Baker's Keyboard Louge

Baker’s Keyboard Lounge, located on Livernois is indeed one of Detroit’s historical monuments.  Jazz musicians such Ella Fitzgerald, Cab Colloway, and the legendary Miles Davis have all performed and entertained at this club that opened its doors in the early 30’s. To my surprise, after conducting research, I’d come to find that Bakers started out first as a sandwich shop in 1933, and began booking musicians in 1934. Making this discovery, I asked myself, “could this explain their solid reputation for serving up amazing down home soul food cuisine that comes often highly recommended?” 

Entering the lounge, you’re immediately taking back to a time when music was at its purest. Sitting at the bar with mutual friend, I asked to see the menu.  Due to frequently patronizing the lounge, I knew they had a reputation for making some of the best fried perch fish in the city. This day I was in the mood for a little turkey however; not prepared the traditional way. Sipping on my cocktail, I decided on their Turkey Chops and a double order of their signature greens with tomatoes and onions.

Once my plate was handed to me, the one word that immediately came to mind was, "wild!" The aroma of the food immediately awakened the senses of my taste buds.  As I prepared myself to put the "smash down" on this “mega plate” I thought to myself, "I hope everything taste as good as it smells." My greens as usual were fresh and not over powered by salt.  Prior to tasting my first chop, I was concerned about the possibility of them being overcooked and dry. After my first bite I was sold! They were crispy, moist, and some of the best chops I've tasted in a while. I was thoroughly satisfied with my experience at Bakers this day and highly recommend that everyone give them a try.  After-all the lounge was initially known for making great sandwiches prior to providing musical performances and lives entertainment.

 

 

      

 

Kuzzo's Chicken & Waffles

With so many new places to eat popping up all over Midtown; one new restaurant on the northwest side opened its doors this past winter of 2015. Located on Livernois, rumor has it that people from all walks of life residing in Detroit are swarming like bees to honey to experience the taste of Kuzzo’s Chicken and Waffles. 

Owned by Detroit Lion Ron Bartell, I received recommendations from many individuals requesting that I pay a visit. With Social Media playing a big role, and many Detroiters flooding their Insta Gram time lines with the delectable southern cuisine food items; it was indeed time for me to see what the KCW buzz was really all about.  After-all, Detroit’s Mayor Mike Duggan had even approved.

Waiting on the rest of my dinning party to arrive, I used my spare time to peep out the magnificent scenery.  From the picture of the first African American President of the United States smoking a cigarette towards the bar, and the legendary Rap Group Run-DMC displayed on the multi-colored brown and red brick wall towards the dining area, the art work inside of the latest restaurant to make the Avenue of Fashion is most alluring.  The Marilyn Monroe portrait indeed makes a sight for sore eyes and compliments the state-of-the-art gorgeous lofty surroundings.

Anticipating the arrival of our final party member, we were squired to our table by our host and menus were provided with glasses of ice water by our server.  Making up our minds up about what to order was indeed a challenge due to the ongoing stares and pauses made at the “Waffle Combos” and “Southern Comforts” selections passing us back and forth to other dining room guest.  Members of our party decided on the following; the “Bam-Bam” consisting of a fried drumstick, thigh, with waffle choice included, the “Shrimp and Grits” made with scallions and bacon served over cheese grits, and the “Belle Isle Basket” which includes the choice of fried shrimp or catfish filets with a basket of chips. Finally, it was my turn to order and I decided on the red velvet waffle, three wings, and cheese eggs as my side item.  Known as the “Big Red”, this breakfast dish indeed fits true to its title.  I was most pleased with the portions provided.    

The chicken was piping hot, delicious and seasoned to perfection. The red velvet waffle was so rich and sweet that I devoured the majority of it without any syrup.   My eggs were fluffy, moist, and flavorsome.  I was thoroughly satisfied with my meal.  People, if you haven’t given the latest southern breakfast cuisine spot to hit the block of Livernois, it’s a must you give them a try.  You’ll need to exercise some patience and prepare to wait; however, I guarantee it’ll be worth your time.  

