Colossal Cookbook/ColossalCookbook.cdr/text/bostrr01/bostrr01.txt

Text File | 1990-03-22 | 145KB | 3,019 lines

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                                     A  r  o  u  n  d    B  o  s  t  o  n

             A continuing discussion about Restaurants in the Boston Area

                      Featuring Restaurant Reviews  and weekly commentary

                                      by Boston restaurant reviewer " Z "

                     Brought to you by Channel 1 (tm) 617-354-8873 <modem>
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      35,000 files   120 Conferences   9600 HST, MIC, v3.2 and Hayes lines

      Issue Number 1      1.17.90 through 3.15.90     Start to message 232
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Date: 01-17-90(21:39)Number: 104
  To: ALL                            Refer#: NONE
From: 'Z'                              Read: YES (Has Replies)
Subj: HELLO THERE                    Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE



                         "Z"

        "Z" DINER'S REPORT BY A DINERS FOR A DINER!

-----------------------------------------------------------------
  High prices, barely tolerable quality and the attitude "you're
lucky to be here", that in my opinion sums up the Food & Beverage
industry in the 80's... Now the 90's, the dawn of a new decade and
countdown to a birth of a new century... Will we continue to be
bombarded by inferiority?  Endure the feelings of frustration and
disappointment without the means to ventilate our hostilities?

            The answers to the questions are NO !!

  My goal in writing reviews is to promote interaction between us,
the consumers. I want your opinion and suggestions about places that
you dined, good and bad. I want your opinion and suggestions about
what I wrote, good or bad. If you had a truly bad experience use me
as a sounding board. I will print your experience, personally speak
to the owner/mgr and report back actions taken and/or not taken to
everyone who reads this column. Then I will leave it up to you, the
consumer to decide if an establishment is good enough for your
patronage.

  WE WILL NOT ACCEPT MEDIOCRITY WHEN IT COMES TO OUR HARD EARNED
MONEY AND THE WAY WE SPEND IT.

  This column is dedicated to your concerns and questions, your
opinions and thoughts regarding the food and beverage industry. I will
use my resources the best I can to answer your questions honestly and
correctly. I will agree or disagree with you. This will be a living
and growing forum.

    On the lighter side, I will start a dining club, once a month when
there is enough interest. We will decide on an establishment, dine
there and together we will write a review for a future column.

   The most powerful tool known to human kind is the tool of
communication. This is the tool that we will use to encourage
patronage to qualified restaurants. The tool we will use to tell
owners to either shape up or get the Hell out of business.
Until the next time we meet

Chow mien !  "Z"


Date: 01-17-90 (21:40)               Number: 105
  To: ALL                            Refer#: NONE
From: 'Z'                              Read: (N/A)
Subj: A LITTLE BIT ABOUT MYSELF      Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE



    A brief history about myself, I grew up in Hyde Park, N.Y.
(The home of the Culinary Institute of America).  My career
started as a pot washer, prep cook and short order cook. (The
School of Hard Knocks). Most of my jobs were involved in the
Food and Beverage Industry.  I moved to San Francisco in 1980-
1985. There, I worked as a sous chef, waiter, assistant
manager, manager at an Oyster and Champagne Bar. I also did
free lance work for the Metropolitan Club, an exclusive club
for women.

    I moved to Boston in 1986. I worked at Christopher's in
Cambridge as a manager for two years and free lanced with
Captain Clambake and Catered Occasions. (Catered occasions was
subcontracted to do the Statue of Liberty celebration). I also
worked for the Boston Park Plaza as a host for the Cafe Rouge.
My last job was at the Ritz Carlton, Boston. I worked there
for two years, leaving as a Food and Beverage Controller. I am
now in the process of starting my own business.

    I feel my experience allows me to critique a restaurant
with two sets of eyes. The first being with the knowledge of
how an operation should work, knowing the job descriptions of
employees, understanding the basics of food service. My other
set of eyes allows me the to view and enjoy an establishment
from a consumer's point of view. Combined, it allows me the
ability to write a rounded, impartial review.  My goal is to
write a trustworthy commentary. I balance price to quality.  I
am a stickler for service. When I say service, I mean the
basics: a staff that smiles and enjoys their profession; one
that accepts the fact that the customer is always right no
matter how wrong the customer may actually be. Simple as these
basics sound, many restaurants have a service deficiency.

    I'm not going to concern myself with the high priced,
already established places such as Legal Seafood, Locke
Ober's, Maison Robert.(These type of restaurants are
traditional or special occasion places, a once a year type of
an event). People generally already have a good idea of the
reputation, service etc. I would concentrate on the smaller,
off the beaten path restaurants. I would also be available to
do requests. For special editions, I would like to do a brunch
report, the best breakfast report, the best home style
cooking, etc.

I look forward to hearing from you.

Sincerely yours,

                                        'Z'


Date: 01-17-90 (21:41)               Number: 106
  To: ALL                            Refer#: NONE
From: 'Z'                              Read: (N/A)
Subj: THE STOCKYARD                  Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE


                                  "Z"
                "Z" DINER'S REPORT BY A DINER, FOR A DINER!


STOCKYARD             Open: Mon-Sat.             Cash,Amex,
135 Market st         11:00 am-12:00 am          Mastercard/Visa
Brighton, Mass                                   accepted.
02134
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   A fair price, superb and professional service, consistent food
quality, all seasoned into twenty years of experience and you have
Brighton's own Stockyard restaurant.  The Stockyard has been voted
unanimously by me... as my favorite  family owned, Good  Old American
Beef and Potato dining emporium.

  The Stockyard is spacious with lots of dining room. It is easy
to forget that you are dining in a public restaurant. Unlike it's
neighbor in Allston, Sports Depot. The Stockyard is geared to
family gatherings, business meetings, romantic dinners for two
or a quiet assembly of friends.

  Stockyard's menu will never win awards for innovation. It consists
of the basics. Appetizers: Clam Chowder, Cup $1.75 Bowl $2.50;
Shrimp Cocktail $6.95;  Chicken Wings $4.95 and others.
Entrées, largely, beef and seafood; with the traditional Surf and Turf,
Land and Sea combinations. The foundation of their menu is unfailing
quality and hearty portions. The times I dined there, I had the
"Princess cut" Prime rib about 14 oz, bone in. $12.95. For those of
us who tend to be macho, Don't be fooled by the intimidating name,
it's plenty. The "Size cut" Prime rib is 15.95, the most expensive
price on my menu.  Both portions as well as most of the entrées come
with or come with a combination of: a fresh, crisp, cool Garden salad.
Choice of potato or rice. and a fresh baked loaf of bread. I don't
recommend ordering an appetizer, the accompaniments with the entrées
will be plenty, with left overs to boot.

