Random Meal Of The Day

Cinnamon Caramel Ice Cream Cookie Sandwich at C.R.E.A.M.

2012-02-12T07:32:00.000-08:00

Our random meal of the day treat brings us a Cinnamon Carmel Ice Cream Cookie Sandwich. This ice cream sandwich just hit the spot. You get to choose the type of cookie that you want and then the type of ice cream filling. Yum!

Found at C.R.E.A.M. in Berkeley, California.

Canon 5D Mark II, 50mm, f2.0, 1/125, iso 100, +0.67ev

Buttermilk Fried Chicken at Angeline's Louisiana Kitchen

2012-02-10T07:02:00.000-08:00

Our random meal of the day brings us some Buttermilk Fried Chicken. This order starts with several pieces of buttermilk batter boneless fried chicken breast that are placed on a bed of a flavorful ginger-vanilla sweet potato mash. A perfect side serving of tasso ham cream gravy enhances the moist buttermilk fried chicken. For the healthy touch to the random meal, we finsh with Blue Lake green beans.

Found at Angeline's Louisiana Kitchen in Berkeley, California.

Canon 5D Mark II, 50mm, f2.8, 1/80, iso 3200, +0.33ev

Hamburger at In-N-Out Burger

2012-02-07T07:02:00.000-08:00

We have a Hamburger for our random meal of the day. I am wondering if this breaks my new years resolution of not buying any camera bodies for 2012 if the camera is part of a phone? I am always on the lookout for an awesome point and shoot camera and I think that I finally found it in a phone. The best camera is the one you have with you and since I should have my phone with me, it becomes the best camera.

The funny thing was that I actually had my DSLR with me. We were traveling up to the Bay Area to San Jose and decided to stop for lunch. Since I've already shot In-N-Out Burger before, I decided to just take a quick snap of the burger to see what it looks like with my new iPhone 4S. I actually use the iPhone as part of my work flow to take pictures of menus so that I can remember what I ate. The way I document my random meals is to use my iPhone Yelp app to check in so that I have a history of what I ate. Then take a picture of the menu with my iPhone so that I can look at it when I write my blog post. I use to take the menu shots with the camera that I shoot food with but I found that it so much nicer to have all the menu shots in one location, that I can view whenever I finally decide to post a particular shot.

To complete my work flow, I normally quickly go though the shots that I've have taken on my many random cameras and then put the winning shot into my dropbox folder. Dropbox is great as I like the ability to access the files wherever I am. That is a referral link below. I will not get any money but will get more free space if you sign up ;)
www.dropbox.com
With the file in my dropbox folder, I can actually browse the photos with my iPhone Dropbox app and sometimes choose what to post later that day.

The final step is to post on random meal of the day with some html editing to make to photos larger on the screen. All this for Zero Dollars and Zero Cents as this is just my hobby, but I do have lots of fun...

Found at In-N-Out Burger in Kettleman City, California.

Apple iPhone 4S in white

Banana Cream Tart at Tartine Bakery

2012-02-02T07:02:00.000-08:00

Today we finish our three part random meal of the day feature of Tartine Bakery. It was a magical visit. We ended the visit with a Banana Cream Tart for dessert. The four inch tart is a "flaky pastry coated in dark chocolate with caramel, pastry cream, and lightly sweetened cream". This was such a smooth dessert and was such a sublime treat.

Found at Tartine Bakery in San Francisco, California.

Canon 5D Mark II, 50mm, f2.0, 1/250, iso 200, +0.67ev

Jambon Royale & Gruyere Sandwich at Tartine Bakery

2012-02-01T07:06:00.000-08:00

Today we continue with our three part random meal of the day feature of Tartine Bakery. It was a magical visit. We have the Jambon Royale & Gruyere Sandwich for lunch. The magic in this sandwich is in the bread. Tartine lets their bread rise for eight hours prior to baking and this really changes the complexion of the bread. The hot pressed sandwich starts with of course the fantastic country bread. We then add a layer of Niman Ranch cured and smoked ham. A layer of Gruyere cheese perfectly complements the ham. I choose to have the Dijon on the side before the sandwich was pressed. A spicy pickled baby carrot accompanies the random meal. I was sad that they only sold the actually loaf of bread after 5PM or I think I could have ate a whole loaf of this wonderful country bread.

Found at Tartine Bakery in San Francisco, California.

Canon 5D Mark II, 50mm, f2.8, 1/250, iso 200, +1.67ev

Morning Bun at Tartine Bakery

2012-01-31T07:05:00.000-08:00

Today we start a three part random meal of the day feature of Tartine Bakery. It was a magical visit. We start with a Morning Bun for breakfast. The morning bun was simply amazing. You get this fantastic balance of a crispy outer crust and a moist feathery fluffy inner core. The sweetness of the morning bun had just a right balance of a honey like sugar coating while allowing the actual bread stand out. Every single morsel was just heavenly.

Found at Tartine Bakery in San Francisco, California.

Canon 5D Mark II, 50mm, f1.2, 1/250, iso 100, +0.67ev

Chicken Tender Taco at Sharkeez

2012-01-25T07:11:00.000-08:00

Our random meal of the day brings us a Chicken Tender Taco. I was reading the description for this taco and it reads "Crispy breaded chicken and bacon". The bacon sold it. The other taco is a fish taco. Bacon trumps fish. ;)

Found at Sharkeez in Manhattan Beach, California.

Canon 5D Mark II, 50mm, f2.8, 1/80, iso 400

Grilled Chicken Tacos at Qdoba Mexican Grill

2012-01-20T07:02:00.000-08:00

Our random meal of the day brings us an order of some Grilled Chicken Tacos on a crispy corn tortillas. So would this considered a healthy random meal if a layer of lettuce is sprinkled over the tacos?

Found at Qdoba Mexican Grill in Hawthorne, California.

Canon 5D Mark II, 50mm, f2.0, 1/125, iso 400

Chicken Massamun Curry Lunch at Ayara Thai

2012-01-17T07:09:00.000-08:00

We have for our random meal of the day an order of Chicken Massamun Curry. This is part of a lunch special and was very smooth.

Found at Ayara Thai in Westchester, California.

Nikon D700, 60mm, f3.0, 1/160, iso 200, +0.67ev

Chocolate Twist Donut at Mr Goods Donuts Shop

2012-01-15T10:01:00.000-08:00

Our random meal of the day treat brings us a Chocolate Twist Donut. This is the breakfast of champions.

Found at Mr Goods Donuts Shop in Pasadena, California.

Canon 5D Mark II, 50mm, f2.8, 1/60, iso 400

Santa Fe Turkey Burger at Carl's Jr

2012-01-14T07:04:00.000-08:00

Our random meal of the day brings us the Santa Fe Turkey Burger. I really enjoy the creative commercials that Carl's Jr produces. Hey, I have to give a company props for making "Chipotle" almost as commonplace as ketchup. This burger was lit this time with only one external LED video light overhead behind an umbrella and a small reflector bouncing the light forward.

Found at Carl's Jr in Pasadena, California.

Canon 5D Mark II, 50mm, f2.8, 1/200, iso 3200

Fire Grilled Steak Burrito at Cafe Rio

2012-01-12T07:01:00.000-08:00

Our random meal of the day brings us an order of the Fire Grilled Steak Burrito. The funny thing was that I was determined today to eat something random, but it was just one of those days where I could not make up my mind so off to a not so random meal for me. I actually had this burrito quite a few times but I never did post a shot of it. It is simple but fantastic. We start with an actual hand made flour tortilla and layer it with a green file rice. I held off on the beans and continued by adding fired grilled steak. A handful of cheese and a layer of hot sauce completed this random meal.

Found at Cafe Rio in Manhattan Beach, California.

Canon 5D Mark II, 50mm, f2.0, 1/640, iso 100, +1.33ev

Pork Meatballs with Shrimp Rolls at Nem Nuong Ninh Hoa

2012-01-10T07:03:00.000-08:00

Our random meal of the day brings us an order of Pork Meatballs with Shrimp Rolls or otherwise know as Cuon voi Cha Ram Tom. There are four of these delicious mouth watering rice paper rolls. You start with some tender grilled pork meatballs and then you layer it with a crispy fried shrimp egg roll. Shredded lettuce, carrots and a stick of chives are added as the garnish before you roll the rice paper up and make the wonderful Pork Meatballs with Shrimp Rolls.

