Gauge's Favorite Toy

BEST DOG TOY EVER!

         In January we visited Gaby's college town of New Paltz, New York. When we got to the 

                 beautiful Water Street Market, we had to stop into Paws of Distinction. An awesome

             pet store that truly puts the needs of the animals first. Not only is their paint specifically

 chosen so that the pets can lick away worry-free, so are their floors, and all of their food products

are heavily researched. Many brands we had never heard of, but the woman behind the counter was more than willing to answer any questions we had. And they strongly

encourage owners bringing their furry friends into the store! The woman
helping us even gave us free samples of both dog and cat food (which they both devoured).

After telling the woman about Gauge's ability to destroy any toy that comes across his path.

She began showing us a line of toys that come with a 100% guarantee; meaning IF Gauge

were to destroy these, we would only have to ship them back to the company (shipping fee)

and they would replace, free of charge. 

Below is a picture of the BUMI (zogoflex) by West Paw Design. This boomerang type toy has provided Gauge with endless fun for the last couple of months. He plays with it alone, we can tug-o-war with him, it bounces, it floats, an awesome fetch object, dishwasher-safe, 100% recyclable, and best of all, the slobber seems to evaporate immediately!

                                             Click here to visit West Paw Design's website

Gauge, patiently waiting for his Bumi to be thrown to him. 

Ummm…where is my Bumi?

After 3 months the Bumi has survived without as much as a minor scratch. 

Gauge, is still a baby, despite his big size, he hasn't even reached the age of 2 yet.

So when we say he is constantly chewing on this toy, we mean all of the time!

We can confidently say it is the best toy ever purchased, and we would highly recommend the products to anyone!

Paws Approved: 100% recyclable, 100% guarantee, indestructible, dishwasher safe, pretty, unique designs, variety of uses, easily order online. 

No Paws Approved: we can't think of any right now. 

Paws Of Distinction

Address: 10 Main Stret #305, New Paltz, NY 12561

Phone: 845-255-3991

Mompou: Tapas, Wine Bar, and Lounge

Friday night off. 

                  We decided to head into Newark for the Devil's vs. Blue Jackets game

                                                                  at the Prudential Center!

Mompou provided the perfect warm-up before the game.

This little hidden gem is located within walking distance

of Penn Station in the Ironbound District.

Enter Mompou and you're greeted by a warm and inviting atmosphere.

This cool "log" feature wall is noticeable right when you walk inside:

They have exposed brick throughout the restaurant, a cool service station window concept, 

beautiful slate around the bar,

and what looks like will be an awesome outdoor area 

(once the warm weather returns). 

Music had a lounge-like vibe to it, fit the theme nicely,

and wasn't overpowering.

Gave it a speak-easy feel (which we love). 

Cozy atmosphere for a ladies' night; yet manly enough for a guys' night, too. 

Don't be misled by the wine bar sign outside…there's a wide variety of liquor to be found.

We're always looking for bars with a lot of whiskey and tequila to choose from;

and they certainly did not disappoint. 

In addition to the array of liquor, they have an impressive

craft beer selection on tap as well.

Kentucky Bourbon Ale was one of the craft beers featured that week.

We were upset when we first arrived because the wrong keg had been delivered.

Once corrected by the distributor, the friendly

bartender gave Gary a glass on the house. 

Brownie points!

We ordered four tapas; 

Tortilla Herminia: a quiche-like dish with potatoes, onions and spinach

 Pinchos de Camarones: prawn skewers and yummy roasted garlic 

Albondigas de Pollo: chicken meatballs in a homemade sauce

 and Txistorra: pork sausage with mushrooms and shrimp

Each beautifully plated dish was stacked on a 

sturdy, three-tiered iron display.

First bites were warm and delicious; kept us coming back for more.

Don't let the concept of tapas fool you; these four "little plates"

were surprisingly filling.

To check out these items and their full menu click here

The tortilla…too big to fit.

My sweet tooth (Gaby) always chimes in at the end when I think I'm too full to continue.

Couldn't resist ordering the Tres Leches cake; which the bartender

generously doused in Chambord. 

It was sinfully good. Rich and creamy.

We somehow managed to finish every last bite. 

Off to the Devil's game, full and satisfied. 

Too bad they lost. 

Grub Points: variety of liquor/food selections, inviting ambiance,

friendly staff, well-seasoned/cooked/presented food,

Timely, walking distance from Penn Station and Prudential Center, craft beer on tap,

clean, good date spot, sangria pitchers!

No Grub Points: no televisions (for all you sports lovers), 

tight table sections (be careful where you stretch your arms), not a huge bar (10 seats+). 

Needless to say; we'll be back. 

Address: 

77 Ferry Street, Newark, NJ 07105

Phone:

973-578-8114

@Mompou 

About This Foodie Couple

                         Our Foodie Love Affair

A young couple that loves going out in search of some great gulp & grub. 

We're Gary and Gaby. 

The long tongue in the middle

belongs to Gary's pit bull Gauge.

                            Food is what brought us together. 

Our foodie love affair started a little over a year ago when we met working together in a restaurant.

 Gaby the bartender and Gary a chef. 

  It was truly love at first bite. 

Or sip, we can't remember.

                                       

On this blog we plan on sharing some of our opinions about our 

favorite and least favorite restaurants, bars, drinks and recipes.

From both his and her perspectives.  

Side note: we consider ourselves "bar people" more so than 

"dining people"…aka we love to sit at a beautiful bar. 

 Dog lovers;

we're including some of our favorite brands of

food and toys for the furry friends out there. 

                       The love we have for food can't be contained.

                                 We want to share it with everyone!

About Us 

Gary: What was once just a hobby, has now turned into an always growing passion. I have been working in the food service industry since I was 14 years old.  I attended a two year program in a vocational high school (Prosser School of Technology). I was taught by a former chef from Sullivan University and two other fantastic instructors. From there I attended and graduated from Johnson & Wales University in Charlotte, NC. I've worked in a variety of establishments; hospitality corporations like Hilton Hotel, catering, fine-dining establishments like Due Mari (with consulting Chef Michael White), and even successful Irish Pubs. While catering I became really fascinated with bar tending and the flavor profiles that can be developed in a cocktail. My ability to quickly adapt behind the bar allowed for a smooth transition to becoming bar manager. I currently cook and bartend at a restaurant in New Brunswick, NJ. 

Gaby: I have also been working in the service industry since I was 15 years old.  My love for food was sparked by my Father who was always in the kitchen when I was younger, and my Grandmother who worked in a bakery while I was growing up. I have held many different positions ranging from simple cashier duties, to waitressing at various Irish Restaurants, catering, and bar tending at a variety of different establishments. I am now pursuing my Master's Degree in Industrial/Organizational Psychology at Montclair State University.