Dinner

How to Travel and Eat Your Way Around Cabo, Mexico

Cabo San Lucas, Mexico, is a popular tourist destination known for its stunning beaches, outdoor activities, and vibrant nightlife. But what many travelers may not know is that Cabo is also a food lover’s paradise. With a diverse culinary scene that ranges from street tacos to high-end dining, there’s no shortage of delicious food to be found in Cabo. In this post, we’ll explore how to travel and eat your way around Cabo, Mexico.

Here are some options to and from the airpot. You can rent a car, take a shared van OR get a private car service. I recommend the a car service so you can enjoy your margarita on the go. Getting around Cabo is inexpensive. Uber will cost you roughly $4 per ride probably cheaper depending on where you are going.

Where to stay:

Airbnb. I stayed outside of downtown Cabo at a gated resident called Santa Carmela. Approximately 10 minutes from downtown, making it easy to get back and forth. This very stylish condo is just outside of the business of downtown and perfectly positioned for a quiet getaway. The kitchen was well stocked with everything I needed for cooking in. I took frequent advantage of having a super nice grocery store right across the highway. The casa club at the base of the complex is incredible. It has a private pool, bar, and I frequently went there to watch the sun rise to start the day. The Unit had strong Wi-Fi, AC and a super comfortable bed to snuggle in. I could honestly go on, and on, but you get where I’m going! This place gets a 10/10 and will come back again. Highly recommended if you are looking for a place for yourself or with a significant other.

Places to dine:

SUR Beach House.

SUR Beach House, located in the heart of Cabo San Lucas, is a stunning oceanfront restaurant that offers a unique and unforgettable dining experience. The restaurant is part of the Hotel El Ganzo, a boutique hotel that’s known for its artistic ambiance and eclectic style.

The first thing you notice when you arrive at SUR Beach House is the breathtaking view. The restaurant sits right on the beach, and the turquoise waters of the Sea of Cortez stretch out as far as the eye can see. The decor is chic and modern, with clean lines and a minimalist aesthetic that complements the natural beauty of the surroundings.

The menu at SUR Beach House is focused on fresh, locally sourced ingredients, with an emphasis on seafood. The ceviche is a must-try – it’s made with a variety of fish and seafood that’s marinated in lime juice and served with avocado and crispy plantain chips. The grilled octopus is another standout dish, with tender, perfectly cooked tentacles that are served with roasted garlic aioli and a smoky chili sauce.

In addition to the food, the drinks at SUR Beach House are also top-notch. The cocktail menu is creative and innovative, with a focus on tequila and mezcal-based drinks. The mezcal margarita, made with fresh lime juice and a smoky mezcal, is a standout.

2. La Lupita – Taco & Mezcal.

La Lupita – Taco & Mezcal is a vibrant and popular restaurant that’s known for its delicious tacos and extensive mezcal selection. With its lively atmosphere and creative menu, it’s a must-visit spot for anyone looking for a fun and authentic dining experience in Cabo.The walls are adorned with murals and graffiti-style artwork, giving the restaurant a hip and trendy vibe. The outdoor seating area is particularly charming, with twinkling lights and cozy seating that’s perfect for a warm summer night.

The menu at La Lupita is focused on tacos, with a range of creative and inventive options that will appeal to everyone from meat-lovers to vegetarians. The pork belly taco is a must-try – it’s made with crispy pork belly, pineapple salsa, and pickled onions, and is bursting with flavor. The vegetarian options are also excellent, with dishes like the mushroom and huitlacoche (a type of corn fungus) taco that’s rich and savory.

The mezcal selection at La Lupita is impressive, with over 100 different varieties to choose from. The staff is knowledgeable and happy to make recommendations based on your preferences, and they’ll even bring out a tray of different mezcals for you to sample if you’re having trouble deciding.