Found at Nem Nuong Ninh Hoa in Rosemead, California.

Nikon D700, 50mm, f2.8, 1/80, iso 1000

Coconut Milk Tapioca Drink at Phoenix Food Boutique

2012-01-08T06:52:00.000-08:00

Our random meal of the day treat brings us a Coconut Milk Tapioca Drink. This refreshing, semi frozen drink just hits the spot. The mini clear tapioca balls gives the drink texture and nicely rounds the drink out.

Found at Phoenix Food Boutique in South Pasadena, California.

Sony A55, 30mm, f4.0, 1/50, iso 200, +0.3ev, LED Lit

Baja Fiesta Salad at The Veggie Grill

2012-01-05T07:05:00.000-08:00

Our random meal of the day brings us the Baja Fiesta Salad. This is an interesting leafy salad. We start with a bed of chopped romaine lettuce and then layer quinoa over the lettuce. Chopped cubed papaya and cucumber are then mixed in. A layer of roasted corn salsa and slices of avocado round out the salad. The finishing touch is a sprinkling of toasted tortilla strips. The key to the Baja Fiesta Salad is the ginger-papaya vinaigrette. This dressing just made the salad pop!

Found at The Veggie Grill in El Segundo, California.

Canon 5D Mark II, 50mm, f4.0, 1/80, iso 400, +0.33ev

Combo Teriyaki Chicken and Beef Rice Bowl at Mako Bowl

2012-01-04T07:02:00.000-08:00

We have for our random meal of the day a large Combo Teriyaki Chicken and Beef Rice Bowl. This random meal was lit by three different LED video lights. Two of the lights are directly overhead behind a large umbrella and the third was under the shooting table.

Found at Mako Bowl in Pasadena, California.

Panasonic GF3, 25mm, f2.0, 1/60, iso 160, +0.33ev, LED lit

Pulled Pork Benedict at Marston's Restaurant

2012-01-03T07:06:00.000-08:00

Our random meal of the day brings us an order of a Pulled Pork Benedict. This is a twist on a eggs benedict as instead of Canadian bacon, we use BBQ pork. Also to give the Benedict an extra kick, it is topped with a spicy hollandaise sauce.

Found at Marston's Restaurant in Pasadena, California.

Nikon D700, 85mm, f4.0, 1/160, iso 1100, +0.33ev

Berrytale or Blueberry Cream Cheese Bun at 85C Bakery Cafe

2012-01-01T07:05:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year Random Mealers! We ring in 2012 with one of my favorites the Berrytale. The Berrytale is a fantastic blueberry cream cheese bun and is the perfect way to start the first random meal of the day for 2012.

Also since this is a new year, it is resolutions time. My new years resolution is simple, no new camera bodies for 2012. Yikes!...
Also ringing in the new year, I will start mixing it up by using more external lighting for my takeout orders. It is time to light it up!

Found at 85C Bakery Cafe in Hacienda Heights, California.

Canon 5D Mark II, 100mm, f8.0, 6s, iso 100, +0.67ev

Mocha Cupcake at Cupcakes Couture

2011-12-24T08:05:00.000-08:00

Happy Holidays everyone! We have for our random meal of the day treat a Mocha Cupcake. This cupcake was part of a holiday cupcake bundle that was given to our department. Thank you again Heidi. Everyone, have a safe and wonderful holiday and Random Mealers, I will see you again next year!

Found at Cupcakes Couture in Manhattan Beach, California.

Nikon D7000, 40mm, f4.0, 1/160, iso 3200, +0.33ev

Wild White Prawns & Fresh Linguini at Paul Martin's American Bistro

2011-12-22T07:00:00.000-08:00

Our random meal of the day brings us an order of Wild White Prawns & Fresh Linguini. This random meal was actually our department's holiday lunch celebration. Thank you Heidi for buying us a fantastic lunch! The year is winding down and of course I was reflecting on all the wonderful random meals that I had this year. So, I repeated again because I really enjoy this dish and to change it up, I shot it with a Canon DSLR. The funny thing about large group outings is that you really do not get your choice of seat as our West Coast Boss sat it the perfectly shaded seat, while I got the ever changing moving sunlight and red awning shade.

Found at Paul Martin's American Bistro in El Segundo, California.

Canon 5D Mark II, 50mm, f4.0, 1/160, iso 100, +0.33ev

Ham and Cheese Croissant at Aux Delices Cafe

2011-12-21T07:08:00.000-08:00

Our random meal of the day brings us a Ham and Cheese Croissant Sandwich. I miss the fact that they no longer offer black forest ham. Yum...

Found at Aux Delices Cafe in Pasadena, California.

Canon 5D Mark II, 50mm, f4.0, 1/1250, iso 800

Cheese Burger at The Burger Shack

2011-12-18T07:09:00.000-08:00

Our random meal of the day brings us a Cheese Burger and as promised to a Random Mealer, it is shot with a Canon DSLR. The first time I ever had a cheeseburger here and I was looking at the burger and thinking something looks off. It tasted great but looked different. It finally hit me that they have the burger patty on top of the lettuce, tomatoes and onions. This burger perfectly fits the opposites between a Canon and a Nikon DSLR. They are both just backwards to each other in terms of function. For example, when you switch your camera lens, with the Canon you turn counterclockwise to the left and with the Nikon you turn clockwise to the right. The focus lock indicator is on the right for the Canon and on the left for the Nikon. In the end, both brands take fantastic photographs, but it is a usability difference. I also added some holiday cheer to today's random meal.

Found at The Burger Shack in Pasadena, California.

Canon 5D Mark II, 85mm, f2.0, 1/100, iso 800

Spam Musubi at L & L Hawaiian Barbecue

2011-12-15T07:01:00.000-08:00

Our random meal of the day brings us a Spam Musubi. This just hits the spot.
Yes, my new year's resolution will be no new cameras for 2012! Yikes!

Found at L & L Hawaiian Barbecue in Pasadena, CA.

Panasonic GF3, 25mm, f1.4, 1/125, iso 160, LED Video Lights

Chicken Vindaloo at Radhika Restaurant

2011-12-08T07:06:00.000-08:00

We have Chicken Vindaloo for our random meal of the day. The chicken vindaloo starts with boneless chicken pieces that are "cooked in a fiery red hot curry sauce." This modern Indian take has a spicy kick but does not burn. Some garlic Naan is the perfect complement to soak up the wonderful curry.

Found at Radhika Restaurant in South Pasadena, California.

Nikon D700, 50mm, f2.0, 1/80, iso 6400

Japanese Fried Chicken the Double Jane at FuRaiBo

2011-12-03T11:11:00.000-08:00

This is one of my most favorite random meals. I guess it is not so random if I eat it every few months. We have a fantastic order of the Double Jane which is two pieces of a Japanese style fried chicken breasts. I really like how the skin and the chicken become one. It is quite a crispy treat. The chicken has a sweet and savory kick to it. Delicious!

Found at FuRaiBo in Gardena, California.

Nikon D700, 85mm, f2.0, 1/125, iso 3600

Little Bacon Cheeseburger at Five Guys Burgers and Fries

2011-12-01T07:00:00.000-08:00

Our random meal of the day brings us the Little Bacon Cheeseburger. It is awesome that a Five Guys opened up near my office. It may not be the prettiest looking burger after getting the foil wrap treatment but that does not detract from how awesome this burger tastes. The "Little" size is just right!

Found at Five Guys Burgers and Fries in El Segundo, California.

Sony NEX-C3, 30mm, f4.0, 1/60, iso 250, +0.7ev

Trust The Cook Sandwich at Pasadena Sandwich Company

2011-11-27T07:59:00.000-08:00

We have for our random meal of the day an order of Trust The Cook Sandwich. This sandwich is piled a mile high with and I could not even bite into it even after squishing it hard. PSC describes the sandwich as "How He Feels Is What You Get..... And What You Get Is Big!!!" This monster of a delicious sandwich starts with wheat bread. You then start with a pile of roast beef that will make a normal sandwich whimper. Two slices of Swiss cheese is top on the huge pile of roast beef before the second slice of wheat bread is placed. We then add some lettuce and a slice of red onion. A few salami slices and cheddar cheese is the base before another the final pile of sliced turkey breast is placed on the sandwich and crowned with the final piece of toasted wheat bread. Fantastic!

