Katsu-Ya

Katsu-Ya

11680 Ventura Blvd, Studio City, CA 91604 (818) 985-6976

“Irasshaimase!”

This Japanese greeting rings out every time you walk in the door to this amazing establishment!

First opening in 1999, Katsu-Ya, owned by Chef Katsuya Uechi of the Katsu-Ya Group now have 7 locations stretching his Sushi excellence from Manhattan Beach to Studio City to Northridge!

Whether you decide to sit at the bar or wait for a table, one thing is guaranteed. You will have to wait!

To me, Sushi places in LA are like Pizzeria’s in NY, one on just about every corner. And like Pizza in NY, I feel like it’s hard to mess up Sushi. But I am sure we have all had that experience with “sweat shop” Sushi before.

Katsu-Ya puts the “Smackdown” on GOOD Sushi in a way that this “Meat and Potatoes” guy fell in love with some of the cuisine!

To start, after your “Irasshaimase” welcome and possible 30 minute wait, you sit down and instantly are given one of the most simplest, most refreshing things I have ever experienced in a restaurant setting. No not a “Happy Ending” nut bags, that’s at the place down the road,  but close! 

The warm, cleansing "towelette" that is peeled open by your server as a way of cleaning your hands, face, feet, neck whatever you need, before your meal. Simplicity that adds to the amazing food to come..

Not sure why other places don’t do follow suit but I tip my hat to you Chef Katsuya!

When a “Fat Kid” goes to a sushi place he/she prepare to eat, and eat some more. Then a little more eating, then one more, and finally we get to what was my favorite portion of the segment called “Mozzarella Crab Tempura!”

Let me first take a moment to reflect on what was, “Mozzarella Crab Tempura.” “Mozzarella Crab Tempura” was a simple dish. With what was lacking from a small ingredient list, “Mozzarella Crab Tempura” made up in taste! The size of a Harmonica, the “Mozzarella Crab Tempura” was a symphony of salt with the melodic meltings of Mozzarella cheese and a simple note of crab. This crunchy, salty, melted crab meat appetizer had all but one flaw….

It wasn’t on the menu!

Nope, some guy one night that was sitting next to me offered me one and after that sampler, I ordered my own! I believe 8-9 come in an order. Or came in an order!

I remember saying to myself, this is one of the best appetizers I have ever eaten…

It’s Simple, I love Mozzarella Sticks. I love “Mozzarella Crab Tempura!”

Tempura batter, if you don’t know is light and fluffy not heavy like a bread crumb. In the middle, something that resembled a Polly-O Mozzarella String Cheese, which are the quintessential snack time treat and a fresh piece of lump crabmeat.  It’s ridiculous how they show up nice and warm! Oozing Mozzarella with a Crispy Flakey scarf made of Tempura keeping it cozy and that morsel of seafood.

Really, one of the best!

So I stumble in there one night, knowing exactly what I am going to order, a whole bunch of sushi rolls and my “Mozzarella Crab Tempura.”

After my second bottle of hot Sake, second pint of Asahi and multiple rolls I proudly declare my love for “Mozzarella Crab Tempura” to my server to be told, “So sorry, it is off the menu.”

It was like watching the “Hindenburg” go up in flames! Finding out Santa Claus is fake, the Tooth Fairy doesn’t exist and that for Chanukah you really don’t get 8 days of gifts!

“Oh the humanity!”

I mean every time I ate at Katsu-Ya I would upsell whoever is sitting next to me as to why they should try the “Mozzarella Crab Tempura.” I could’ve earned a damn commission!

So now, months later, after swearing off Katsu-Ya, I go back. I go back with the hopes I will be reunited with my “Mozzarella Crab Tempura” and what do I find out? They have an appetizer on the menu called, “Mozzarella Crab Tempura” but… it’s not the same. It is a quarter sized ball of Fresh Mozzarella with some Tempura, NO CRAB! I like the Fresh Mozz but this attempt is a FAIL! 