What should you try here: Fried Oyster, Drunken Barbacoa Tacos (Lamb), Chipotle Shrimp Tacos, Braised Pork Tacos)

3. Toro Latin Kitchen & Bar.

Hands down my FAVORITE restaurant. Everything about this place is phenomenal! Yes, I’m giving this restaurant high praise. Toro Latin Kitchen & Bar is a high-end restaurant located in the heart of Cabo San Lucas. Helmed by celebrity chef Richard Sandoval, Toro is known for its innovative fusion cuisine that combines Latin and Asian flavors in unexpected and delicious ways.

The restaurant’s decor is sleek and modern, with clean lines and a sophisticated ambiance that sets the tone for the dining experience. The open kitchen adds to the excitement of the space, allowing diners to watch the chefs in action as they prepare each dish with precision and care.

Now, let’s talk about the food. The menu at Toro is extensive and features a wide range of dishes that showcase the restaurant’s unique fusion cuisine. The short rib taco, is a standout starter that’s both light and flavorful. The churrasco steak, served with chimichurri sauce and crispy yucca fries, is a hearty and satisfying main course. And the sushi rolls, which feature unexpected ingredients like plantains and cilantro, are a must-try for sushi lovers.

In addition to the food, Toro has an impressive selection of cocktails and wines that are expertly curated to complement the flavors of the dishes. The staff are knowledgeable and passionate about the drinks, and they’re happy to make recommendations based on your preferences.

What should you try here: Lomo Saltado Empanada, Short Rib Tacos, Chicken Thigh Cusco Style, and Caramel Cheese Cake.

4. Puerta Vieja.

Puerta Vieja is a hidden gem in Cabo San Lucas that’s not to be missed. With its rustic decor, delicious food, and friendly service, it’s the perfect spot for a relaxed and authentic Mexican dining experience. Whether you’re a foodie or just looking for a cozy spot to unwind, Puerta Vieja is the perfect choice.

Puerta Vieja’s menu is a feast for the senses, with a range of dishes that showcase the flavors and ingredients of traditional Mexican cuisine. The ribeye steak and shrimp caught my attention. This is a delicious and indulgent meal that’s sure to satisfy any carnivore’s cravings. The juicy and tender ribeye steak are cooked to perfection. The shrimp are plump and juicy with a slightly smoky and charred flavor that pairs well with the steak. The dish is served with a side of roasted vegetables that add a healthy and satisfying element to the meal.

But the real star of Puerta Vieja is the ambiance and the service. The friendly and attentive staff are knowledgeable about the menu and happy to make recommendations based on your preferences. And you’ll have a beautiful view of downtown Cabo, the famous Arch of Cabo, while you enjoy a delicious meal. Overall, Puerta Vieja is a must-visit restaurant in Cabo San Lucas.

5. Bar Esquina.

Bar Esquina, located in the luxurious Bahia Hotel, is a chic and sophisticated restaurant that offers a unique dining experience. The decor is modern and stylish, with sleek lines and contemporary art that create a cool and hip vibe.

As you step inside Bar Esquina, you’ll be greeted by the friendly staff who will guide you to your table. The outdoor patio is a popular spot, with its comfortable seating and twinkling lights that create a romantic and intimate atmosphere. And the bar area is a bustling hub of activity, with expert bartenders crafting creative and innovative cocktails that are as beautiful as they are delicious.

The menu at Bar Esquina is a fusion of Latin and Mediterranean cuisine, with a range of dishes that showcase the flavors and ingredients of both regions. The octopus carpaccio is a standout starter, with tender slices of octopus that are served with a flavorful olive tapenade. The lamb chops, served with a rosemary demi-glace and roasted garlic mashed potatoes, are a hearty and satisfying main course that will leave you feeling satisfied and content.

The cocktail menu is creative and innovative, with a range of options that feature unique ingredients and unexpected flavor combinations. The mezcal margarita, made with fresh lime juice and a smoky mezcal, is a standout that’s perfect for sipping on a warm evening. And the wine list is impressive, with a variety of international and local wines that are expertly curated to complement the flavors of the dishes.