Found at Pasadena Sandwich Company in Pasadena, California.

Sony NEX-C3, 30mm, f4.0, 1/500, iso 200

Pho Tai at Viet Huong Restaurant

2011-11-20T09:25:00.000-08:00

It is getting a bit chilly so to warm us up, we have a wonderful bowl of Pho Tai for our random meal of the day. This bowl of soup is fantastic because of the rich broth. The most interesting thing about Pho is how the meal is now presented compared to how the meal was presented in the past. Back in the days before restaurants in Los Angeles County were graded with a letter, the meat from the Pho Tai was actually presented to you on a side plate completely raw. You were then supposed to place the meat into the piping hot broth yourself so that you will get best experience possible. Now, that type of presentation is frowned upon because of some health codes and you will never get an "A" rating if you serve your food like how it was traditionally meant to be served. But alas, this bowl of Pho is now still delicious, it is just now different from my childhood memories.

Found at Viet Huong Restaurant in El Monte, California.

Nikon D700, 50mm, f4.0, 1/125, iso 720

Roasted Turkey Artichoke Panini at Panera Bread

2011-11-17T07:02:00.000-08:00

We have for our random meal of the day a Roasted Turkey Artichoke Panini. Our random meal today also brings yet another camera. The panini starts with an Asiago cheese focaccia and we layer on an artichoke-parmesan spread. We then add healthy serving of roasted turkey and finish it up with roasted red peppers, caramelized onions and a fresh vibrant baby spinach.

Found at Panera Bread in Los Angeles, California.

Sony NEX-C3, 30mm, f4.0, 1/200, iso 200, +0.3ev

Turkey Sausage & Cheddar Egg Mit Sandwich at Noah's Bagels

2011-11-15T07:00:00.000-08:00

This is my go to breakfast when I am in a rush and have limited time. We have for our random meal of the day a Turkey Sausage & Cheddar Egg Mit Sandwich on a toasted poppy seed bagel.

Found at Noah's Bagels in El Segundo, California.

(Nikon D700, 50mm, f4.0, 1/500, iso 200)

Shrimp Tempura Taco at Hot's Kitchen

2011-11-09T06:25:00.000-08:00

We have for our random meal of the day a Shrimp Tempura Taco. This gourmet taco is jammed packed full of flavor. I cannot believe how much of a favor burst that came from this single taco. The taco contains the following toppings, "avocado, enoki mushrooms, green onions, unagi sauce, chili-aioli, sesame seeds" in addition to the tempura shrimp. The taco is actually perfectly created and worth the premium price.

Found at Hot's Kitchen in Hermosa Beach, California.

(Nikon D700, 85mm, f2.0, 1/500, iso 200, +0.67ev)

Shio Tonkotsu Ramen at Ramen JINYA

2011-11-05T09:32:00.000-07:00

On a cool Autumn day, our random meal of the day is an order of Shio Tonkotsu Ramen. This bowl of decadent ramen is unique as they describe it as HAKATA Pork Premium rich broth and the restaurants actually limits the serving to only 20 per day. It has a rich flavor and hits the spot perfectly on a cold day. Ramen JINYA is also featured on Jonathan Gold's 99 Essential Restaurants list.

Found at Ramen JINYA in Studio City, California.

(Nikon D700, 50mm, f2.8, 1/80, iso 2000)

Chicken Tawook at Open Sesame Mediterranean Grill

2011-11-02T07:06:00.000-07:00

We have for our random meal of the day an order of the Chicken Tawook Entrée. We start with two skewers of a charbroiled chicken breast that is cubed and marinated. The chicken has a light and airy citrus lemon flavor. We place the Chicken Tawook on an optional bed of rice. A side of garlic sauce, hummus, and a Mediterranean side salad completes this random meal.

Found at Open Sesame Mediterranean Grill in Manhattan Beach, California.

(Nikon D700, 50mm, f5.6, 1/160, iso 200)

Pumpkin Cream Puffs at Beard Papa's

2011-10-31T07:01:00.000-07:00

Happy Halloween! For our semi Halloween themed random meal of the day treat, we have a single Pumpkin Cream Puff. This light and delicious treat takes the original custard cream and blends it with a pumpkin puree to make a light flavorful treat. It is extra creamy with a light pumpkin flavor. Random Mealers have a fun and safe Happy Halloween!

Found at Beard Papa's in Pasadena, California.

(Nikon D700, 105mm, f4.0, 1/125, iso 2200, +1.33ev, LED Backlit)

Golden McRib at McDonald's

2011-10-27T07:02:00.000-07:00

The McRib is back! Ahh, this year's theme is the Golden McRib and this is what we have for our random meal of the day. Yes, I am a bit of a McRib fanatic. Why not, it is the McRib! Awesome!

Found at McDonald's in Pasadena, California.

(Nikon D700, 60mm, f4.0, 1/80, iso 1400, +1.0ev)

Count Montrose Cristo at Black Cow Cafe

2011-10-25T07:01:00.000-07:00

We have for our random meal of the day an order of the Count Montrose Cristo Sandwich. The sandwich name is a fun twist on the Monte Cristo sandwich with name of the city inserted instead. This decadent sandwich is starts with smoked turkey and then layered with a sweet honey-ham. We then double up the cheese with a slice of cheddar and a slice of Swiss. Finally we layer the meats and the cheese together between a Hawaiian style egg bread and dipped in an egg batter and then it is promptly fried until crispy on the outside and moist and tender on the inside. You end up with harmony between the semi-sweet and savory treat that just seems to work. For the extra kick, we have side of cran-strawberry jam. It is almost like a sweet and savory french toast.

Found at Black Cow Cafe in Montrose, California.

(Nikon D700, 85mm, f4.0, 1/125, iso 1600, +0.33ev)

Blueberry Jelly Doughnut at Dough Boy Doughnuts

2011-10-23T07:04:00.000-07:00

Yummy! We have for our random meal of the day breakfast treat, a melts in your mouth Blueberry Jelly Doughnut. This has to be one of the softest jelly doughnuts that I have ever ate. I took such willpower to not order a second and a third and a fourth....

Found at Dough Boy Doughnuts in El Segundo, California.

(Nikon D7000, 35mm, f4.0, 1/80, iso 125, +0.67ev)

Spinach Sweet Crisp Salad at Corner Bakery Cafe

2011-10-19T07:04:00.000-07:00

We have a Spinach Sweet Crisp Salad for our random meal of the day. This light and refreshing salad weighs in at only 470 calories. We start with a bed of baby spinach. We then mix the salad together with strawberry slices, red grapes, oranges, and dried cranberries. We then add some green onions and a good sprinkling of creamy goat cheese. Finally a crumble of raisin pecan sweet crisps is added and an awesome pomegranate vinaigrette dressing is drizzled over the salad to bind it together.

Found at Corner Bakery Cafe in Manhattan Beach, California.

(Nikon D7000, 85mm, f4.0, 1/200, iso 180, +0.67ev)

Chocolate Chocolate Buttercream Cupcake for National Chocolate Cupcake Day at Frosted Cupcakery

2011-10-18T07:00:00.000-07:00

Happy National Chocolate Cupcake Day! For this food holiday we have the Chocolate Chocolate Buttercream Cupcake. This awesome super chocolate cupcake just hits the spot for this food holiday! Random Mealers, don't forget to go out and celebrate National Chocolate Cupcake Day!

Found at Frosted Cupcakery in Long Beach, California.

(Nikon D700, 60mm, f4.0, 1/80, iso 2000)

Peking Duck with Buns at Top Island Seafood

2011-10-16T13:33:00.000-07:00

Congratulations Wayne and Sandy on your wedding yesterday! It was gorgeous event and we thank you for allowing us to join you on your special day. Today we showcase a fantastic order of Peking Duck with Buns. The reception was a Chinese banquet and we had all they typical fare such as a gigantic lobster and shark fin soup. For me, I really enjoy the Peking Duck with Buns. I believe that the moist delectable bun is why I really enjoy this dish. We start with the fantastic bun and you top it with a piece of a crispy peking duck skin along with a small amount of duck. A slice of green onions and a dab of hoisin sauce. Also since the table was food of food, I decided to isolate the dish by shooting wide open at f1.4 which gave the dish a unique look.