  If you are looking for nouveau cuisine and purple sauces, the
Stockyard is not your place. If you're looking for a hearty
atmosphere, traditional food done right, a place where you're
not embarrassed to ask for a doggy bag, then The Stockyard
is your dining establishment.


Date: 01-17-90 (21:42)               Number: 107
  To: ALL                            Refer#: NONE
From: 'Z'                              Read: YES (Has Replies)
Subj: MING GARDEN                    Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE

                              "Z"

              "Z"DINER'S REPORT BY A DINER, FOR A DINER!

MING GARDEN         Opens daily 11:30am - 11:00pm  Cash, Amex,
1262 Boylston St.   All you can eat buffet dinner  Mastercard &
Chestnut Hill, Ma,    Sun, Mon, Tues, and Wed.     Visa accepted.

       02167          Adults, $11.95, Children under 12, $6.95
-----------------------------------------------------------------

    There are two types of ethnic restaurants: One that offers a
menu that is authentic; a true representation of the culture which
they claim. And one which represents what they feel Americans
believe represents the culture they claim. The ethnic group that
falls into this quandary repeatedly is the Asian community,
specifically the Chinese community. Through this metamorphosis the
Chinese restaurant has evolved into Szechuan, Mandarin, Cantonese
styles to name a few. We can't forget Japanese, Vietnamese, Korean,
Thai and a relative new comer Polynesian. So to review an ethnic
restaurant you must first determine whether they are Amer-ethnic
(you heard it here first) or ethnic. Remember, Amer-ethnic is a term
that I use to describe a style of American revised ethnic cooking. It
is not meant to be inferred as inferior. Remember American influence
in foreign cuisine has turned an Italian dish, from a thin bread,
flavored with oil and salt to what we all enjoy today as pizza.

   Ming Garden is classified by my definition, amer-ethnic.
Anyone who is thinking about opening a restaurant should first dine
at Ming Garden for a lesson in proper service. The service is
professional and friendly, The waitstaff are where they're supposed
to be,  when they're supposed to be. Food is brought to the table
covered and steaming hot. And never has a waiter not identify  what
he is serving, while he is serving it.  Over all, a standard that
should be replicated.

  The restaurant itself is clean. The seating is o.k. You could end
up in a small section where the tables are uncomfortably close.

  The menu claims Mandarin and Szechuan cuisines. For appetizer, we
had Pan Fried Ravioli (6) $4.25 a little bit oily.  Other app's
include Egg Rolls $3.75, B.B.Q. Boneless Spareribs $5.95 and Chicken
Fingers $5.25. We also had Hot and Sour soup, a dish that is done well
at its worst. It also can be the best I ever had. The negative, no
consistency.  For entrées we had Moo Shi Pork $6.95 the dish was o.k.
ONE VERY BIG NEG, they charged extra for the Bean Paste sauce. To me,
that is like getting one chopstick and getting charged for the use of
the other. We also had Curry Chicken, we used to get curry duck but
they took it off the menu.  One of my favorite dishes at Ming Garden
is Bean Curd, Szechuan Style w/meat $6.50  They offer a buffet
(See above for times and days offered) In my opinion, $11.95 is too
much.

   My overview: the food is plentiful, reasonably priced and
well-prepared. Vegetables are done just right. They keep their colors
and revitalize any plate they accompany. The food is never
unsatisfactory, only occaisionally does a dish really entice the taste
buds. The service makes up for the lack of consistency in the food.

   Over all. Catch a movie, then walk over to Ming Garden and have a
good time. you won't be disappointed.

Chow mein !!


Date: 01-18-90 (23:23)               Number: 108
  To: 'Z'                            Refer#: 104
From: FRED HAPGOOD                     Read: NO
Subj: HELLO THERE                    Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE

NE:

Congratulations on your enterprise.  It will take time to develop
a community of restauranteurs -- is that the word? -- here, but
the right person could make it happen.

How come you're not using your name?

---
 ■ EZ 1.24 ■


Date: 01-19-90 (13:59)               Number: 109
  To: 'Z'                            Refer#: NONE
From: ERIC NEWHOUSE                    Read: NO
Subj: Boston Restaurants             Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE

Dear 'Z',

 Thank you for your detailed and informative restaurant critiques.  As a
relative newcomer to Boston myself (I've been here 2 years), I am still
looking for fine restaurants.

 I have a few requests for you, if you're still taking requests.  Should
you choose to use them, they could keep you busy for a while:

 1.  Review a favorite, or best restaurant for the following ethic
categories (AmerEthnic included): Chinese, Italian, Japanese, Thai,
Mexican, Indian, and European.  Although I occasionally wonder whether a
new restaurant that I see is any good, what I am always looking for is
an exceptional restaurant, no matter where it's located and to some
degree no matter what the price.

 2.  Include as a standard bit of information in reviews whether the
restaurant in question has a full bar.  Some people want to know.

 3.  Include very basic directions in the description (ie. right off 128
in whereever, or right off park st. T stop, etc).

 4.  I personally am interested in restaurants in or very close to
Harrvard Square, since I live right next to the Lars Anderson bridge.
There are a bunch of indian restaurants on Mass Ave. right around there,
as well as a few other interesting restaurants.  I've tried the Border
Cafe, Bertucci's, Pizzeria Uno's, Bangkok House, Chef Chow's, Yen Ching,
and a few other restaurants in the area, and would be curious to hear
how you rated them.  I hear central square has some great restaurants
too.

 5.  Usually I don't eat out except when with someone of the fairer sex.
Atmosphere is an important part of any restuarant, so I humbly request
to you address that in your reviews.

 All in all, you're doing an excellent job providing a very useful
service.  Thank you.