Whether you’re a foodie or a cocktail lover, Bar Esquina is sure to impress.

Things to do:

Massage at Eden Spas – Affordable spa with great service.
Sailing with Cabo Sailing – The crew members are super cool, we had a great time, your ticket comes with an open bar and lunch.

Overall, I hope with the following recommendations, you’ll enjoy Cabo San Lucas just as much I did. Go with an open mind and create a new experience. If you have any questions, do not hesitate to contact me. Follow me on Instagram at @Tayoscreation.

Nobu: A Japanese Delicacy in the Heart of Malibu

Nobu Malibu is an exquisite restaurant that offers a unique culinary experience for its guests. Located in the beautiful city of Malibu, California, this restaurant has a stunning oceanfront location that provides breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. I had the pleasure of dining there and I must say, it was an exceptional experience.

From the moment I arrived, the ambiance was luxurious and relaxed, with the sound of the waves crashing in the background. The décor was modern and minimalist, with warm lighting and tasteful accents. The restaurant’s interior design seamlessly blends with the natural beauty of its surroundings, creating a truly breathtaking atmosphere.

Shrimp and Lobster with Spicy Lemon Sauce

But of course, the highlight of any dining experience is the food, and Nobu Malibu did not disappoint. The menu offers an extensive selection of Japanese-Peruvian fusion dishes, all of which are exquisitely prepared and beautifully presented. The sushi and sashimi were particularly outstanding, with fresh and high-quality ingredients that made each bite melt in my mouth. The yellowtail with jalapeno and black cod miso were also standout dishes that I highly recommend.

Chilean Sea Bass in Dry Miso and Asparagus

The service at Nobu Malibu was impeccable, with attentive and knowledgeable staff who were always on hand to offer recommendations and ensure that our dining experience was nothing short of perfect. The cocktails were also a highlight, with unique and creative flavor combinations that perfectly complemented the food.

Overall, I highly recommend Nobu Malibu to anyone looking for an exceptional dining experience in a breathtaking setting. It’s not cheap, but for a special occasion or a treat, it’s definitely worth it.

Address: 22706 Pacific Coast Hwy Malibu, CA 90265 | (310) 317-9140 | www.noburestaurants.com

Bedford & Co.: A Sophisticated Dining Experience in the Heart of New York City

Dinner With Tayo comes to NYC! Can you feel my excitement through the screen? I was super excited to join the team and when I found out my first stop would be Bedford & Co, my mouth started to water.

I’ve always heard pretty, good things about this hidden Midtown East gem but was pleasantly surprised on how much I enjoyed the cuisine. Bedford & Co. is American cuisine but with an amazing twist – I’ll explain later.

Address: The Renwick, 118 E. 40th Street, New York, NY 10016 | www.bedfordandco.com | (212) 634-4040

After work, I trekked my way up from Financial District to Midtown East and let me tell you, I rarely visit that area. Between Grand Central and all the tourists, it is a headache & anxiety wrapped up with a pretty bow. However, Bedford & Co. is located on a quiet street on 40^th & Lexington and is very unassuming from the front. As soon as you walk in, there is a SUPER cute and quaint lounge area that is semi-tucked away from everyone… can you say, date vibes!

The overall vibe of Bedford & Co. is a merge between a dope speakeasy and a classic American restaurant. Now, I am a bar seater at its finest but since I was trying to have an overall experience of Bedford & Co. I decided to sit in the restaurant area. The overall restaurant area is dimly lit with tea candles and no matter where you sit, you can see the kitchen carefully working on your meal, I fell in love even more!

