dine around with helga

Clockwise from top left: Wei Hong Bakery & BBQ, Cafe Mochi, Emack and Bolio's, Cafe Mochi, Cafe Natasha’s Kabob International, The Vine Mediterranean Cafe

Helga. Who's Helga? Actually, it's a camera effect on the iPhone that mimics a Holga. I hit the international dine around event on South Grand tonight and left the camera at home. My friend John came to the rescue with the iPhone to document our night of crazy food and drink fun. [Photos made by or with assistance from Juanito.]

I feel fortunate to live within walking distance of such a vibrant food community. Cafe Mochi's crunchy bagel roll made with fresh salmon, cream cheese, avocado and eel sauce caught me by surprise. 'Twas a beautiful combination of flavors. It's served hot but maintains the "freshness" of a cold sushi roll. The baba ganoush from the Vine also makes the evening's headlines. Consider picking some up for a party if you live in the area. Yum. This place also has spinach pies, hummus, grape leaves and other goodies to go. Urban's Purple Rain martini rises to the top of the drink list. It's a refreshing mix of mint, berries and lime. A perfect summer mix.

Scavengers hunts, food and friends. It's a buenaso combination. And, no, I didn't eat the duck heads from Wei Hong. Next time!