And, you schmuck, you put it on the menu. It loses all of it’s sexy now! You aren’t in the “exclusive” “Mozzarella Crab Tempura” club.

You are just another guy eating a sub par appetizer!

Let’s go back and reiterate, they took a menu item that isn’t on the menu off the menu. Huh?

For me, the “Mozzarella Crab Tempura” was one of the simplest, tastiest appetizers I have ever eaten and don’t know why it’s not being served. Since the disheartening disappointment, I have not been back to Katsu-Ya. I am now lost in LA with hundreds of Sushi places to choose from, despite knowing where I’d like to be!

Fat Kid’s unite! Go to Katsu-Ya, ask for the “Mozzarella Crab Tempura” and let them know that this Fat Kid sent you!

All in all, Katsu-Ya is a very good Sushi place, but better when they had the “Mozzarella Crab Tempura”

BRING IT BACK! 

Konichiwa!

Italia Deli and Bakery, Ciao Ciao!

Italia Deli and Bakery

5657 Kanan Rd, Agoura Hills, CA 91301 (818) 991-4838

Being from the East Coast, I have always loved walking into those Italian markets where they have Meat and Cheeses hanging from the ceiling, Fresh Baked Breads, Cookies, Cannoli’s, Tiramisu, Gelato, Sisters all named Marie, Homemade Pastas and let’s not forget about the quintessential “Guinea” behind the counter talking with his hands like A O… Fuggetaboutit!

But even a “Bambino Grasso” can learn to appreciate a more subtle approach to magnificent Italian grub!

The Italia Deli and Bakery is a 30 minute shot North on the 101 just past Calabasas. It’s nestled in the lavishly green, affluent and beautiful neighborhood of Agoura Hills just off of Kanan Rd.

Some may think it is “too far to go for a sandwich,” well I say “Vaffanculo!”

Once you walk in, you are always greeted by 3 things instantly.  A friendly face from behind the counter standing amongst Cured Meats, Cheeses and Breads, a Deli counter containing Homemade Pasta, Pasta Dishes, Desserts and Cookies BUT what makes this “Fat Kid” keep going back is the smell of “Cucina Della Nonna” or “Grandma’s Kitchen.”

Folks, it’s an Italian thing.

Take your pick from any number of options in the Deli department! Prosciutto, Capicola, Soppressata, Genoa and Mortadella. Provolone, Mozzarella, Asiago, Reggiano Parmigiano, Pecorino Romano or even Burrata! Focaccia, Ciabatta, “Mama Mia”, I mean “Figlio Di Una Cagna!”

Inside the store are countless Italian goodies such as Extra Virgin Olive Oils, Imported San Marzano Tomatoes, Aged Balsamic Vinegars, Beer, Wines, Olives, Pastas, Cookies, Make your own Mozzarella Cheese kits, Soda’s, Herbs, Spices, I mean “Ooofa” already. It doesn’t stop…

But the reason why I travel to the Italia Deli and Bakery besides all the love above is for something that has eluded me over the course of the last 5 years! “Il Mio Amore” …

A hot Porchetta Sandwich!

Porchetta is a Savory, Fatty, and Moist Boneless Pork Roast. The belly of the pig is arranged carefully with layers of Garlic, Rosemary, Fennel, Meat, Fat, and Skin, then Rolled, Tied, and Roasted, traditionally over wood. Porchetta is also usually heavily salted which is a part of the “Curing” process. “Oh Mio Dio” I am so hungry right now!

 I have never seen Porchetta in person. I have only relied on Myth and “The Food Network” but let me explain something to you. The way the Italia Deli and Bakery make their version of a Porchetta Sandwich is “Cosi Delizioso” as I kiss my fingers to the sky..

“Slow Roasted Pork, Fennel, Onion and Celery on Italian Bread.” That’s it. Words can’t describe enough how flavorful this sandwich is. It’s no doubt a “Bocca Orgasmo” or“Mouth Orgasm!”

 The Italian Bread that is baked fresh that morning has a golden crust with “snap” to it when bitten combined with a “Pillowesque” inside.