                                                -Eric
---
 * Via ProDoor 3.1ßR


Date: 01-19-90 (14:14)               Number: 110
  To: FRED HAPGOOD                   Refer#: NONE
From: ZZZ ZZZ                          Read: YES
Subj: "Z" REVIEWS                    Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE

  The word is correct, but spelled wrong. (restaurateurs) I have two
reasons for the anonymity: 1) It's fun. 2) On occasion when a
reservation is necessary to dine, I can use my real name and observe a
restaurant in it's natural form.
  I appreciate your warm welcome and enthusiasm. I hope to hear from you
again
  Chow mein,
     "Z"


Date: 01-20-90 (13:35)               Number: 111
  To: 'Z'                            Refer#: 109
From: FREDERICK LONSDALE               Read: NO
Subj: Boston Restaurants             Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE

EN>Dear 'Z',
EN>
EN> Thank you for your detailed and informative restaurant critiques.  A

   And in addition to those items, please mention provisions
   made for smokers, handicapped people and *old* people and
   people with special dietary needs.
---
 ■ EZ 1.24 #135 ■ RelayNet (tm) ONLINE Services Conference Host


Date: 01-23-90 (21:23)               Number: 114
  To: ALL                            Refer#: NONE
From: TOM REVAY                        Read: (N/A)
Subj: Doyle's Braddock Cafe          Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE

Frequent callers to this board know how much I enjoy Doyle's, located
at 3484 Washington Street (tel. [phone]), in exotic Jamaica Plain.
What's good about it?  Well --

 *  first, it has probably the best draft beer in town.  It keeps Sam
    Adams Boston Lager and Boston Ale (made in JP!), Harpoon Ale,
    Guinness Stout, Young's Pale Ale and Special London Ale, Bass,
    Pickwick Ale, a rotating slate of seasonal beers (like Oktoberfest
    and winter beer), plus the usual bland watery miserable lousy
    horrific tasteless wet-air brands like Spudweiser and 'Lite' i.e.
    not beer, all on draft.  They keep the tap lines which run down to
    the cellar spotlessly clean, so the beer always tastes -real good-.
    You never get a skunky one, or a flat one, here.  And if you're a
    Scotch drinker, they have a list of single-malts as long as your
    kilt!

 *  second, the food is -real good-.  I usually get a mushroom and
    garlic pizza, with nice big chunks of fresh garlic.  Friends, this
    kind of pie will keep the wolves away at night (as well as most of
    your friends, unless you made the wise choice to share it with
    them).  Their spinich salad and Greek salad is also quite good,
    though they could improve the dressings.  Other menu stuff is
    largely non-vegetarian (ergo, I don't eat it), but it always -looks-
    good, and it usually includes several daily specials like prime
    rib, schrod, and various pasta dishes with meatballs or sausage.  A
    word of advice:  skip the nachos, and go for either the onion rings
    or the fried mozzerella sticks.  The latter two are superb, and
    there's a healthy portion of either for $2 - $3; nachos, on the
    other hand, are clearly a Doyle's plot to identify and drive out
    the Yuppie element, consisting primarily of some bad tasting
    Dorito's-like chips with a side dish of warmed over CheezWhiz.
    Stick to the stuff they have to cook, and you'll do more than just
    fine.

 *  third, it is -cheap-.  The beer is mostly $2.50 a pint -- that's
    16oz, friends, a nice big glass of the stuff.  A large pizza as
    described is a bit less than $8, and most of the caloric appitizers
    (like the wonderfully fattening potato skins with cheese and sour
    cream) are only a couple bucks.  Two people come out of this place
    -stuffed- and -tipsy- for $25.  What more could you ask for?

 *  fourth, the decor.  This is a real neighborhood place.  Those cheap,
    phony, plastic Bennigans' would KILL to look like Doyle's!
    Authentic WWII propaganda posters above the bar.  Real old-
    fashioned bar murals.  A hallway covered with cork boards plastered
    with notices of local events, postcards, and various political
    commentaries written by hacks of all colors.  Brass rails, green
    curtains, wooden booths with huge backs, and gleaming marble
    bathrooms with chromed fixtures.  Hey, it was opened in the 1880's,
    and like Lake Woebegon, Doyle's is a place that time forgot and
    that the decades cannot improve.

 *  fifth, the clientele.  I met Ted Kennedy there in March, 1988.
    I've seen Ray Flynn come in on more than one occasion, and in fact,
    the Mayor proclaimed January 20 "Doyle's Day" several years ago.
    And, of course, I go there too!  You might just meet me there!

At this point, I can hear you slobbering with Doyle's fever, lusting
for a pizza and a pint -- but you need to know how to get there.  Well,
it's easy!

FROM THE T --
    Take the brand new Orange Line to Forest Hills station.  Walk down
    the steps to the bus kiosk area, and turn left onto Washington
    Street.  Walk past the horribly decrepit old MBTA Green Line
    Arborway station, and up the road about 4 blocks, until it appears
    glowing like Avalon on the right, at Williams Street.  You'll see the
    brightly-lit, greenish, flat rooved building, proudly displaying
    the Anheuser-Busch and Guinness, & Bass logos on alternate sides.

BY CAR, from the north or west --
    Take Rt. 1, north or south, to where it meets Rt. 203 at the
    Arborway traffic circle.  Turn right at that rotary onto 203,
    following the signs to Dorchester.  Because of bridge repairs, the
    overpass at the Forest Hills T station is closed; get off the ramp
    at that station (it's the only way they'll let you go), and take a
    left at the bottom of the ramp.  Take your first right, then your
    first left, onto Washington Street.  Doyle's is about 4 blocks up
    on the right.

BY CAR, from the south or east --
    Get onto Rt. 203 (Gallivan Bvld), and head west toward Jamaica
    Plain.  Keep right around the Franklin Park traffic circle, taking
    the exit next to the ramp to the currently-closed overpass.  Take a
    right turn onto Washington Street.  Doyle's is -still- four blocks
    up from that turn.

This is one of my local hangouts, friends, and it's a place where
everybody -might- know your name if you come often enough.  It's also a
lot more Boston than the Hampshire House ever hopes to be.  Cheers!
...................Tom
─────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────
    Stand on the Gospels and you'll be taller.
        -- Sparrow (New York poet)
─────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────
---
 ■ DeLuxe 1.11ß18 #2345


Date: 01-23-90 (21:23)               Number: 115
  To: ALL                            Refer#: NONE
From: TOM REVAY                        Read: (N/A)
Subj: The Perfect Pint               Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE

Just last night, my dear friend and I were discussing where we had
our best pint of Guinness ... ever.  She told me that hers was at the
music festival at Lisdoonvarna, Co. Clare, Ireland, in 1982.  It musta
been good ... Christy Moore wrote a song about it, and the creamy
pints on a tray to be found there.

As for myself, I'd have to say it was at Ward's Pub, Kiltulla,
Athinry, Co. Galway, in December, 1988.  We'd just seen a play at the
Druid Lane Theater in Galway City, and at 11:15 we were lurching and
thundering down the dark, narrow lanes between the stone walls and
hedgerows in our tiny Austin Metro-City car, trying to reach the pub
before the 11:30 closing time.  Yes, friends -- 11:30pm is the winter
closing hour for pubs in Ireland! Fortunately, this tiny little
thatched-rooved place out in the Wesht uv' Éire was open quite
illegally until one o'clock that night, and true to form, my cousin
bought me two pints of the black stuff right away in her usual effort
to send me to bed with a smile and then awake with a headache.