 

 

Go! Sy Thai Located in Midtown Detroit

What’s better than Thai Food?  A brand new Thai Restaurant in Midtown Detroit of-course.  Not even a year old, the word got out fast about a new place cooking up some mighty good Asian Cuisine in the area.   Curious about what this place had to offer, I made a pit stop to Go Sy Thai located on Cass Avenue prior to attending a networking engagement.

Assuming there would be ample room and space for one to sit down and dine on a Monday; man was I wrong! Filled to the max with locals and college students wanting to place “to go orders” or dine in, this gave me the opportunity to look over their menu several times.

My first instinct was to select the Panang. Made with bell peppers, eggplant, and green coconut curry.    Geared towards satisfying  the Spicer side of my taste buds; just when I was about to place my order, I change my mind and decided on the Egg Noodle dish.  Made with peapods, carrots, baby corn and a hint of garlic soya sauce; I requested a little beef be added as well.   

The combination of crisp steamed vegetables were absolutely delectable and full of authentic flavor.  The garlic soya mixed with the beef made this selection quite a hit.  The Egg Noodles were steamed perfectly.  An avid fan of Thai Food, my preference or personal choice usually with a Thai dish is the Drunken Noodle.  Thanks to tasting the Egg Noodle for the very first time at Go Sy Thai; I've had an edible change of heart.  Highly impressed with the food and atmosphere, I recommend everyone give them a try.

Wind Catcher (Chosen, #1) by Jeff and Erynn ALTabef

Juliet, a Native American teenager desiring the simple things in life ends up getting way more than she bargains for at sixteen.  Wanting the best education possible for her daughter; Summer, Juliet’s mom, switches her to a school that lacks diversity.  For poor Juliet, fitting in, has been no easy task. In-fact, it’s basically a lost cause. 

Sicheii, her grandfather, proudly embraces his native heritage.  Once very close to him, Juliet finds herself embarrassed by his cultural practices and way of life.   Like most working single moms, Summer does the best she can do to provide for herself and her only daughter.  Unhappy about her school change, Juliet becomes angry about her mom’s decision to have Sicheii house sit while she tends to work related business out of town.

Despising the whole private school experience; she decides the following morning to ditch school and avoid the phony atmosphere of Bartens High School.  Missing her old school environment and friends, she relies on her best friend Troy to help her escape her current reality. 

Unfortunately, their time together this particular day goes from sweet to sour due to an unexpected confrontation with some drunken teens.  Although the two of them safely escape the situation; Juliet, that same day notices some unique differences about herself that definitely distinguish her from the typical teen.  

No longer able to avoid the unique things taking place within her, Juliet finds herself discovering undisclosed secrets which result to her rekindling the bond she once had with her grandfather.  From discovering the truth about the murder of Medicine Man Roundtree in their local town; to realizing Sicheii's unconditional love and pure reasoning behind his "over the top" protection of her, Juliet's journey in the Wind Catcher keeps the reader turning the pages of this book anticipating more action to come.  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Adra's Review on Believe in Yourself by Dr. Joseph Murphy

Unfortunately in this world, people often get a kick out of seeing others not succeed.  The remaining portion rarely cares either way.   Most of us in life have dreams and aspirations to leave an unforgettable mark upon this planet prior to passing on. Too many times, we placed the role of faith towards our goals in the wrong hands.  As humans, we become so indulge with what other people may feel or believe about our ideas that we neglect or fail to realize that it all starts from within.

Many of us have amazing gifts that are needed to be shared with the world however; listening to other people, inner fear, insecurities, and lack of self-worth prevents us from pressing the start button.  We allow our minds and the company that we keep to convince us that what we have to offer simply isn’t worth the effort.  In laments terms, we simply just don’t believe in ourselves.