The Meat, “Mandato Dal Cielo,” sent from heaven, melts in your mouth. The Fennel, Onion, Celery and Pork have “Married in Holy Matrimony” as if “Old Blue Eyes” Frank Sinatra serenaded them overnight.

Again, I have to re iterate, “Words can’t describe enough how flavorful this sandwich is”

Don’t be “Stupido” or an “Idiota”, an “Imbecille” or in the words of the late great “Tony Soprano”, a “Stunod” and take that beautiful drive up the 101 North to the Italia Deli and Bakery. You will be so happy you did!

Take it from this “Bambino Grasso,” the Italia Deli and Bakery is a 10! Go fall in love with this place like I have! “Arrivederci!”

DeFranko's Large Pastrami YES YES

DeFranko’s

7532 Woodley Ave, San Fernando Valley, CA 91406 (818 780 9556)

Large Pastrami Yes Yes! That’s all you need to know. Now don’t be a putz and go get one TODAY!

A few years ago my buddy Skip was working in the area and said that I had to try this Pastrami Sandwich from DeFrankos. I am always up for a new sandwich place but have felt let down by some other LA shops in the past. Some try just too hard to make their sandwiches more “gourmet” than they should and the others (Quizway and Subnos) take pride in using pre rolled logs of meat, specific amounts of cheese, veggies and my favorite, the bathroom caulk gun of mayo for your condiments. These places always disappoint and leave you with a loaf of bread with little to be desired in between. But not DeFrankos!

Nestled into a space that is probably no larger than J-Dog’s Lincoln Continental, on Woodley @ Saticoy and right next to the Flyaway sits DeFrankos Submarines. A sandwich shop that has been serving folks in the Valley for almost 40 years! Dru and the crew really know how to make your experience here an unforgettable one and chances are, that if you went here as a kid, you are bringing your kids here now!

For me, as soon as I walked into this place and saw what goes on I knew THIS was a real sandwich shop. 9 out of 10 times when you go, especially around lunchtime, there is a line around the building. Why? Because the quality, size, price, speed the sandwich is made and tradition that go into making every sub here. Yes, you can get typical sandwiches like Ham, Turkey, Roast Beef, Tuna Salad and even Meatball, but when you go, and believe me, you will, you HAVE to get the Large Pastrami Yes Yes.

Here’s how it works! It’s like the old “Seinfeld” episode “Soup Nazi”. You walk in and generally the guy who is preparing sandwiches has his back to you and screams out, “Next!?” Don’t be scared, he is a master of his craft so when that chance comes to order just yell out, “Large Pastrami Yes Yes!” Your “Sandwich Dictator” will put in the order for the Pastrami with the kitchen shortly after.

Education time Fat Kids… Pastrami which is a cut of Beef that when raw is brined, partly dried, seasoned with various herbs, spices, then smoked or steamed. However, DeFrankos kicks it up another notch and drops it’s portion into a deep fryer for a few minutes to re invigorate the meat and make it so much more succulent!

While the Pastrami is taking a bath, freshly baked Sesame seeded Italian bread is being cut in half, slathered with Yellow Mustard and blanketed with Provolone ready to embrace that hot meat like my Snuggie in the wintertime. When piled on top, the Pastrami ignites the cheese and mustard which alone make for an amazing sandwich but it’s not done yet! It gets passed back to your “Sandwich Dictator” where he begins the final stages by adding heaps of marinated diced Tomatoes, White Onions and Pickles. On top of that they hit your sandwich with submarine lube and with a few shakes of the wrist salt, pepper and Italian seasoning! BOOM! Now, and only now are you ready to sink your teeth into the behemoth!

When you take that first bite it’s a guarantee that bits and pieces of the sandwich are falling out but that’s the beauty of the sandwich, you eat it with your hands. The texture from the pickles, onions and tomatoes combined with the saltiness from the meat, the bite from the mustard and the creaminess of the provolone make it next to impossible to put it down.

This monster is so good I have requests from back East to send one overnight mail! It’s that awesome!