Unfortunately, even at IR £1.40, a mere $2.10 by our cash, the $600
round-trip fare on Aer Lingus makes a trip to Galway for a pint
uneconomical, and 1982 only comes around once in a great while. And
since the Guinness on this side of the ocean tends to thin out when
it's stored and poured improperly, I don't usually drink it in most
places in the US.  There are three pubs which do receive my punts for
their pints, though, and it's these that this long introduction has
brought me around to.

First, the best Guinness stout I've had in the US has been at
Limerick's, just off Milk Street, in Boston's Financial District.
The place is a tad posh for my tastes -- hardwood floors, everything
polished up real nice, a loud teevee blasting at'cha from up above
when there's not an over-amplified band blasting from behind, and
it's a pricey $3.50 for a pint.  Still, they do a really good job at
it -- they use proper stout glasses with the bulge just a half inch
from the rim, and they do pour -slowly-, the secret to any good
Guinness service. The technique is an art:   2/3 of the glass is
poured, then it's left to settle.  Then the glass is filled, and a
head is put on it.  If it's not completely black and opaque, the
drinker -must- let it settle a bit more, until those amazing foamy
currents waft their way to the top.  Only then can the happy imbiber
draw a smiley face on it, and if it's -really- good, that face will
still be smiling back in the creamy head when the glass is empty.
Sadly, this is not the case with Limerick's stout, but I suppose any
keg would tire after travelling from St. James' Gate in Dublin to
Batterymarch Street in Boston.

What Limerick's lacks in real working-class pub atmosphere the
Brendan Behan on Centre Street in Jamaica Plain more than makes up
for.  You won't find a teevee (there's a tropical fishtank in the
cubbyhole where it would sit), you won't find polished floors (they
seem to be a uniform black everywhere), and on most nights after 10
and on weekend evenings after seven, you probably won't find a seat.
Their Guinness gets a bit rushed on these evenings; they should let
it set more, but I guess they only have so much space on the bar, and
at only $2.50 a pint, they sell briskly.  The fellas who run this
place are great too, even though Patsy won't listen to the Pogues and
has been known to play The Smiths on the stereo system. (Sorry, you
ultra-cool Smith fans out there -- Morrissey reminds me of eating
Maypo for breakfast. Bland, boring, and real mushy.  But I digress.)

Finally, there's the Midnight Court, on Milk Street, just around the
corner from Limerick's.  In this place, the secret to getting a good
Guinness is to have someone with an Irish accent order it.  Truly,
there are Americans who go to Ireland and order the national drink,
only to complain that the bartender didn't serve it promptly; such is
the our nature in this rush everywhere society that we sometimes
forget to leave time for Muvver Nature to do her work (in this case,
settle the stout).  I've received pints in this joint that have been
dumped in the jar like oil in the crankcase (glug! glug! glug!), but
this past weekend, a fellow from Derry bought me a properly-poured
one that was really tasty.  Like Limerick's, they feature Irish
music, but it's in a room off the bar, allowing barflys like me to
hone our verbal skills with other like-minded Knights of the Brass
Rail.  It retains a few drawbacks:  being only a block from the
Aquarium, the Midinight Court sometimes gets a bit touristy -- "Oh,
look, Harry!  An Irish bar!  Let's go have a Beefeater and
Schweppes!"  Personally, I'm also still worried that the large woman
who proposed to me there a Thanksgiving ago will find me and heave me
into a firemans' carry, hefting me back to her mansion in Marblehead
or Martha's Vineyard or Malden (she seemed confused as to where she
lived ... seriously, friends, she asked me Ma for permission to wed
... aww, forget it).  But if a pint isn't worth the risk, then it's
not worth the price.
...................Tom
─────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────
    8279.  LOBSTER CLAW HARMONICA.  One great boiled red plastic claw,
    6 1/2" long.  A harmonica in crustacean clothing! No knowledge of
    music needed!  Start your own band with 4 for $7.95.
        -- from the Archie McPhee catalog
─────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────
---
 ■ DeLuxe 1.11ß18 #2345


Date: 01-26-90 (09:17)               Number: 121
  To: ALL                            Refer#: NONE
From: ZZZ ZZZ                          Read: (N/A)
Subj: CULINARY QUIZ                  Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE

                      "Z" CULINARY TERMS
                 (NOT CULINARY USER FRIENDLY)
  Can you guess or do you know which culinary definition is correct.
Only one of the four options is a true definition. The other options
are blatant lies. The answers next week. Have fun!!!

Ramekin:

 1)  A tool used to crush or ground herbs and spices
 2)  A relative to the late General Rame, Hence the term "next of kin"
 3)  A small village 100 miles east of Rome in the Mediterranean sea
 4)  A small straight-sided souffle dish, 3-4 inches in diameter,
    in oven proof china or glass


Ruster Ausbruch:

1)  A chemist who lived in Germany. When cleaning his cast iron pots,
    he kept noticing a re-occurring orange stain. Hence the first
    discovery of rust.
2)  A dense, often sweet late harvest Austrian white wine, produced
    near Rust in the Burgenland.
3)  The name Anheuser-Busch  when translated into Greek.

4)  A technique Bakers use to air brush Rust Cream, when decorating
    a cake.


Sprat:

1)  A small fish 4.5 to 6 inches long, similar to the sardine.

2)  A fisherman's term: It's time to sprat or let's get spratting.
    The term comes from the sound that the fish makes when thrown on
    the deck of a ship after being removed from a net.
3   A French Chef from the 17th century, Jacque Spratt. A name sake
    from the Mother Goose's Fairy Tale... Jack Sprat could eat no
    fat...
4)  The first to advertise "All natural" a soft drink manufactured
in New Jersey. Also the first to use cocaine as an ingredient.
Went out of business in 1959.

Advocatt:

1)  Catherine Advocatt, who in the late 1700's was about to be hung for
    protesting the restriction of women not being a llowed to
    cook in professional kitchens. Hence the term advocate.  Napoleon
    intervened to save her life just an hour before the execution was
    to take place.

2)  A liqueor made with beaten egg yolks, sugar and spirit.
3)  A nectar produced from the Advocatt plant found in the orthwest,
    U.S.A. Used as an elixir by the early settlers.

4)  The third level of power or authority in the ranks of a
    professional kitchen. The Chef is # 1, The Sous chef is # 2 and the
            Advocatt is third.


Escarole:

1)  A vegetable generally eaten in green salad, similar to curly
    endive only with broader leaves, also known as Batavia.
2)  A bank account created specifically for new restaurants before
    they open for business.  Because of the high risks, purveyors
    demand that such an account is established prior to extending
    credit.
3)  The wife of Auguste Escoffier, Escarole Melba Escoffier also known
    as Carole Melba Escoffier.
4)  The Escarole dish is the same as the casserole dish except in
    which the manner dish is served. When serving an Escarole dish,
    only your left hand may be used. A law created by King James,
    the Thirtieth. Needless to say he was left handed. This type of
    service is all but obsolete.