Found at Top Island Seafood Restaurant in Alhambra, California.

(Nikon D700, 85mm, f1.4, 1/125, iso 320)

Blueberry Funnel Cake for National Dessert Day

2011-10-14T07:08:00.000-07:00

Today is October 14 and it is National Dessert Day! We finish up the week with another random food holiday. We have randomly for national dessert day an order of a Blueberry Funnel Cake. Yes, random meal of the day is on quite a food holiday kick this week. Be sure to embrace and enjoy National Dessert Day with your random dessert of choice!

Found randomly in Los Angeles, California.

(Nikon D700, 35mm, f5.6, 1/200, iso 200, +0.67ev)

House Gumbo for National Gumbo Day at Oyster Bar

2011-10-12T07:03:00.000-07:00

Happy National Gumbo Day! I know, four food holiday celebrations in a row. We have the House Gumbo for our random meal of the day. This stick to your rib gumbo is spectacular. It is more than an hour of standing in line to wait until they freshly create this bowl of gumbo right in front of you. It is so worth the wait. Now go out and celebrate National Gumbo Day!

Found at Oyster Bar in Las Vegas, Nevada.

(Nikon D700, 50mm, f4.0, 1/80, iso 2800)

Firehouse Pizza for National Sausage Pizza Day at Shakey's Pizza

2011-10-11T07:04:00.000-07:00

Happy National Sausage Pizza Day! For the third food holiday in a row, random meal of the day presents a slice of Firehouse Pizza. This fantastic pizza slice has two types of sausage. We have hot sliced sausage links along with spicy Italian sausage. This is great way to celebrate National Sausage Pizza Day.

Found at Shakey's Pizza in Culver City, California.

(Nikon D700, 50mm, f2.8, 1/80, iso 1000)

Angel Food Cake for National Angel Food Cake Day

2011-10-10T07:03:00.000-07:00

Happy National Angel Food Cake Day! For this food holiday, random meal of the day presents an Angel Food Cake. This is one of those awesome cakes that you try to resist buying when you are at the supermarket but then you just cannot resist.

Found randomly in Los Angeles, California.

(Nikon D700, 50mm, f5.6, 1/60, iso 6400)

Lee's Special Hoagie for Submarine-Hoagie-Hero-Grinder Day at Lee's Hoagie House

2011-10-09T08:11:00.000-07:00

Happy Submarine-Hoagie-Hero-Grinder Day! For this special food holiday, random meal of the day presents the Lee's Special Hoagie. This is an awesome food holiday that encompasses the different regions of the United States. Depending on where you are located, your special mouth watering sandwich is named just a tad bit differently. So Random Mealers, go out and enjoy the sandwich of your choice today for this wonderful food holiday and depending on where you are, that Submarine, Hoagie, Hero, or Grinder will make it a special and happy Submarine-Hoagie-Hero-Grinder Day!

Found at Lee's Hoagie House in Pasadena, California.

(Nikon D700, 60mm, f8.0, 1/80, iso 6400)

Curried Chicken Sandwich at Tin Roof Bistro

2011-10-07T07:07:00.000-07:00

Our random meal of the day brings us the Curried Chicken Sandwich. I actually had this sandwich twice and it both times the sandwich was spectacular. The sandwich is actually called the "Curried Chicken, Grape, Apple & Pecan Sandwich". This combination just works.

Found at Tin Roof Bistro in Manhattan Beach, California.

(Nikon D700, 85mm, f2.8, 1/125, iso 500)

The Soup Tasting Flight at The Soup Bar

2011-10-06T07:02:00.000-07:00

Our random meal of the day brings us a trio of soup! This is perfect for a cold and rainy Southern California Day. We have the Soup Tasting Flight which allows you to sample more than one random flavor. We start with a delicious classic Chicken Noodle soup. We then kick it up a notch with a Sweet Potato Rosemary soup that is drizzled with a splash of balsamic vinegar. We end the soup flight with a hearty Turkey Chili that has a healthy sprinkling of cheddar cheese. A slice of artisan Rosemary-Sage bread is served on the side and is perfect for soaking up the wonderful soups.

Found at The Soup Bar in El Segundo, California.

(Nikon D7000, 40mm, f3.0, 1/80, iso 280, +0.67ev)

Puerto Lobster Tacos for National Taco Day at Sharkeez

2011-10-04T06:17:00.000-07:00

Happy National Taco Day! We have an order of the Puerto Lobster Tacos for our random meal of the day food holiday! These taco starts with some slipper lobster that is lightly battered and flash fried. We top the tacos with a jalapeño tarter sauce and sprinkled with cheese. These awesome tacos are a perfect way to celebrate not only National Taco Day but also Taco Tuesday!

Found at Sharkeez in Manhattan Beach, California.

(Nikon D700, 60mm, f4.0, 1/80, iso 360, +0.33ev)

Sweet Crepe with Strawberry & Strawberry Gelato at Four Leaf Tea and Crepes

2011-10-02T07:02:00.000-07:00

We have a Sweet Crepe with Strawberry and Strawberry Gelato. This is a freshly prepared crepe that starts with a scoop of a fantastic scoop of strawberry gelato. We then add a layer of whipped cream and then layer fresh slices of strawberries. We then wrap up the crepe into a cone shape for easy consumption. Fantastic!

Found at Four Leaf Tea and Crepes in Los Angeles, California.

(Nikon D700, 60mm, f5.6, 1/80, iso 320, 0.33ev)

Garlic Shrimp Pizza at Sammy's Woodfired Pizza

2011-09-30T07:13:00.000-07:00

We have a Garlic Shrimp Pizza for our random meal of the day. This is a personal sized pizza with a wonderful wood fired baked pizza crust. We top the pizza with garlic shrimp, mushrooms, red onions, bell peppers and a roasted garlic sauce.

Found at Sammy's Woodfired Pizza in El Segundo, California.

(Nikon D700, 85mm, f2.8, 1/500, iso 200, +0.33ev)

Ham & Cheese Empanada at Nonna's Empanadas

2011-09-29T07:11:00.000-07:00

We have a Ham & Cheese Empanada for our random meal of the day. I really like how they stamp their name into the empanada. They also stamp the actual filling so there is no mistake even though each of the different empanadas are folded uniquely.

Found at Nonna's Empanadas in Los Angeles, California.

(Nikon D700, 35mm, f2.8, 1/500, iso 200, +0.33ev)

Hot Link Sandwich at Johnny Memphis Smokehouse Barbeque

2011-09-28T07:03:00.000-07:00

We have for our random meal of the day a glorious Hot Link Sandwich. This bad boy is just so awesome that no more words are necessary!

Found at Johnny Memphis Smokehouse Barbeque in Manhattan Beach, California.

(Nikon D700, 60mm, f8.0, 1/80, iso 360, +0.67ev)

Prime Steak Salad at LA Food Show

2011-09-27T07:13:00.000-07:00

We have the Prime Steak Salad for our random meal of the day. If a salad contain wonderful steak, is it still considered healthy? The salad starts with grilled sliced steak on a bed of spring lettuce mix. Sun-dried tomatoes and crumbled Gorgonzola cheese are sprinkled over the lettuce. The final touch is the salad is topped with a nice helping of buttermilk-battered onion rings and gives the salad the extra kick!

Found at LA Food Show in Manhattan Beach, California.

(Nikon D700, 50mm, f4.0, 1/80, iso 2800)

M & H Special Shaved Ice at Milk + Honey

2011-09-25T07:22:00.000-07:00

We have for our random meal of the day treat an order of the M & H Special Shaved Ice. This fantastically awesome shaved ice starts with the special strawberry ice. The center of this wonderful treat contains a tart frozen yogurt. We top the strawberry ice with a wonderful assortment of strawberry, kiwi, mochi, banana and azuki sweet beans. This random meal treat is just over the top!

Found at Milk + Honey in Costa Mesa, California.