The Large Pastrami Yes Yes from DeFranko’s is iconic for all of the San Fernando Valley residents who have been there, stop in and see what 40 years of making great sandwiches is all about!

From a Fat Kid scale of 1-10 there is NO DOUBT that DeFranko’s Large Pastrami Yes Yes is a 10. Whether you are on the Westside, in Downtown or the hood you have to experience this sandwich for yourself!

Dad's Donuts

DAD’S Donuts

2501 West Victory Blvd Burbank CA 91505 818 841 1910

As soon as you walk in you’re greeted by a friendly face behind the counter. Now I know donuts and coffee go hand in hand but I don’t drink coffee so I grab a little milk "chugger" they have coolin in the fridge, not too much not too little, just right!

You gaze at the different selections on display, each of them standing in line waiting to be picked like a kid at a kick ball game! Maple bars, Cake donuts, Donut holes, Old Fashioned, Donuts with Sprinkles even Fresh Muffins crying out to be the one.

But I know what I’m here for, I’m eyeballing One Vanilla Cream Filled and One Chocolate Cream Filled!

Take them home or eat them there, whatever floats your boat, but understand that the first bite you take will make your inner “fat kid” jump for joy!

Now I’m partial to Vanilla, always have been, but also because I’ve taken down 3 Vanilla Cream in one sitting! But for you Chocoholics, you will bask in the richness of your beloved cocoa bean!

Get this, the donut has been lightly covered with Granulated sugar. Back home, old school places like Dunkin Donuts used Powdered sugar. The difference makes for a perfect combination from the crunchiness of the granulated sugar to the super fresh and soft donut dough.. The deeper into your first bite you start to get some of that cream.. It is straight up ridiculous! This isn’t a custard or a pudding. It isn’t some artificial chocolate syrup or a tiny piece of chocolate candy, it’s made fresh, soft and velvety, sweet and silky pastry cream!

Tearing off that first bite you have NO choice but to dive right back in for another! While this perfectly packed cream filled donut melts in your mouth, lean back in your chair, ready a swig of milk and realize that you are eating what is probably  the best cream filled donut you ever ate!

It’s just that good!

From a Fat Kid scale of 1-10, “Dad’s” Donuts Cream Filled Donuts are a 10!

Stop in today and see what I mean…

Heywood Grilled Cheese Shoppe

Heywood

3337 W Sunset Blvd  Los Angeles, CA 90026 (323) 667-1522

Who doesn’t remember those days when you were a mini Fat Kid and ate Grilled Cheese sandwiches with Tomato soup? There was a time when you were sitting on the couch with the sniffles, watching your favorite Saturday cartoon in your jammies... Don’t B.S a B.S’er!

Truth be told, the crew at Heywood have reinvented the wheel! The Grilled Cheese wheel...

Named after English playwright John Heywood, this “diamond in the ruff” is nestled on Sunset Blvd at Micheltorena St. in the historic Silverlake area of LA. It’s a warm ambience when you walk in thanks to dark wood tables, chairs and the great décor on the walls. It’s the way a place should feel when you are coming to plow down the best Grilled Cheese Sandwich around!

So many delicious options written down on the chalk board that hangs above the counter. Have you ever had a Grilled Cheese Sandwich that uses Cinnamon Raisin Toast, Brie Cheese and a Fig Jam? No! Let me say that one again especially if you like the ingredients listed. Cinnamon Raisin Toast, Brie and a Fig Jam! 

Have you ever had a sandwich that has Fontina Cheese, Spicy Pepper Jack melted on top of sliced jalapenos, fresh cream cheese with crunchy tortilla strips on sourdough? Whew... I think not governor!

Let’s not forget, you can create your own Grilled Cheese Sandwich by using any of the fresh baked breads they have. You can choose from Cinnamon Raisin, Sourdough, Whole Wheat, White or Gluten Free! Then add gourmet toppings like Sliced Apples, Sundried Tomatoes, Hickory Smoked Bacon, Avocado or even Roasted Red Peppers followed up by yes, an Artisan Spread of your choice. This is where it goes from a 9.9 to a 10.0 on the Fat Kid Scale of ridiculous. Go bonkers with a Pesto, Habanero, Brown Mustard or Fig Jam, but my favorite, Maple Onion Confit.