                                 "Z"


Date: 01-26-90 (09:20)               Number: 122
  To: ALL                            Refer#: NONE
From: ZZZ ZZZ                          Read: (N/A)
Subj: CONSUMER'S POINT OF VIEW       Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE

                         "Z"s DO's and DON'Ts
                (What Restaurants do that piss me off)

    Play it Again Sams (Comm Ave, Allston) surprised me with a
completed credit card voucher, no tip included. When I inquired why?
To my surprise I was told that the management doesn't want  customers
to charge tips. They (Play it Again Sams) have to pay an additional
percentage amount that the credit card company charges to
establishments for the use of the credit cards. On top of that I was
told that Sam's taxes would be increased because they have to claim
additional income due to credit card tips.

  I spoke with another waitperson/barperson and asked what happens
if a guest refuses to leave a cash tip? The response was "I get
stiffed."

   My understanding of how restaurants are taxed is, maybe Sam's has
to include the charge tips as income. But then, it is backed out as
an expense and therefore never taxed at all. I could be wrong.

  If someone who does taxes or understands how tax law works, please
take the time to enlighten us. I'm sure that there are a lot of people
interested in the correct answer.

   My answer to Play it Again Sam's is that they nickel and dime us
as a consumer to death. I am insulted of such a policy. And I feel
that their management style is that of a coward. Why make the wait
person the instrument of your penny pinching. If the additional 4 or
5 % is that difficult to swallow then don't accept credit cards at
all. But you would rather deceive the guest. Let them believe that
they can use their credit card like they would at any other
restaurant. Then when it comes time to pay the bill you use a
waitperson to let the guest know that they have been duped.
Shame on you, Sam's !!!

   If you the reader feel the same as I do, or you disagree, give
Play it Again Sam's a call (617-232-4242) and either advocate their
policy or show your disgust and tell them to shape up or get the hell
out of business.

   WE WILL NOT ACCEPT MEDIOCRITY WHEN IT COMES TO OUR HARD EARNED
MONEY AND THE WAY WE SPEND IT!!!


                              "Z"


Date: 01-25-90 (22:15)               Number: 123
  To: ALL                            Refer#: NONE
From: ZZZ ZZZ                          Read: (N/A)
Subj: REVIEW OF 'SPORTS DEPOT'       Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE

                              "Z"

              "Z"DINERS REPORT FOR DINERS BY A DINER!

SPORTS DEPOT        Opens daily 11:30am - 1:00am   Cash, Amex,
353 Cambridge St.                                  Mastercard &
Boston, Mass. 02134                                Visa accepted.
[phone]
Non-Smoking section available.               (3) Full bars
Fully accessable for the physically impaired.
-----------------------------------------------------------------

   If the rumble & pandemonium of megaton trains thundering by at
60 miles an hour doesn't exhilarate you... Or the enthusiasm of a
sold out crowds cheering while the Celtics pounce the Lakers at the
garden, isn't your cup of tea... Then, I recommend that you stay away
from the Sports Depot. Once known as the Allston Depot, now called the
Sports Depot. It is located about 30 ft. from the railroad tracks at
Harvard and Cambridge st. I've dined at the S.D. many times. Their
strongest attribute is the atmosphere. Every time I dined at S.D. I've
always had to hold on to my seat as the commuter rail storms  heading
for Boston. In order to enjoy this thrill you'll need to be seated in
the non- smoking section. I've also discovered that the best seats for
watching sporting events are available at the Sports Depot. With many
other sport's bars, they offer a dark smoky room with a big screen t.v.
limited to whatever the bartender decides to watch. The Sports Depot is
loaded with colored televisions everywhere including the rest rooms.
You're never too far from viewing any of the many sporting events from
the comfort of your table. The games are not just limited to the
Celtics, Bruins  or Sox. I've seen Jai Ali, Kiddie Hockey, International
Soccer and much more.

   The food is good and reasonably priced. For appetizers I always
have Boneless Buffalo Wings ($5.95). It's well worth it. You get plenty
of chicken in a tangy hot sauce. My favorite! Their menu offers a decent
variety of salads, burgers, sandwiches, seafood, beef and chicken dishes
leaning towards Tex-Mex. Most entrées include a bowl (not a plate) of
mixed green salad, vegetables or potato, rice if you request and hot
bread. I ordered Prime Rib Au Jus med rare (11.95). My dining guest also
ordered Prime Rib well done. I don't know why, but we never get well
done, well done and the prime rib could be leaner. I always go home full
and content carrying a doggy bag. Quantity and quality of the food are
consistently good. The neg point is the service is inexperienced, at
best, poor. So be prepared, go expecting an exciting atmosphere and
plenty of good food. And you won't be disappointed.

                                        "Z"



Date: 01-26-90 (09:15)               Number: 124
  To: ALL                            Refer#: NONE
From: ZZZ ZZZ                          Read: (N/A)
Subj: REVIEW OF CACTUS               Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE


                              "Z"

              "Z"DINER'S REPORT BY A DINER, FOR A DINER!

CACTUS CLUB          Non-Smoking section available.   Cash, Amex,
939 Boylston St.         [phone]               Mastercard
Boston, Ma. 02116                                     Visa accepted.
                           Full Liquor license
                  Valet parking Available
       NOT fully accessible for the physically impaired.
------------------------------------------------------------------

  Iron Mike Byson, a lot of bull?  Prairie Oysters, maybe or maybe
not the balls, but you'll go nuts over 'em.  The Cactus Club, just
another Tex-Mex place?  Well ¿puedo ver la carta, por favor?

  The Cactus Club opened their doors about 7 mos ago. It's located
across the street from The Hynes Convention Center, a short walk from
either the Symphony (the closest) or Copley T stop.
  My first thought was that The Cactus Club was going to be another
Boylston Street, over priced hang out spot for single yuppies. I was
partially right, the prices are fair and reasonable. As for the
single yuppies, O'well.

  We first tried dining their on Friday (7:30pm), but the wait was 45
minutes. So we tried again on Saturday around 6:30. We were seated
right away. The tables are small and crowded together. If there is
going to be four of you dining, I suggest that you tell the host or
hostess 5, unless you don't mind rubbing knees.

  The Host person was pleasant but artificial. I felt uninvited, maybe
I'm too sensitive. So what, I'm paying the bill. The waitstaff and
support staff all wore blue jeans and a Cactus Club T shirt. The
service was enthusiastic, but needs refinement to establish
professionalism .

