a young teen, traveling there with my dad.

HQ: Atlanta (Founded 1971 in Austin, Texas)

Locations: 338 (-1) in 26 states. Colorado has 5 total with 3 in the Springs (same). Texas has, by far, the most at 209 (same) with Southlake hanging in there.

First visit of the year, and could also be my last. Not that the sandwich wasn't great (it was - Medium Deluxe as noted below), it's just I don't go here very much anymore since they moved their opening hours to 10:30. I just happened to be on my way home during lunch and grabbed it to-go. At $11 including tax, it's a pricey option (what isn't these days?). There was a time when I would go about 40 times a year. Long ago it seems. Now once or twice. 

---7/16/23 update

Since my last update, this location of Schlotzsky's made the unfortunate decision to close during breakfast hours. Not that I ever got breakfast here, but they served their full menu, and oftentimes I'm ready for my "daily meal" around 9 in the morning. Because of this decision, I never go here anymore. The only reason I went this time is that my schedule was topsy-turvy, and I ended coming here for a late lunch. And driving the sandwich back home. But that was an unusual circumstance. There was a time I went here weekly, especially during the pandemic. And now they've managed to lose my business. Oh well. As for the sandwich, because it was late, I didn't get the medium deluxe, but rather the small deluxe. Still great as ever.

I didn't mention this before, but Schlotzsky's was also my weekly go-to lunch on Monday's in 1995 and 1996 while working nearby (same company I met Mrs. RJG, Rude Dante, Old Boss, etc...). That location is in Greenwood Village and is also still going!

---1/7/22 notes

Schlotzsky's is the one fast food chain that hasn't been letting me down lately, or at least this location. I've been inside a couple of times and they have a nice pleasant dining area. But most of the time I use the drive-thru, as I prefer to put their sandwiches in our Gourmia to ensure it's crispness. That's the one problem with Schlotzsky's is that the bread can get soggy if not consumed quickly or reheated properly. This location is ~10 minutes from our home. On this visit, I went with my usual medium Original Deluxe, which is a double hamburger sized sandwich loaded with deli meats. They too have raised their prices some, but at least I don't feel ripped off.

Also to note that during the pandemic in 2020 - when we had the hard lockdowns in March and April - Schlotzsky's was the first place I went (drive-thru), and it became the most regular stop thereafter. I will not forget our local franchiser who provided a safe and tasty alternative!

As of this writing, there are 338 locations, 6 in Colorado, with half of those here in the Springs. Texas by comparison has 210. Our old Southlake location is still going strong it appears.

---original 3/4/10 review (Southlake-TX)

Schlotzsky's is one of those chains folks tend to miss if you don't live near one. We've been fortunate that in both Texas and Colorado, they are well represented. But it's not something we take for granted, and they would be sorely missed if suddenly they were shut down due to something like bankruptcy. If you haven't been for a while (or ever), support your local franchiser and give it a shot!

With Schlotzsky's, it's all about the bread. Long before Quizno's showed up, Schlotzsky's pioneered the conveyor-belt-toaster concept, and their bread reacts well to it, providing the right crispiness and flavors when heated properly. Sometimes it's best to take them to-go and toast them again at home... They have various veggie and meat combinations that are all very good, but if it weren't for the bread itself (including for pizzas), Schlotzsky's would be long gone from the culinary landscape. My favorite is a medium Original Deluxe, which is double the meat. It's a big sandwich, and certainly something I only eat after having run over 3 miles. Mrs. RJG likes a small Original on Jalapeno Cheese bread.

Schlotzsky's humble beginnings goes back to 1971 in Austin. Being relatively close in proximity to Austin, Dallas was an early expansion city for the then small chain, and so I first enjoyed them at their northwest Dallas location in the early 1980s while still in high school. And they followed me to my college years in Lubbock throughout the middle 80s. 

1982; 4//95; 1//96; 1//97; 3/15/05; 3/4/10 (new entry); 10/18/11; 5/22/12; 7/8/15; 5/4/18; 3/10/20; 1/30/21; 1/7/22; 7/16/23; 3/1/24

Dallas, Texas (2); Lubbock, Texas; Greenwood Village, Colorado; Aurora, Colorado; Southlake, Texas;vColorado Springs, Colorado