Alhambra Palace Restaurant

It was a Saturday night out. We went to this newly open restaurant located at downtown because they have a belly dance performance. It was the 10th day they were in business.

When we entered the restaurant, we were stun by their decoration. It looks like a real palace. the interior of this restaurant features beautiful mosaics and lantern that highlight the art of Moroccan.

It was unbelievable crowded. We immediately joined the long queue at the hostess stand. Unfortunately, they told us it was over booked. (In fact, when we called for reservation, they told us it was first come first serve basic :-( )Luckily, our friendly and charming bartender, Miro made us enjoyed the rest of the day sitting at the bar.

The professional belly dancer went around the room from tables to tables for the whole night. What a fabulous night out with daddy on Mother's day. I will definitely come back for the hookah and reserve a seat at balcany. Here are what we had for tonight.

I ordered their signature drink, Alhambra Martini. It tasted sweet and slightly sour. Although the appearance did not look good but it was smooth and relaxing.

We ordered the grill sea scallop with tangy citrus jam ad aged balsamic reduction. It was fresh, mild and sweet.

It also served with some pita, a flatbread. I don't really like the pita. It was too hard and thick.

But, I love the cone shape reed basket they used to serve the pita. It looks cool. Overall, it was a bit pricey. The 3 scallops cost USD14.00.

Caffe Gelato

Caffe Gelato is located at 2034 W Division St, Chicago, IL 60622. This is one of the best places you must go for gelato (Italian ice cream) in Chicago.

I read all the good reviews about this place. Actually we visited this place once when Fen visited us from Malaysia. We wanted her to try some gelato, which I think we can hardly find in Malaysia. But, they were closed on winter. We went there again with Say Ing when they reopen on spring. When I first step in, I really can’t wait to try that out. They offer over 30 flavors of gelato from the classic to the creative. I know that will be too much to decide. But don’t worry, they will let you sample as many as you want.

I had a cup of small café mocha. It has a smooth, fine and silky texture. I am so happy to know that it is less fat and calorie than traditional American ice cream. Though, it is more dense and creamier. It costs USD3.50. Say Ing had the big cup of double flavor, can’t really remember what’s the greenish flavor is. And, Eric had the white one.

I also had a latte to go.

Also, there are some nice imported cookies and snacks on the wall rack, if you would like a nice little addition to serve with your coffee. Pictures hanging all around the restaurant bring out the taste of Italy. This place is one of our top lists to visit especially on summer.

Mrs. Murphy and Sons

This Irish Bistro is located at 3905 N Lincoln Ave, Chicago, IL 60613

We drive all the way down to Lincoln Square from the burb for this Irish bar that recommended by Metromix. It’s not easy to find an Irish bar in Chicago. We were there for Sunday brunch.

Murphy Law’s – The best things are said after someone else wants the check. Bulleit bourbon, espresso and crème de cacao swerved chilled and straight up.
Eric ordered the Murphy Law. The intense bittersweet coffee flavor reminds me the traditional black coffee in Malaysia. (Kopi O)

Irish beer – Kinsale Irish LagerI ordered Irish beer. It’s 50% off on Sunday brunch. Cost only USD2.50. But, they do not have much selection for imported beer. Though, I can’t really differentiate them.

Grilled Chicken & Apple – Grilled chicken breast, apple, cashed bleu cheese, walnuts, dried cherries, mixed greens, and bleu cheese dressing. This nutty apple salad is really delicious. It’s a great way to have fruit and green in a dish to fulfill the nutritional requirement. It’s wealthy, healthy and satisfying salad with only USD9.50. What a bargain! I will give it 4 out of 5.

Irish Smoked Salmon Benedict - Toasted crumpets topped with two poached eggs, Irish smoked salmon, and a lemon herb hollandaise sauce. I ordered the salmon benedict as this is the only seafood dish on the menu. It served hot. It’s relatively same as the egg benedicts but serve with salmon rather than bacon. Smoked salmon is a little too salty. And, it’s not as good as it looks.

Grilled Chicken Breast – Grilled chicken, Irish cheddar, red onion marmalade, & roasted garlic mayo.This is a very big portion especially for the Sunday brunch. Finishing the whole dish will probably exceeded the recommended fat intake for the entire day. But, it really taste good, especially with the tangy Irish cheddar cheese that melted in a soft and fresh bread. I definitely recommend this to any sandwich lovers.