  The menu is wonderful, lots of variety and complete with it's own
glossary.

   Appetizers consist of some Tex-Mex classics.  Nachos, made with
fresh tortilla chips topped with cheese and beans $5.95 or refried
beans, bacon and cheese $5.95 or mixed cheese $5.75. Mucho Macho
Nachos - cheese, chili, jalapenos, sour cream, guacamole and salsa
$8.50. I have a problem paying $8.50 for nachos. But if you're there
to have a good time and to drink beer(don't drive), then maybe Mucho
Macho Nachos at $8.50 is not such a bad bargain. I recommend the Texas
Pu Pu Platter: a Chef's choice of four appetizers, $3.95 a person,
4 person minimum. Our platter consisted of Cinnamon Chorizo Empanadas,
(excellent Item, very tasty) $4.75, if ordered separately. Spicy New
Mexican Chicken Wings,(wings were not very meaty but the sauce was Hot
and admirable) $5.95, if ordered separately. Corn Fritters with Red
Chile maple syrup (sauce was good, Fritters O.K.)$4.95, if ordered
separately. And Fried Chicken Ravioli (not over fried or greasy, also
fantastic). This was not offered as a separate menu item on our menu.
  Entrées are as exciting as the appetizers. We had New Mexican Ribs,
$10.95, a healthy portion of marinated baby back ribs with grilled
potato salad, ranch beans and jalapeno corn bread. We also had the
Casserole of Grilled Chicken and rice with avocados, tomatoes,
scallions, corn and chilies, $7.50. Other menu items include Pan Fried
Catfish with seafood and corn Tamale, $8.50. Grilled Cactus Club
Hamburger with home made french fries and salsa $5.50 and many more
enticing food items.

  In my opinion the Cactus Club has the best Quality food and service
to price ratio in the Back Bay. Their food is plentiful and delicious.
Quality is obvious even to the non-gourmet. The atmosphere is pleasant
but a bit crowded. A rough place to bring toddlers or infants. The
woman's restroom is too small for the size of the restaurant.
Accessibility for the physically impaired is poor. It's a very big
negative considering that The Cactus Club is a new establishment.

  Over all I suggest dining there. Don't forget to ask for Iron Mike
Byson!

  Until next week, Adios and Chow Mein !!!

                                   "Z"


Date: 01-30-90 (19:24)               Number: 131
  To: ZZZ ZZZ                        Refer#: 122
From: TOM REVAY                        Read: YES
Subj: CONSUMER'S POINT OF VIEW       Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE

ZZ>    Play it Again Sams (Comm Ave, Allston) surprised me with a
ZZ>completed credit card voucher, no tip included. When I inquired why?
ZZ>To my surprise I was told that the management doesn't want  customers
ZZ>to charge tips.

Isn't that just too bad?  Well ..

ZZ>They (Play it Again Sams) have to pay an additional percentage amount
ZZ>that the credit card company charges to establishments for the use of
ZZ>the credit cards.

ZZ>  I spoke with another waitperson/barperson and asked what happens
ZZ>if a guest refuses to leave a cash tip? The response was "I get
ZZ>stiffed."

Every business on the planet that chooses to accept credit cards has
to pay a fee to accept the card.  If they prefer, they can refuse to
accept them, or they can charge an additional fee, stated up front,
to accept a charge card, as many gasoline stations do.  Of course,
that would be bad for business -- it discourages folks from
spending.  So, instead, Sam's allows you to pay the management on the
card, but the employees have to hope that the customer has a few
loose bills in their pocket so that they can get a tip.

ZZ>On top of that I was told that Sam's taxes would be increased because
ZZ>they have to claim additional income due to credit card tips.

But if they give it to the employees, then it's a deduction, just as
the employees' wages are; the business doesn't pay tax on the
employees' income, the employees do!  If, on the other hand, they're
keeping cash tips and not telling the IRS, then they're ripping off
the taxpayers, which is to say, -us-.

(Personally, I can't believe they'd do this.  It's too blatant, and
the Federal slammer awaits those who would try such a shoddy
flim-flam.  I suspect this is a specious reason to try to justify
their ridiculous behavior.  By telling you, "Oh, it increases our
taxes unjustly," I suspect they're trying to evoke your sympathy in
these months when we all have to determine what our tax bill was for
the last year.)

ZZ>I am insulted of such a policy. And I feel that their management
ZZ>style is that of a coward. Why make the wait person the instrument of
ZZ>your penny pinching. If the additional 4 or 5 % is that difficult to
ZZ>swallow then don't accept credit cards at all. But you would rather
ZZ>deceive the guest. Let them believe that they can use their credit
ZZ>card like they would at any other restaurant. Then when it comes time
ZZ>to pay the bill you use a waitperson to let the guest know that they
ZZ>have been duped.  Shame on you, Sam's !!!

Sam's policy -is- outrageous.  It amounts to a slap at their
customers, for not stating the policy up front and justifying it
before the meal is ordered, and it is also a slap at their employees
because the establishment clearly discourages tipping even though the
employees wages are dependent upon collecting tips.  Essentially, so
long as Sam's owners get their cut, then anyone else can be damned!

I lived near Sam's for several years, eating there at least once a
week, and at that time, I generally paid in cash.  I was last there
about two months ago, and as I recall, I paid in cash then, too.
Hearing this now, I'm inclined to avoid the place entirely, and head
up Comm Ave to the El Phoenix room, or down Harvard Street in
Brookline where there are several fine restaurants.  There's no
particular reason why I should visit Sam's, and their kind of crass
attitude regarding their customers and employees gives me good cause
to avoid the place.
...................Tom
─────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────
    "It's not pinein', it's passed on!  It's a stiff!  It's lost it's
    breath of life!  If you hadn't nailed it to the perch, it'd be six
    feet under, pushing up daisies!  This is an ex-parrot!"
─────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────
---
 ■ DeLuxe 1.11ß18 #2345


Date: 02-01-90 (19:57)               Number: 135
  To: ALL                            Refer#: NONE
From: ZZZ ZZZ                          Read: (N/A)
Subj: 12TH INTERNATIONAL +           Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE

                     "Z" RESTAURANT REVIEWS

            "Z" DINER'S REPORT BY A DINER  FOR A DINER !

    Coming up - March 2-4.  The 12th International Food and Nutrition
Show. A healthy cornucopia of self indulgence, 225 booths of all you
can eat Yogurt, Soy products, Organically grown produce, Whole wheat
baked goods. Also available are Chefs and cookbook authors. An
Anti-Cholesterol Pro-Health extravaganza is happening at the
Hartford Civic Center. For additional info call 203-529-2123, $6.00
admission.