(Nikon D700, 60mm, f8.0, 1/80, iso 1600)

Classic Cobb Salad at Quiznos

2011-09-23T07:11:00.000-07:00

Funny thing when one of my coworkers asked me what I was going to do for lunch after finding out about my food blog, random meal of the day, I told him a salad. He said that is just too normal. Well, when you salad contains a heaping serving of bacon, maybe it just hits the spot. We have the Classic Cobb Salad for our random meal.

Found at Quiznos in El Segundo, California.

(Nikon D700, 50mm, f5.6, 1/80, iso 640)

Pastrami Dip at Gene's Grinders

2011-09-22T07:11:00.000-07:00

Our random meal of the day brings us back home to Sunny Southern California. We have a thinly sliced Pastrami Dip Sandwich. This is actually so fantastically good. The razor thin pastrami literally just melts into your mouth. It is just a smooth sandwich and this is the best way I can think to describe it. Fantastic!

Found at Gene's Grinders in Monrovia, California.

(Nikon D700, 85mm, f2.8, 1/250, iso 200)

Roast Pork Banh Mi at Saigon Sandwich

2011-09-21T07:04:00.000-07:00

Our random meal of the day brings us a Roast Pork Banh Mi Sandwich. San Francisco has such fantastic bread and I am a big fan of bread so of course another sandwich makes sense of me. This sandwich is actually listed on "San Francisco 7x7, The 2011 Big Eat SF: 100 Things to Try Before You D**" list. The list gives you such a diverse sampling of the city. You get some fancy meals and some not so fancy meals but it seems to just work. As long as the food is good, then it makes the list. I actually had this sandwich before on my last trip to the city and it made perfect sense to grab it to go on the long road trip home this time around. This is a fantastic Banh Mi Sandwich.

Found at Saigon Sandwich in San Francisco, California.

(Nikon D700, 60mm, f5.6, 1/80, iso 720, +0.33ev)

Miso Nabeyaki Udon at Suzu Noodle House

2011-09-20T07:17:00.000-07:00

Our random meal of the day brings us Miso Nabeyaki Udon. This order of udon starts with a rich savory miso broth in a hot pot. We then add a healthy portion fantastic udon. We then add tofu, an assortment of veggies and half a boiled egg. The final touch is a shrimp tempura and some veggie tempura. This random meal was great during a cold San Francisco night.

Found at Suzu Noodle House in San Francisco, California.

(Nikon D700, 50mm, f4.0, 1/80, iso 1800)

Palmier at Anderson Bakery

2011-09-18T07:30:00.000-07:00

Our random meal of the day treat brings us a Palmier. This crispy crunchy sugary sweet treat just meets so many sensations. This is actually one of my favorite childhood treats and still brings a smile to my face. Yummy!

Found at Anderson Bakery in San Francisco, California.

(Nikon D700, 50mm, f2.8, 1/125, iso 200)

Stuffed Artichoke with Bay Shrimp at Woodhouse Fish Co

2011-09-16T07:09:00.000-07:00

I had previously featured this random meal the last time I had visited San Francisco but it was so good, I decided to eat the same not so random meal again for this foodcation. We have for our random meal of the day an order of Stuffed Artichoke with Bay Shrimp. We start with a fresh large artichoke and then split it in half. It is then grilled to a smoky perfection. The grilling brings out a rustic smoky richness to the artichoke and each layer is just as awesome as the last. One half of the artichoke is filled with large bay shrimp while the other half is filled with large Dungeness crab. The grilled stuffed artichoke is placed on fresh salad and served with a side of crispy cheesy garlic bread. The funniest part of this photo opp was that it was pouring rain right outside that seemed to catch a bunch of San Francisco folks and we were actually lucky to make it inside the restaurant before it really started to pour. Good thing my camera bag is waterproof-ish I think...

Found at Woodhouse Fish Co in San Francisco, California.

(Nikon D700, 85mm, f4.0, 1/125, iso 560, +0.33ev)

Dim Sum takeout mix at Good Mong Kok Bakery

2011-09-15T07:04:00.000-07:00

Our random meal today brings us a random mix of Dim Sum as a takeout. The best thing about this takeout mix was that we were able to order exactly what we wanted one piece at a time. It also was a light breakfast which enabled us to eat more food later in the day during our foodcation. The funniest part of this meal is that we actually went to buy a plate so that we can place the takeout order on during our vacation to enhance the picture ;)

Food at Good Mong Kok Bakery in San Francisco, California.

(Nikon D700, 50mm, f5.6, 1/500, iso 200, +0.33ev)

Bavarian Cream Donut for National Cream Filled Donut Day at The Donut Man

2011-09-14T07:53:00.000-07:00

Today is September 14th and it is National Cream Filled Donut Day! For this food holiday, random meal of the day brings us the most decadent Bavarian Cream Donut strobist style. This is one premium cream filled donut and is just fantastic. Once again Random Mealers, go out today and enjoy the food holiday!

Found at the Donut Man in Glendora, California.

(Nikon D700, 105mm, f5.6, 1/125, iso 400, multiple flashes used)

Shrimp & Grits at Brenda's French Soul Food

2011-09-13T07:03:00.000-07:00

This is actually the first time that I have ever tried having some grits. Funny thing is these are not just some ordinary grits but a very wonderful cheesy concoction. We have for our random meal of the day an order of Shrimp & Grits. This breakfast plate that starts with some good old grits that are just waiting to be soaked up in flavor. The start of the grits flavoring is a generous serving of cheddar cheese. The cheese melts into the grits to create this delicious sticky and gooey blend that stretches halfway from the plate to your mouth watering mouth. We then add spicy tomato-bacon gravy on to the top layer of cheese to intensify the grits. We finally top the grits with large juicy sautéed shrimp to complete our random meal.

Found at Brenda's French Soul Food in San Francisco, California.

(Nikon D700, 50mm, f5.6, 1/80, iso 1250)

Salame Sandwich at Acme Bread Company

2011-09-12T07:08:00.000-07:00

Our random meal of the day brings us a Salame Sandwich. I remember the last time I was at the Acme Bread Company this sandwich actually sold out so I ate a whole 3 foot baguette instead. This time around, I was able to score the elusive sandwich. Oh it was so worth the wait. This is an absolutely delicious sandwich.

Found at Acme Bread Company in San Francisco, California.

(Nikon D700, 35mm, f5.6, 1/160, iso 200)

Roast Pork Sandwich at Bun Mee

2011-09-08T07:13:00.000-07:00

We have a Roast Pork Sandwich for our random meal of the day as we continue our foodcation. This is no ordinary bahn mi or “Bun Mee” sandwich. The sandwich is more upscale based on the quality of the sandwich and the price. The Roast Pork Sandwich starts with a super special moist and tender wonderfully seasoned sliced roast pork that is placed on a fresh crispy toasted baguette. We now add a spread of garlic aioli to give the sandwich a robust flavor. The sandwich is complete when topped with pickled carrot & daikon, slice cucumber, jalapenos, cilantro and for the extra kick, some finely shaved onions. The sandwich is so good that you may be craving a second serving.

Found at Bun Mee in San Francisco, California.

(Nikon D700, 50mm, f5.6, 1/80, iso 1100, +0.33ev)

Katanaya Ramen at Katana-Ya

2011-09-07T07:11:00.000-07:00

Our foodcation continues with the Katanaya Ramen for our random meal of the day. This order of ramen is so good! It is always intriguing when a dish is the same name as the restaurant. Good thing this bowl of ramen lives up to the hype of the namesake. It was actually way past the lunch hour rush when we went to Katana-Ya at 2PM. I was hoping that we would not have to embrace the long lines. Well, no such luck as a table of two was still a 45 minute wait. Oh, it was so worth the wait. This bowl of ramen would actually make my personal final round of the best ramen that I have ever eaten. I would say my 2nd favorite. The ramen starts with some perfectly cooked ramen noodles. You then add fried chicken, BBQ pork, fried pot stickers, half a boiled egg, seaweed, corn, bamboo shoots and finally garnished with scallion. This whole wonderful concoction is placed in a rich miso broth that just enhances the entire order of Katanaya Ramen. I cannot believe that I've been to San Francisco so many times and all those times that I missed out on this perfect ramen spot kind of makes me sad...

Found at Katana-Ya in San Francisco, California.