Of course, I started with a glass of Rose’ because well, spring is here! The waitress, who was super cool read off the specials to me and all I heard was “soft shell crab” and I was in. I’m from Maryland so the thought of having crabs, is an instant win in my book. When it arrived, it was beautifully plated and not sure how I can explain it but it was an Asian fusion on my taste buds. The soft shell crab was tempura fried, over a bed of mint, spring peas, and fermented chilies with a light ponzu sauce that was not overwhelming at all but so complementing. Oh and sesame seeds sprinkled on top. I mean, I devoured this dish! It was literally a party in my mouth!

Next up for my main was the leg of lamb! What sets this restaurant apart is they cook almost all the protein on a wood-fired grill, which gave a nice charcoal taste to the lamb. To me, the lamb was almost Mediterranean style with a rich herb glaze but then had an almost yogurt style sauce that went so well with the lamb. In addition, the crunchiness of the Brussel sprouts along with the walnuts, match made in heaven!

Unfortunately, I did not have any room for desert but if I did, the brownie has my name written all over it! Overall, Bedford & Co. is a super win in my book. The ambiance, well thought out menu and not to mention, the music – they were playing 90’s Hip Hop and R&B the entire time from Usher to Notorious B.I.G. If you are ever in that area I would definitely stop by for a dope vibe. Oh, and they have bottomless brunch on the weekends and us, New Yorkers, love that!

Appetizer:

Tempura Fried Ponzu Soft Shell Crab

Main Entree:

Colorado Lamb Leg with Brussel Sprouts & Walnuts

Make sure you follow me on @JustAddHotSauce_

Authentic Korean BBQ in the Heart of NYC: Jongro BBQ

If you love Korean BBQ just as much as I do, Jongro BBQ is the place you need to be. A popular Korean BBQ restaurant located in the heart of New York City, Jongro BBQ is known for its authentic Korean flavors, delicious and high-quality meats. The restaurant has quickly become a favorite among locals and tourists alike. The menu does have a lot of options to work with so I would say do your little research before you head there.

One of the standout features of Jongro BBQ is its commitment to using only the finest ingredients in its dishes. All of the meats used in the restaurant are carefully selected and prepared to ensure the best possible flavor and quality. From the thinly sliced beef brisket to the juicy pork belly, every dish at Jongro BBQ is a treat for the taste buds.

Another unique aspect of Jongro BBQ is its traditional Korean dining experience. The restaurant features a charcoal grill at every table, allowing guests to cook their own meats to their liking. This interactive dining experience is not only fun and entertaining, but also allows diners to fully appreciate the flavors and textures of the meats they are enjoying.

In addition to its exceptional meats, Jongro BBQ also offers a variety of traditional Korean sides, including kimchi, pickled vegetables, and steamed egg. The restaurant’s extensive menu also includes a variety of soups and stews, as well as hot stone bibimbap, a Korean rice dish served in a sizzling hot stone bowl.

Recommendation: The Kimchi Bulgogi Gobdol (picture above) comes with a choice of beef, pork, chicken, or tofu with a combination of vegetables–cucumber, spinach, and mung bean sprouts. Mixed with goshujang, a chili pepper paste that packs pleasant heat and a bit of sweetness, together it’s a satisfying combination.

The Grilled pork belly BBQ seems to be the popular dish. Served with Samjang, teriyaki and bean powder, Kimchi (cabbage), onions, lettuce, and macaroni salad.

Overall, Jongro BBQ is a must-visit destination for anyone looking for authentic Korean BBQ in the heart of New York City. With its commitment to high-quality ingredients and traditional Korean dining experiences, it’s no wonder that this restaurant has become a favorite among foodies and barbecue enthusiasts alike.

Jongro Boo is official Dinner With Tayo Approved! Enjoy

How To Make Oven-Baked Sweet Potato Mac and Cheese

This oven-baked sweet potato mac and cheese is a delicious twist on a classic comfort food. This recipe incorporates nutrient-dense sweet potatoes into the creamy, cheesy sauce for a healthier take on mac and cheese. The sweet potatoes add a subtle sweetness and creaminess to the dish, while also boosting its nutritional value. The result is a rich, satisfying meal that the whole family will love. Plus, this recipe is easy to make and can be customized with your favorite mix-ins and toppings. Give it a try and enjoy the delicious taste of sweet potato mac and cheese.