-----------------------------------------------------------------
Last week's answers To America's favorite  "Z" Quiz
Ramekin=4, Ruster Ausbruch=2, Sprat=1, Advocatt=2, Escarole=1
*****************************************************************


Date: 02-01-90 (20:14)               Number: 136
  To: ALL                            Refer#: NONE
From: ZZZ ZZZ                          Read: (N/A)
Subj: THAT CUP OF COFFEE..TO GO      Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE

COFFEE COFFEE COFFEE COFFEE COFFEE COFFEE COFFEE COFFEE COFFEE

      Where to go for your morning cup of coffee to go

  First known  as Qahwah (Arabic) or Kahve (Turkish). The Arabic word
originally designated as any stimulating beverage. The Italians call
it Caffè and we all know it as Coffee.

   The simple morning ritual of awakening with a fresh cup of Java
has emerged from a modest stainless steel percolator coffee pot and
a can of Hills Brothers coffee. Now, it has become a market saturated
with automatic drip coffee makers and mega selections of fresh roasted
coffee beans found at expensive speciality stores and local
supermarkets.

   I searched out coffee vendors of all varieties. Food trucks
(a.k.a. Roach Coaches) to Gourmet coffee suppliers and everything in
between. Quality or brand of coffee, was not a criteria, just
availability and price were my only concern.

  Dunkin Donuts is my favorite over all dependable,
"morning coffee place". The original D.D. was founded by William
Rosenberg in 1950 in Quincy, Mass. Today, worldwide, there are
1,900 D.D. 1,561 of those located in the U.S.A. No matter what town
I might find myself, if there is a Dunkin Donuts, I know when I order
"THE Big One" I'll get a fairly good quality cup of coffee. Never
burned or tasting as if it were sitting around all day. The price
varies  place to place. For example: The Big One (14oz) at D.D.
Porter Square or Sullivan Sq T stop costs a $1.05 or.075/oz; at
Central Sq $1.00 or .071/oz and D.D. on Causeway Street in Boston or
at Harvard St in Allston $.99 or .070/oz.

   The relative newcomers in the "coffee to go" arena are the Convenient
stores. The two major complaints I have with convenient stores are
that they are not too conscientious of how aged a pot of coffee might
be. This problem occurs more often in the afternoon and evening after
the coffee rush has subsided. The other problem is the lack of
availability or the choice of regular milk to add to your coffee.
Otherwise when their coffee is fresh it is usually good and you have
the option of self service which is nice, being you can control the
sweetness and darkness of each cup you purchase.

   The best place for choice of condiments to accompany your cup of
coffee and cleanliness is the 7-eleven  on 750 Mass Ave in Cambridge
across from the Post office. Their biggest cup of coffee at 20 oz for
$.89 or .044¢/oz includes a choice of cream, milk, 1/2 & 1/2, Irish
mocha cream or Amaretto cream (non-alcoholic) . To me, it is not so
much the items they offer, but the fact that they offer it, and offer
it at no extra charge. It is these subtle hints of service that I rate
as first class and guarantee a return visit when I'm in Cambridge.

  Store 24 stores offer a good cup of coffee. In my opinion, some of
the stores need to improve the cleanliness and convenience of their
coffee area. It is obvious that their concern is the dollar value of
their retail space and not customer ease of accessibility. Cost of a
16oz cup coffee $.80 or .05¢/oz.

  White Hen Pantry, located on Tremont & Marginal St. It is O.K. all
around, clean, reasonable space and $.89 for 20oz cup or .044¢/oz.

Some restaurants that offer coffee to go:
  Tremont Ice Cream, located at Tremont & Public Alley 701 near Union
St. $.75 for 12oz or .062¢/oz (Good Breakfast under $5.00)

  Blue Diner, located at Kneeland & South St. $.65 for 10oz or .065¢/oz
(look for a review in the future) They have the best coffee cups.

  The Steaming Kettle, located at Government Center.(steaming tea pot)
$.68 for 10oz or.068¢/oz

Some unconventional spots for coffee to go:
  Food trucks or Roach coaches: Located at Huntington Ave and also at
Forsyth St. at Northeastern University. The better buys are the two
trucks on Forsyth St. $.55 for 10oz. The two trucks on Huntington Ave
charge $.60 for 10oz.

The biggest cup of coffee to go:
   Sparr's Pharmacy, located at Huntington and Longwood Ave., $1.20
for 22oz or.054¢/oz. Sparr is a pharmacy and diner in one. Not many
of these around anymore. It is worth the visit for posterity sake.

The most Expensive:
  The Coffee Connection, located all over Boston area, $1.35 for 16oz
or .084¢/oz. The Coffee Connection is for the coffee connoisseur. The
prices are high. You're paying for quality. You will never have
anything less but an excellent cup of coffee.

   For those who still have time to enjoy coffee at home, it is
suggested that freshly brewed coffee not sit around on direct heat
for more than a 1/2 hour. If you will not finish the coffee within a
1/2 hour, it is suggested that the coffee be kept in a thermos.
     Until next week.

     Chow Mein11
        "Z"


Date: 02-01-90 (20:21)               Number: 137
  To: ALL                            Refer#: NONE
From: ZZZ ZZZ                          Read: (N/A)
Subj: THE BOSTONIAN DELI             Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE

                               "Z"

            "Z" DINER'S REPORT BY A DINER  FOR A DINER !


BOSTONIAN DELI       Hours Mon-Thur 7am-8pm    Fax [phone]
116 Cambridge street    Fri      7am-7pm    Take out(617)367-1460
Boston, Mass.           Sat      7am-3pm
                        Sun      8am-2pm
Non-smoking section NOT available.
Unaccessible for the physically impaired.   No Alcohol.
----------------------------------------------------------------

   Because my dining reports are geared to the dollar wise diner, you'll
notice I'm impressed more by dollar value than frills. Don't get me
wrong I enjoy the f rills. But I don't want the majority of my check
paying for them.

   One other point, I don't critique an establishment on one experience.
All of my reviews are based on at least two visits and generally
more than two. A bad experience on the first visit guarantees
a second visit. Let's face it, we all have bad days and a
true value should also be based on how a manager/owner reacts in
rectifying a p roblem. Although there is no excuse for frequent
problems, a single problem hand led professionally and satisfyingly
deserves positive recognition and continued patronage.

   For a quick no frills lunch I recommend the Bostonian Deli located on
Cambrid ge St., 5 mins from City Hall/J.F.K. Fed Building.
B.D's menu is a blend of a N. Y. style deli and a pre 70's diner.
Some of the offerings consist of bagel and cream cheese (.95)
or raisin toast (.75). Both are part of their breakfast menu.