(Nikon D700, 35mm, f4.0, 1/80, iso 1250)

The Dala Horse Swedish Lunch Special at The Dala Horse

2011-08-30T07:13:00.000-07:00

Road trip time! This is the final week before the Labor Day holiday and your last chance to enjoy the summer break. This was actually a previous road trip up to the San Francisco Bay area. You actually have three choices on the route up north from Los Angeles, California. I had already tried previously going up the Pacific Coast Highway or the US Route 1 and the quicker Interstate 5. For this random road trip we mix it up and take Highway 99 up north. Route 99 brings us to our first pit stop in this quaint Swedish town of Kingsburg and our first random meal.

We have for today, The Dala Horse Swedish Lunch Special. This is their specialty of the house and is just awesome. This unique treat starts with a Swedish potato sausage and then you add some Swedish Meatballs. A side of lingonberry sauce is ready to coat the sausage and meatballs. We then have some toasted orange rye bread and a change up of fries instead of potato salad. Finally we have a fantastic rice pudding to complete our random meal.

Random Mealers please enjoy the final days of summer. I will be back next week as I am going on another foodcation this week!

Found at The Dala Horse in Kingsburg, CA.

(Nikon D700, 85mm, f2.8, 1/200, iso 200)

Lomo Saltado at Mario's Peruvian Restaurant

2011-08-26T07:08:00.000-07:00

We have the Lomo Saltado for our random meal of the day. This has to be the best place for the Lomo Saltado in my opinion. Stuck in the middle of an indiscreet mini mall we have Mario's Peruvian Restaurant. I have had the Lomo Saltado at other restaurants before and it has always been good but Mario's takes it to the next level. This meal just seems so simple but the way it all blends together is where the magic is. We start with strips of seasoned beef, and with mix it together with french fries, red onions, tomatoes, and parsley. I believe that everything is sautéed together with some extra secret spices and it just makes your mouth happy. Mario's version of the Lomo Saltado is a bit more saucy and this is a good thing. The extra moisture is extra awesome flavoring. This is truly a fantastic random meal!

Found at Mario's Peruvian & Seafood Restaurant in Los Angeles, CA.

(Nikon D700, 50mm, f2.8, 1/80, iso 800)

Mesquite Grilled Salmon at Fishbar

2011-08-25T07:14:00.000-07:00

We have the Mesquite Grilled Salmon for our random meal of the day. This is another RMOTD Photographer edition as the Salmon was the more photogenic dish. I actually came here with three of my coworkers and they all ordered the salmon and I had to be different and order a random meal. The salmon has a slightly smoky flavor and was cooked perfectly until it melted like butter in your mouth. The side of Caesar salad is lighter than a traditional recipe and also adds Parmesan crisps. The lightness of the salad along with the excellent salmon makes this random meal a healthy one at least for my coworkers.

Found at Fishbar in Manhattan Beach, CA.

(Nikon D700, 50mm, f4.0, 1/80, iso 640)

**RMOTD Photographer**

Cornmeal Jalapeño Waffle for National Waffle Day at The Waffle

2011-08-24T06:28:00.000-07:00

Random Meal of the Day brings an order of the Cornmeal Jalapeño Waffle for National Waffle Day. Yes, August 24th is in fact national waffle day. There is a food holiday controversy as some sites list the wrong day national waffle day. To add to the confusion, there is also another date for "International Waffle Day." So back the featured waffle. We start with a cornmeal waffle infused with diced jalapeños mixed into the batter and baked into a crispy waffle. The jalapeños mixed into the waffle gives it a subtle kick without overpowering the waffle flavor. We then added a crispy boneless fried chicken breast covered with a white sawmill gravy. Finally a side of bacon infused greens completes this random meal. So Random Mealers, go out today and enjoy National Waffle day with a southern style waffle treat or a completely random waffle twist!

Found at The Waffle in Hollywood, CA.

(Nikon D700, 50mm, f4.0, 1/250, iso 200, +0.33ev)

Baked Creme Brulee French Toast at Julienne

2011-08-23T07:07:00.000-07:00

A great breakfast in the middle of the week is always an awesome thing. Today for our random meal of the day we have a Baked Creme Brûlée French Toast. This is definitely the most interesting take on french toast that I've ever had. The texture was different that what I was imagining when I think creme brûlée. It is more silky smooth and melts in your mouth and not crunchy like I expected. It is so much more decadent than a traditional french toast. It was almost dessert like which is a good thing. The french toast is covered with a fresh strawberry sauce and creme anglaise which was just an awesome finishing touch.

Found at Julienne in San Marino, CA.

(Nikon D700, 60mm, f5.6, 1/80, iso 800, +0.67ev)

ROCK'N Crab Cakes at Rock'N Fish

2011-08-22T06:53:00.000-07:00

An order of ROCK'N Crab Cakes highlights our random meal of the day. This is the lunch size portion consisting of two moist and tender crab cakes. We add two grilled vegetable skewers and a wonderful side of crispy sweet potato fries. After you get to enjoy this random meal, you then get to enjoy a gorgeous beach view.

Found at Rock'N Fish in Manhattan Beach, CA.

(Nikon D700, 85mm, f4.0, 1/160, iso 200, +0.66ev)

Cajun Scrambled at Cajun Kitchen Cafe

2011-08-19T07:01:00.000-07:00

We have the Cajun Scrambled for our random meal of the day. The Cajun scrambled for some reason just hits the spot each and every single time. Normally I would drive all the way out to Carpinteria, California just to eat breakfast at Cajun Kitchen Cafe and then head north to spend a day at Santa Barbara. For this random meal, I decided to head to Ventura for a Day Trip and any good day trip starts off with wonderful breakfast. The Cajun scrambled seems just so simple. We start with two scrambled eggs mixed with some spicy diced hot sausage. We then blend in some cheddar cheese into the scrambled eggs for just the right extra kick. Finally we have side of potatoes to round out another awesome random meal.

Found at Cajun Kitchen Cafe in Ventura, CA.

(Nikon D700, 50mm, f5.6, 1/80, iso 640)

Ropa Vieja at Habana

2011-08-18T07:11:00.000-07:00

We have for our random meal of the day a marvelous order of Ropa Vieja. Ropa Vieja is a dish consisting of a shredded Cuban beef pot roast. The beef has a semi sweet flavor and also has a spicy kick blended in. We start with of course a slowly roasted beef and mixed with roasted red peppers, tomatoes, garlic and onion. The Ropa Vieja is served with a side black beans and rice. To complete the random meal we have a side of maduros plantains prepared two different fashion. You get one serving extra crispy and one serving melt in your mouth soft. This is another awesome random meal.

Found at Habana in Costa Mesa, CA.

(Nikon D700, 85mm, f4.0, 1/125, iso 500)

Chicken Apple Sausage Scramble Crepe at La Galette Creperie

2011-08-17T07:01:00.000-07:00

We have another Random Meal of the Day Photographer edition with an order of a Chicken Apple Sausage Scramble Crepe. It was kind of funny, because it was actually breakfast time when we arrive at this restaurant and I went straight for the dessert crepe while my friend had a delicious savory breakfast crepe.

Found at La Galette Creperie in San Clemente, CA.

(Nikon D700, 50mm, f4.0, 1/500, iso 200)

**RMOTD Photographer**

Whopper at Burger King

2011-08-16T07:19:00.000-07:00

We have the Whopper for today's random meal. Funny thing is that this is my third ever Whopper. I always seem to gravitate towards the chicken sandwiches whenever I visit Burger King. Today's photo was shot for the first time using a generic led video light with a large umbrella diffusing the light overhead of the Whopper. I also used a reflector to try to lift the shadows but I think I need a second light source to make the food pop. Funny thing is that it would have been easier to use a couple of external speedlights. I did gain more than two stops of light using the led video light vs just using the available ambient kitchen lights. I am just having fun with my random meal today.

Found at Burger King in Pasadena, CA.

(Nikon D700, 105mm, f5.6, 1/160, iso 2800)

Fantastic French Toast at Marston's Restaurant

2011-08-14T06:19:00.000-07:00

We have an order of the Fantastic French Toast for our random meal of the day. Yes the french toast is in fact fantastic. We start with two slices of thick cut sourdough bread that is dipped in an egg batter and then rolled in corn flakes. The french toast is then sprinkled with powder sugar and topped with fresh strawberries. The Fantastic French Toast has this delightful crispy outer crunchy crust. The crispy toasted corn flakes shell really give the french toast a unique twist. The french toast was voted "Best Breakfast in California" by the Food Network Magazine in 2010. Awesome!