Ingredients

1 box penne pasta
3-5 sweet potato (depending on serving)
1 can of carnation condensed milk
1 cups shredded sharp Cheddar cheese
1 1/4 cups shredded sharp Cheddar jack cheese
1 1/4 cups shredded sharp Mozzarella cheese
Feta Cheese (for topping)
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon paprika pepper
Fresh parsley finely diced (for garnish)

Instructions

Preheat oven at 350 degrees.
In a large pot of boiling water, cook the pasta until just tender, 7 to 9 minutes. Add in 1 Tbsp butter and salt. Drain once done; set aside.
Meanwhile, cut the sweet potato in several several pieces or in half. Cook the potatoes in a large pot of boiling water until they are tender, 10-15 minutes.
Once the sweet potatoes are done, allow the potatoes to cool down on a cooling rack and peel the skin off. Cut the potatoes into small pieces and sit aside.
In a small pot, Whisk milk Heat over medium heat, add in cheddar cheese and pinch of salt; whisking frequently, until steaming, hot, and cheese have melted and blended in with the mix.
Remove from heat.
Prepare the bottom of the baking dish with Cheddar jack cheese. Add the sweet potatoes then penne pasta. Top with cheese mix; Top with mozzarella cheese, feta cheese and paprika.
Bake on the upper rack in the oven until the cheese are nicely melted and the top is lightly browned and crispy, about 10 minutes.
Remove from the oven and garnish with finely diced parsley.
Enjoy! Make sure you tag #DinnerWithTayo, I would love to see your dish.

Jollof Rice That Will Spice Up Your Dinner Table

Bring the flavors of the West Africa directly to your kitchen. Let’s spice up your dinner routine by learning how to make jollof rice in easy steps. This Jollof rice recipe is packed with delicious traditional Nigerian flavors you’ll absolutely enjoy.

INGREDIENTS

6 cups long grain rice
3 large red bell peppers
1-2 scotch bonnets
1 can plum tomatoes
1 medium sweet onion
5 medium tomatos roma

1 18 oz tomato paste
3 vegetable Knorr cubes (or chicken or beef flavors) (2 teaspoons bouillon powder)
1 medium red onion sliced, sliced
2 tablespoons curry powder
2 tablespoons dried thyme
3 bay leaves
½ cups vegetable oil
Salt to taste
2 ½ cup vegetable broth (You can also use chicken/beef broth)
1 C Water
2 tablespoons Butter

INSTRUCTIONS

First, Blend the bell peppers, plum tomatoes, scotch bonnet, and onion.
In a large pot over medium high heat, add oil, let this heat up. Then add half of the sliced red onions and sautee until they are fragrant and translucent.
Next, add tomato paste and fry for 8-10 minutes. Add in the blended peppers, curry powder, dried thyme, vegetable bouillon cubes, bay leaves, and salt. Fry till it is dark red and no longer raw. It will be reduced in quantity, thick and the oil will float to the top of the sauce. The is fine and this process takes about 10 – 15 minutes.
Then add the vegetable broth, and water. Gentle stir in the washed rice. Cover the pot first with aluminum foil followed by the pot lid. Cook the rice on low heat till it’s almost tender. This will take about 25 minutes but periodically check the rice and stir if needed. You might want to add water if it’s extremely dry in that 25 minute time frame.
Add the remaining sliced red onion, salad tomato, and butter. Cover the pot and continue to steam the rice till it’s tender. If you want the authentic party jollof taste, cook on high heat for the first 25 minutes, reduce heat and let rice absolve the Smokey flavor generated from the Burnt to rice.
Stir the rice and take it off the heat. Serve and enjoy!
Make sure you hashtag #DinnerWithTayo, I would love to see your dish.