Tortilla Flat

On a recent trip to Arizona, we fulfilled my Grandmother's wishes by scattering her ashes in the Superstition Mountains.  Driving aimlessly for over an hour, we were engrossed in finding "the perfect spot."  Looking at our map, I noticed an area that peaked our interest which was called Canyon Lake.  After around thirty more minutes of scary driving, we came around a narrow corner and for the first time while in Arizona, we saw water!  Beautiful water!  The Canyon Lake area was absolutely breathtaking. 


Not completely prepared to do what Grandma wanted, we realized that we needed to eat and boy were we thirsty!  Why three "city-folk" decided to go into a mountain for hours without water is beyond me.  I decided to take a peak at our trusty old map again and found something called Tortilla Flat.  We piled in the car and continued our drive for a few more minutes.  I will never forget our findings....

Entrance Sign

Saddle Bar Stools

Interior Walls - covered in money

Outside View

This place was great!  After ordering a satisfying hefeweizen and a "sodee pop," I perused the newspaper menu.  "Killer Chili - The chili your mama warned your about," located in the middle of the menu was screaming my name.  I questioned the bartender on its heat and was told, "It's not for the weak...I have only tried it once in the 27 years that I have worked here and I cannot handle it."  She then said, "It's probably an 8 or 9 outta 10...it makes my husband cry." 

Chuckling to myself, I said..."Ok...that's what I want!"  Telling me that I was "brave" she placed the order and I waiting anxiously.  Sipping my iced cold brew and swinging my feet (that couldn't reach the floor) back and forth, I was happy, scared, and excited.  

The "killer chili" was delicious!  This meaty chili had the perfect amount of kick and was served with warm buttered tortillas which were perfect to diminish the spice when it tingled a little too long.  All in all...it was a 4 star chili.  Great flavor, wonderful texture, and a beautiful color...what more could you ask for.  It's no wonder this "killer chili" is a local favorite.

We signed a dollar in honor of my Grandma, had the bartender place it on the wall,, and once our bellies were full, we piled into the car and made her proud.  

Rest in peace in a place you loved, Grandma.  We love you and will visit  sometime soon.  Look out "Killer Chili," I'm coming back for more!

Robusto, Robusto...where for art thou, Robusto?

Dear Holland,

Last night's encounter has left me spellbound.  I am in love with Robusto.  The sweet nuttiness backed by the perfect amount of salt and spice leaves me yearning for more.  Robusto is welcome in my home anytime! 


Keep up the good work,
Your Lil' Chef


Seriously now, have you tried Robusto cheese?  This beautiful creation will entice your taste buds.  If I had to compare this cheese with another it would have to be an aged Parmigiano Reggiano.  Yes folks, if Holland and Italy had a baby, it would without a doubt be Robusto.


I am a sucker for salty cheese.  I love how well they pair with rich wines.  Like a good aged Parmigiano, Robusto has little white specs of amino acids which give you a delightfully crunchy texture.  I used to describe this as "little crystals."  This Dutch Gouda-style cheese has a beautiful nutty and slightly sharp flavor.  I would recommend enjoying it with a full-bodied Syrah or Cabernet Sauvignon.


You will thank me later; trust me!

Stuffed from "The Stuffer"

Anyone that knows me will tell you that my favorite past-time is hunting down new tasty treats to add to my WWSE(What Would Stevette Eat) list. Let me start by telling you that I am not shy; whether you're a tiny hole in the wall or a fancy 5-star restaurant doesn't matter. If you have something worth my time that peaks my interest, I'm coming in.

Leaving the gym, I could feel my hunger pangs growing. I am a firm believer that as hunger grows stronger, the brain disconnects from the stomach leaving you empty headed and unable to determine where you want to eat. Boy, do I hate that! That's where the WWSE list comes in handy...now if I only had one in my car. Ugghh! Does anyone remember Forgetful Jones? We must be related.

Unable to decide, I headed towards home hungry and unhappy. While sitting at a red light, I saw a big sign that said "Home of the Stuffer" which obviously translated to "make a left and come on in." Well boys and girls, let's just say that I was a happy camper when I left. 
What's the stuffer? I am glad you asked! They take a soft and chewy sub roll, hollow it out and cram it full with meatballs, stringy mozzarella cheese, and a homemade tomato sauce and then toast it to perfection. Put down the Hot Pocket and check this out! Yum!