For those suffering from anything listed above or what I refer to as “the adversary,” I recommend you read this book.  From the beginning to the end, it provides the mental medicine one needs to retrain your thoughts for the better.  For those who ever thought that the images seen in their heads showing visualizations of manifested careers, or businesses were purely a glimpse of untouchable reason, this indeed is not the case. This was simply an unproductive thought from your mind telling you that it was unobtainable.  In-fact, the late Dr. Joseph Murphy states the following in the Make Your Dreams Come True Chapter of this read, “Imagination is the mighty instrument used by great scientist, artist, physicist, inventors, architects, and mystics.  When the world said, “It is impossible; it can be done,” the man with the imagination said, it is done!

For those needing to either build or rebuild inner confidence, read Believe in Yourself.  Never put your hopes and dreams into anyone else’s hands to create it.  The inner ability to achieve whatever you want out of life start’s within yourself.  Lastly the key to it all starts with the initial trusting and moving on a positive thought evolving from the inside aiming towards the outer for the greater good of all.

Maccabees in Midtown Detroit

The venue food choices in Midtown Detroit are definitely taking a turn for the better.  Great places to dine are indeed showing up and showing out.  One new place in particular is Maccabees located on Woodward.

Located within the proximity and heart of Wayne State University; I upon entry was immediately astonished by the beauty of this place. Greeted with the smile by the host, it was stated to me after inquiring that this establishment had opened it's doors January of 2013.  

Accompanied to my seat, I immediately began to skim the menu. Maccabees flair of featured selections of authentic creations made it very hard for me to decide upon. Items such as their "Baileys French Toast" and the "Salmon Wrap" indeed were tempting. Placing my menu down on the table indicating to the waiter that I was ready, I took a sip of my water and provided my order.

My curiosity for their "Maccabee Turkey" had indeed gotten the best of me. Made with smoked turkey, melted provolone, roasted peppers, and garlic aioli, ladies and gentlemen, this is not your typical turkey sandwich. In place of bread, the turkey and cheese combination is placed in between two flavorful potato pancakes.

Taking my first bite, I was immediately sold. The creative concept of  smoked turkey enclosed between two potato pancakes makes for one pure state of culinary arts at it's best. Served with a fresh mixed greens salad topped off with a homemade balsamic dressing, this meal had indeed won me over. I am indeed pleased with the atmosphere, hospitality, and dinning experience I had a Maccabee's. I'm pretty sure anyone who makes a reservation or just drops through on the humble to eat will leave feeling the exact same way.    

My Review on Tony Robbins: Tony Robbins Greatest Life Lessons Writen by Joy Lincoln

Approaching the midpoint of February 2015; less than eight weeks ago, the majority of us did the norm.  We all made or set New Years goals.  Whether we wrote them down or logged them into the route memory of our brains, we did it all in hopes to accomplish our personal life’s desires and dreams. 

The inner conflict that comes with wanting something bad enough is that the majority of us give up too soon on what we want.  In-fact, statistics indicate that achievement goals set at the beginning of the year annually are pushed by the wayside prior to half of the calendar being over with.

There’s an adage that many of us are familiar with that states the following, “it all starts with you.”   I agree with the statement however; what if your current mindset is not in a place necessary for you to get the ball rolling on your life goals and aspirations?   Speaking from personal experience, I know what it feels like to be stuck in a not so joyous predicament.    I’ve been in positions many times where I could envision myself with everything I had wished and hoped for.  The issue at hand was that I simply did not believe that I had what it took to bring it to full life.

For those wanting to feel a sense of entitlement for whatever it is you want to see or desire to come to fruition; yet somehow got off of the course.

 I recommend this book of affirmations stated directly by the legendary Tony Robinson written by Joy Lincoln.  A short yet very inspiring read, this collection of powerful and proven steps provide in depth the necessary lessons needed for an overall turnaround of a stagnant mindset.   I personally took heed to the lessons identified in chapters three and five stating the following; “You see, in life, few people actually do what they know. Knowing is not enough. You must take action. Only you have the power, not your environment.   

For those who were feeling enthused the very beginning of the New Year who now feel as if you can’t see yourself accomplishing your goals due to limited unproductive thoughts throwing you off your square; read this one.  Tony Robbins Greatest Life Lessons, written by Joy Lincoln, provides the push needed to get back on the right track.