Found at Marston's Restaurant in Pasadena, CA.

(Nikon D700, 85mm, f4.0, 1/160, iso 1250, +0.33ev)

Ramsay's Fresh Crab & Angel Hair Pasta at Lido Restaurant

2011-08-12T07:08:00.000-07:00

We have an order of the Ramsay's Fresh Crab & Angel Hair Pasta for our random meal of the day. Lido was actually featured on Chef Gordon Ramsay's Kitchen Nightmare twice. The second time was for revisit and the owner passed with flying colors. Well, I finally decided to try out the restaurant and guess who seated me, the owner! I was actually able to meet someone famous that was featured on a food show! Our light and refreshing order of starts with a bed of Angel hair pasta with a lobster reduction sauce. The pasta is flavored with chili, garlic, scallions and basil. A healthy portion of crab is sprinkled on top of the pasta and completes our random meal.

Found at Lido Restaurant in Manhattan Beach, CA.

(Nikon D700, 85mm, f4.0, 1/125, iso 220, +0.33ev)

BBQ Wonton with Egg Noodle Soup (Mi Hoanh Thanh Xa Xiu) at Pho Thai Long

2011-08-11T07:21:00.000-07:00

We have BBQ Wonton with Egg Noodle Soup today for our random meal. The menu also lists this as Mi Hoanh Thanh Xa Xiu. I actually been to this restaurant twice already and yesterday was going to be the third visit but unfortunately I found out that the restaurant had closed down. I think that it is always a sad day when a restaurant closes. Sometime it is not really the food but the location and lack of foot traffic in the area that causes this sad event. On both occasions here the food was excellent. At least we have a photo to remember this delicious random meal.

Found at Pho Thai Long in Hawthorne, CA.

(Nikon D700, 50mm, f5.6, 1/80, iso 1000)

Pasta Pancetta at Fritto Misto

2011-08-10T07:00:00.000-07:00

Pasta Pancetta is our featured random meal of the day. This is an interesting random meal as in my mind the dish is "Bacon Pasta" which will be awesome. The good thing is that this dish is really more than just about the Pancetta. The dish gives us more of a complex taste than meets the eye. We start with Pancetta which is an Italian version of bacon. The main difference between Pancetta and bacon is that you get more of a smokey favor from bacon while the Pancetta gives more of a pure pork flavor. We then add caramelized onions and sundried tomatoes. The tomatoes and onions cut into the richness of the Pancetta and balances it out. Finally we add this awesome garlic cream sauce onto a wonderful tomato fettuccini pasta. The flavored fettuccini is the extra kick that really enhances this random meal.

Found at Fritto Misto in Hermosa Beach, CA.

(Nikon D700, 85mm, f2.8, 1/160, iso 800)

Mongolian BBQ at Gobi Mongolian BBQ House

2011-08-09T06:55:00.000-07:00

We have Mongolian BBQ for our random meal of the day. I still remember the very first time I ever had a some Mongolian BBQ. I was expecting the more typical ribs and whatnot and ran into something a bit more random. This was way back when they didn't have the Mongolian BBQ chains in the malls. Now it is more common but it does not mean that you can't give your craving a more upscale dining experience. This is where Gobi Mongolian BBQ House shines. You still get to create your own random creation but it is really up to you to make your creation shine. I believe that is Fiery Mongolian BBQ plate does shine as it is featured in Popular Plates magazine.

Found at Gobi Mongolian BBQ House in Los Angeles, CA.

(Nikon D700, 105mm, f5.6, 1/125, iso 2000, +0.33ev)

Chef's Salad at Fresh & Easy

2011-08-08T07:02:00.000-07:00

We have a light and refreshing Chef's Salad for today's random meal. Sometimes a quick lunch can hit the spot. The chef's salad has ham, turkey, boiled egg, carrots, cheese and of course lettuce. This is my go to random meal.

Found at Fresh & Easy in El Segundo, CA.

(Nikon D700, 50mm, f4.0, 1/250, iso 200, +0.33ev)

Choco Taco

2011-08-07T07:12:00.000-07:00

We have the Choco Taco for our random meal of the day treat. This is a fun treat that was calling my name. Awesome!

Found at a random Ice Cream Truck in Los Angeles, CA.

(Nikon D700, 35mm, f5.6, 1/250, iso 200, +0.33ev)

Miso Seabass & Tempura at Katsu

2011-08-05T07:19:00.000-07:00

We have a Miso Seabass & Tempura for our random meal of the day. Another day and another adventure. I actually found this restaurant on Yelp and for some reason I have never ever seen it before even though I have passed by it at least a dozen times. After trying the wrong door we finally found Katsu. Good thing I found the restaurant as I really wanted to try the Japanese seabass. We have a savory grilled miso marinated seabass that is light and refreshing. We pair the Japanese seabass with an assortment of veggie tempura and a bonus shrimp tempura. You leave satisfied after eating a light and refreshing random meal.

Found at Katsu in Manhattan Beach, CA.

(Nikon D700, 85mm, f4.0, 1/125, iso 450)

Chicken Mole Enchiladas at La Sirena Grill

2011-08-04T07:02:00.000-07:00

Our random meal of the day brings us some Chicken Mole Enchiladas. I have been wanting to try my first ever Mole sauce for the longest time now but I haven't randomly run into this yet until today. I initially was all set to order some fajitas with some grass fed carne asada until I read the additional menu with several more dishes and I saw it, Chicken Mole Enchiladas. I was sold! The enchiladas starts with grilled white meat chicken wrapped in a corn tortilla. Jack cheese along with a smoky semi sweet chocolate mole sauce is poured over the enchiladas. We then garnish the dish with chopped red onions, cilantro and sprinkled with a queso fresco cheese. One adventure down, countless more random meals to go...

Found at La Sirena Grill & Cantina in El Segundo, CA.

(Nikon D700, 85mm, f4.0, 1/125, iso 200, +0.33ev)

Arroz Con Pollo Plate at Sol y Luna

2011-08-03T07:13:00.000-07:00

We have an order of the Arroz Con Pollo Plate for our random meal of the day. The Arroz Con Pollo is chicken and rice. I remember the first time I really started paying attention to the actual name of a chicken and rice dish after watching an episode of "Throwdown with Bobby Flay" and they featured the Arroz Con Pollo. The only problem is that the restaurant was located in New York and I am located in California. Ever since then, I have been on the lookout for some really good Arroz Con Pollo in California. So off I drive 27 miles to the "Valley" to order a plate of Arroz Con Pollo. The was actually so good. It seems like such a simple concept and needs to be executed well. Fortunately for me, this was an awesome dish and so worth the drive.

Found at Sol y Luna in Tarzana, CA.

(Nikon D700, 35mm, f5.6, 1/50, iso 1000)

Bacon Swiss Crispy Chicken Sandwich at Carl's Jr

2011-08-02T07:12:00.000-07:00

I was watching this new show "Suits" and one of character Rachel who happens to be the resident foodie had a very interesting line. "Being a foodie doesn't mean only liking fancy food." So for our not fancy food and a meal that I enjoy, we have the Bacon Swiss Crispy Chicken Sandwich for our random meal of the day. Everything just seems to be better with bacon. Yum!

Found at Carl's Jr in Pasadena, CA.

(Nikon D700, 105mm, f4.0, 1/125, iso 5600)

Pho Bo Vien (Beef Ball) takeout at Golden Deli

2011-08-01T07:05:00.000-07:00

We have an order of Pho Bo Vien or Pho Beef Ball for our random meal of the day. It is kind of funny how sometimes you want to try an item but you really are not in the mood to wait. Good thing restaurants invented the takeout order. I was actually browsing Jonathan's Gold 99 Essential Restaurants for 2010 and saw that Golden Deli was on the list. The funny thing is for years this restaurant always seemed to have a long line and this list just may have made it longer. So, takeout it is.

Found at Golden Deli in San Gabriel, CA.