“Confit” is simply something that is cooked in oil or sugar water (syrup) that can be preserved for several months.

Oy mashugana! I didn’t mention that you can also request to have cheese melted onto the outside of your sandwich creating that “burnt” crispy cheese we ALL love!  Plus, every sandwich comes with a beautiful Spring Mix salad and a half cup of the best homemade Tomato Bisque Soup! The soup has an amazing smoky flavor, creamy with fresh veggies, and a hint of roasted pepper which creates the perfect love bath for your sandwich. I mean this place has it on lock down!

“Sometimes you want to go where everybody knows your name,” I knew I frequented this place often when I would hear, “Norm” every time I walked in the door!

Through a tough trial and error process I finally came up with what I call, “The Most Amazing Grilled Cheese Sandwich EVER!” Naturally said in a Charlton Heston voice…

First I request Sourdough Bread; I love Sourdough because it has that slight “sour” taste to it, a crunchy outside and always that fluffy inside. They spread a thin layer of butter on the outside preparing it for the sandwich press. Next the Maple Onion Confit is applied to what would be the anchor slice of bread. Just like sandwiches for centuries using condiments like Mayo, Mustard, etc... the Maple Onion Confit with its sweet taste will be the perfect complement to the Smokey Applewood Bacon! We aren’t there yet, next addition is the Cotswold Cheese.

I’d like to pause for a moment to observe the dairy genius who came up with this stuff… Cotswold Cheese is made by blending chives and spring onions into Double Gloucester. Gloucester is a traditional, unpasteurized, semi hard cheese which has been made in Gloucestershire, England.

We all “infuse” things nowadays like Alcohol, Oils, and Dogs. But Cheese and Onion? OMG!

At Heywood, everything is made to order, they take out a “block” of the Cotswold, shred it right there and aren’t bashful with how much they use! After your mountain of Cotswold Cheese is on top of the Maple Onion Confit which is on top of that buttered Sourdough Bread, 2 thick cuts of Applewood Smoked Bacon are laid down over it all in a “cross” pattern. I don’t know if it’s to insinuate a “godly” like feeling but you can say a prayer once it comes out of the sandwich press. Buttered Bread combines with the Maple Onion Confit, Cotswold Cheese, Applewood Smoked Bacon and the end result…. Perfection!

It’s kinda funny to think but the sandwich looks so innocent going in and so mean coming out! It’s like that girl from Junior High who at the end of the year nobody paid attention to but come September she is using makeup and has a big chest!

I for one always eat my salad first, I don’t know why, I just do. After my roughage, I pick up the first half of sandwich, always looking at it like it’s a new born baby. Gazing at the melted cheese strumming from the edges and that one inch piece of crispy bacon peeking out from the crust. With the sandwich in one hand, napkin in the other I go for a dunk! The corner plummets into the Tomato Bisque and comes out holding securely to the bread making its path to my awaiting mouth. As I sink my teeth into this thing I am greeted by all the fabulous flavors I have described above. The Tomato soup with the crunch of the grilled buttered bread, sweet onion confit, to the amazing cheese/onion marriage and the meaty, salty smoky bacon. I just don’t know if words can express the enjoyment you will have when you take that first bite. You know what, take one, take two, and finish that first half. Then, you can stop for a moment and basque in the glory of what Fat Kids Corner has just presented to you. By far, no if and but’s about it. This is the KING of ALL Grilled Cheese Sandwiches!

I would write more but I have to clean up the drool on my work desk and head over to Heywood Grilled Cheese Shoppe for one of the top 5 sandwiches I have ever eaten!

From a Fat Kid’s scale of 1-10, the sandwiches that are being made at Heywood are ALL a 10! We all have that childish spirit inside of us; go unleash your Fat Kid here today! See you there…