(Sony A55, 30mm, f5.6, 1/50, iso 500)

Raspberry Cheese Danish at Anderson Bakery

2011-07-31T06:44:00.000-07:00

We have a fantastic Raspberry Cheese Danish for our random meal of the day treat. The danish starts with a wonderful flaky crust and filled with a semi sweet cream cheese. We add a layer of a tart raspberry jam to give the cheese danish some punch. A hearty layer of powder sugar coats one side of the wonderful flaky crust to give your sweet tooth a treat. This is a pleasant way to start off your day.

Found at Anderson Bakery in San Francisco, CA.

(Nikon D700, 50mm, f4.0, 1/500, iso 200, +0.67ev)

White Chrysanthemum Tea at Asian Art Museum

2011-07-30T07:47:00.000-07:00

Sometimes a cup of tea is just refreshing. After touring a entire museum, it also becomes a thirst quencher. Today we have an order of a White Chrysanthemum Tea for our random meal of the day tea time. Slow down and take a break.

Found at the Asian Art Museum in San Francisco, CA.

(Nikon D700, 35mm, f2.8, 1/100, iso 200)

King Kobe the IV Burger at 26 Beach Restaurant

2011-07-29T07:03:00.000-07:00

We have the King Kobe the IV Burger. This fantastic burger starts with 8 oz of Wagyu Beef! Yes that's right, a half pound of Kobe-Style beef from a Wagyu cattle. The fantastically awesome burger is topped with some thick cut applewood smoked bacon and a smooth imported swiss cheese. For some leafy goodness we have some baby mixed greens, slices of red onion and a couple slices of a heirloom tomato. A homemade brioche bun sandwiches the beefy beef and bacon together and we crown the new King, Kobe the IV!

Found at 26 Beach Restaurant in Venice, CA.

(Nikon D700, 60mm, f8.0, 1/80, iso 1000, +0.33ev)

Pann's Belgian Waffle and Fried Chicken Wings at Pann's Restaurant

2011-07-28T07:14:00.000-07:00

We have the Pann's Belgian Waffle and Fried Chicken Wings for our random meal of day. This is a different twist on chicken and waffles. We start with a large golden Belgian waffle with a crispy outer crust and yet stays moist and tender on the inside. We then top the waffle with four amazing juicy chicken wings. There is a perfect harmony between the waffle and the wings. Neither item outshines the other and you have this internal debate of who wins the championship crown. The outcome is that you are the winner because you ate this awesome random meal.

Found at Pann's Restaurant in Los Angeles, CA.

(Nikon D700, 50mm, f4.0, 1/80, iso 1400, +0.33ev)

Natural Corn-Fed Cornish Hen at Farm Stand

2011-07-27T07:17:00.000-07:00

Our random meal of the day brings us an order of the Natural Corn-Fed Cornish Hen. This random meal is actually not so random for me as I actually had this meal a few times. I really like the fact that they cut the Cornish hen into eight manageable pieces. This way you can just dive in. It also looks like the restaurant recently redecorated and now you get some nice booth seating and a more vibrant plate. This does not change the fact that the food still has some wonderful bold flavors.

Found at Farm Stand in El Segundo, CA.

(Nikon D700, 85mm, f5.6, 1/160, iso 200)

Combo Italian Beef & Char-Grilled Sausage at Portillo's

2011-07-26T07:15:00.000-07:00

We have a the "Combo" for our random meal of the day. The Combo consists of Italian Beef and a Char-Grilled Sausage Sandwich. It is actually kind of strange to actually be eating at Portillo's in California. I actually been to Portillo's in Chicago four different times before. Each and every time I ordered the Italian Beef Sandwich but the funny thing is that this was before I started actively photographing my random meals. So as a random meal eater, I could not resist but to choose something different. To spice up the meal I have ordered the combo and added an awesome char-grilled sausage link. It gave the sandwich a unique twist to the flavor of the meal. You get the smooth Italian beef and contrast it with a crispy sausage link. It gives the sandwich a one two punch!

Found at Portillo's in Buena Park, CA.

(Nikon D700, 60mm, f5.6, 1/125, iso 400, +0.33ev)

Grilled Pork Chops at Chef Hannes Restaurant

2011-07-25T07:21:00.000-07:00

We have a mouth watering order of Grilled Pork Chops for our random meal of the day featured dish. The pork chops are served with a side of apple cilantro chutney that brings out the wonderful grilled pork chop flavor. This was simply an excellent meal.

Found at Chef Hannes Restaurant in El Segundo, CA.

(Nikon D700, 85mm, f4.0, 1/125, iso 200, +0.33ev)

Chocolate Chip Cannoli at Federico's Italian Bakery

2011-07-24T07:13:00.000-07:00

We have a Chocolate Chip Cannoli for our random meal of the day treat. This delicious Italian treat is filled with a creamy semi sweet Ricotta cream cheese and sprinkled with a generous helping of dark mini chocolate chips. The filling and chocolate chips are wrapped in a delicious crispy pasty dough shell. This is a refreshing random meal of the day treat.

Found at Federico's Italian Bakery in Pasadena, CA.

(Nikon D700, 105mm, f5.6, 1/80, iso 1000)

Red Velvet Chocolate Chip Pancake Bites at Buttermilk Food Truck

2011-07-23T07:40:00.000-07:00

To round off the final day of random meal of the day's food truck week we have the Red Velvet Chocolate Chip Pancake Bites. I remember watching a feature of food trucks on a TV show and the Buttermilk Truck was featured. I do not recall the name of the show but I do remember putting Buttermilk as a must try food truck. The owner of the truck is an actual Chef and went to culinary school at The French Culinary Institute for Pastry Arts. Well, another truck and another disappointment by not actually seeing the chef. But alas, the Red Velvet Chocolate Chip Pancake Bites absolutely lived up to the hype. It was like eating some silky soft red velvet cookies that just melt into your mouth. The care that they take to make sure that each piece of the pancake bites have just enough chocolate to give you the sweet treat without overpowering the fantastic red velvet flavor. Each order is freshly made and is so worth the wait. This is an awesome random meal of the day treat.

Found at Buttermilk randomly in Los Angeles, CA.

(Nikon D700, 60mm, f8.0, 1/80, iso 200, +0.67ev)

Lobsta Roll at Lobsta Food Truck

2011-07-22T07:30:00.000-07:00

Day six of random meal of the day food truck week brings us an order of Lobsta Roll or a Lobster roll. Yes, we have a lobster roll from a food truck. It is a delicious order of fresh lobster meat on a toasted split top roll. The lobster is coated in a wonderfully fully flavored mayo sauce. The great thing about the Lobsta truck is that not only do they fly in the lobster fresh from New England but they also fly in the bread fresh from New England. So in essence, you are truly getting a New England lobster roll or in this case a Lobsta Roll. This is a bargain compared to a flight to Maine.

Found at Lobsta Truck randomly in Manhattan Beach, CA.

(Nikon D700, 105mm, f4.0, 1/125, iso 900)

Boolgogi Cheesesteak Sandwich at Bool Food Truck

2011-07-21T07:27:00.000-07:00

We continue our random meal of the day food truck week with a Boolgogi Cheesesteak Sandwich. This random meal featured sandwich is a twist from a typical cheesesteak. This cheesesteak is filled with Bulgogi or "Boolgogi" and is a rib eye steak sliced thinly and marinated in a sweet Korean sauce. It is a tasty hearty sandwich that will actually fill you up. I have always been a fan of the Bool Truck and they never fail to deliver a good reasonable priced random meal.

Found at Bool randomly in Los Angeles, CA.

(Nikon D700, 35mm, f5.6, 1/320, iso 200, +0.33ev)

Frisee Au Lardon Sandwich at Lardon Food Truck

2011-07-20T07:21:00.000-07:00

We have for day four of random meal of the day's food truck week, the Frisee Au Lardon Sandwich. Ahh, back to the bacon truck. It is kind of funny how you can easily get a crowd of people to go to eat bacon at the bacon truck. The Frisee Au Lardon starts with a toasted brioche bread and you top it with large chunks of bacon, a fried egg and vinaigrette dressing. Yum...

Found at Lardon randomly in El Segundo, CA.

(Nikon D700, 85mm, f2.8, 1/250, iso 1250)