   One of my visits I had a New Yorker ($4.25) mounds of cornbeef, Swiss
cheese in perfect proportion to the meat, cole slaw and Russian
dressing. In my opinion, a perfect sandwich.

   Their menu is one of homestyle cooking, simple and plentiful, no
sprouts. My l ast meal was a turkey dinner special ($5.95)
about 5oz of sliced moist, tender Turkey breast (cut in front of you,
off the bird). Corn bread stuffing with a heaping mound of real mashed
potatoes and of course green peas. Also included is a choice of
bread, roll or pita bread. The only neg point is cranberry
sauce in individual containers (o'well).

   The Bostonian Deli is rather small and untidy to be polite. You order
from the counter. Seating is confusing. I recommend you go
off peak hours or get your food to go.

   The Bostonian Deli is a fine example of no frills dining,
just Quality...

                                  Chow mein
                                     "Z"U


Date: 02-03-90 (07:03)               Number: 139
  To: 'Z'                            Refer#: 104
From: BARRY SCHEUR                     Read: NO (Has Replies)
Subj: HELLO THERE                    Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE

This is a wonderful idea. Rather than
focusing on a single establishment, I would like to share a personal
beef regarding the lack of quality eating establishments in
the Newton area.
It is astounding to me that whenever we are going
out for either a quick family dinner oh
or something a little more upscale, we have
to go somewhere else.
More than any other town or suburb surrounding Boston, Newton has seen
a never ending list of mediocre establishments come with great fanfare,
furn slightly with average to poor food/service, and go out of
business.
Excepting the Abruzzi chain and the Chestnut Hill Legal Seafood,
the pickings are pretty slim! Does anybody agree?
/


Date: 02-03-90 (07:15)               Number: 140
  To: 'Z'                            Refer#: 107
From: BARRY SCHEUR                     Read: NO (Has Replies)
Subj: MING GARDEN                    Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE

I will echo your sentiments. I eat at Ming (or actually,
have their food delivered by Delicious Deliveries twice or
three times a week.
Their Jordan Chicken, the equivalent of a General
Chao's or Gao's chicken, depending upon where you are eating,
is unfailingly well prepared, slightly crisp,
and moist. The boneless spareribs appetizer is just about
the best of its type in the area
(my kids hate Chinese food but eat that one,
so it must be OK).
Unlike most k<ffets, they put their better dishes out
so the price seems slightly high but
justifiable.
Barry.


Date: 02-03-90 (15:25)               Number: 141
  To: BARRY SCHEUR                   Refer#: 139
From: ERIC NEWHOUSE                    Read: NO
Subj: NEWTON RESTAURANTS             Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE


 I really like the Amarin Thai restaurant near Newton Corner and Main St.
Although it's not the best Thai food I've ever eaten, the value for the
dollar is excellent.  I'd rate the food 4 on a scale of 5, service 4/5,
and pricing 3.5/5 (Around $8 entrees at dinner time).  An all around
value considering the shortage of good restaurants in The
Cambridge/Newton/Brookline area.
  Overall Ratings:

    Quality: ****
    Price  : $$
    Service: ***

    Overall: ****

For those interested, Amarin IS accesable by wheelchair and serves wine
and beer.
---
 ■ Via ProDoor 3.2ßR


Date: 02-03-90 (15:30)               Number: 142
  To: BARRY SCHEUR                   Refer#: 140
From: ERIC NEWHOUSE                    Read: NO
Subj: DELICIOUS DELIVERIES           Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE

How can I get a menu of what Delicious Deliveries delivers?  What is
their phone number?

                                                -Eric

---
 ■ Via ProDoor 3.2ßR


Date: 02-06-90 (18:40)               Number: 143
  To: ALL                            Refer#: NONE
From: RICHARD CARREIRO                 Read: (N/A)
Subj: The Wizard of Speed And T      Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE

Hi.  Does anyone know which, if any, video stores have copied of
Mike Jittlov's _The Wizard of Speed and Time_ available for rental?
It was released on videotape on 2/3/90.

Thanks in advance!

-- Rich
.
---
 ■ Via ProDoor 3.2ßR


Date: 02-06-90 (22:38)               Number: 144
  To: RICHARD CARREIRO               Refer#: 143
From: GORDON HAFF                      Read: YES
Subj: The Wizard of Speed And T      Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE

RC>Hi.  Does anyone know which, if any, video stores have copied of
RC>Mike Jittlov's _The Wizard of Speed and Time_ available for rental?
RC>It was released on videotape on 2/3/90.

Ooh.  I want.  I want.

                    ══ Gordon ══
---
 ■ DeLuxe 1.11ß17 #838  If there isn't a law, there will be.


Date: 02-08-90 (20:20)               Number: 145
  To: TOM REVAY                      Refer#: 131
From: BRUCE CANTOR                     Read: YES
Subj: CONSUMER'S POINT OF VIEW       Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE

ZZ>    Play it Again Sams (Comm Ave, Allston) surprised me with a
ZZ>completed credit card voucher, no tip included. When I inquired why?

ZZ>To my surprise I was told that the management doesn't want  customers

ZZ>to charge tips.

TR>I suspect this is a specious reason to try to justify
TR>their ridiculous behavior.  By telling you, "Oh, it increases our
TR>taxes unjustly," I suspect they're trying to evoke your sympathy in
TR>these months when we all have to determine what our tax bill was for
TR>the last year.)

TR>Sam's policy -is- outrageous.  It amounts to a slap at their
TR>customers, for not stating the policy up front and justifying it
TR>before the meal is ordered, and it is also a slap at their employees
TR>because the establishment clearly discourages tipping even though the

TR>employees wages are dependent upon collecting tips.  Essentially, so
TR>long as Sam's owners get their cut, then anyone else can be damned!

This is becoming more prevalent.  My wife and I frequent the Dellaria
Salon on Newbury St.  They also do not allow credit card tips.  Their
reason is that "we don't have that kind of contract with the bank" so
that you can't directly blame it on them.  Given our current shortage
of cash (and soon to be shortage of available credit) this has caused
us trouble more than once.  My wife even left me there one day while
she ran around trying to find an ATM to get the cash to leave a tip.

I'm going back in next Saturday.  I intend to make a little noise about
it this time.  The only justification I can think of is that the
retailer is charged a use fee which is a fixed percentage of the total
amount charged.  I don't know if this is completely accurate, as it
would mean the fee is also charged on sales taxes, and I'm not sure
as to the legality of that.

For what it's worth.
---
 ■ EZ 1.25 ■ Read WHICH Novell manual?


Date: 02-08-90 (21:54)               Number: 147
  To: BRUCE CANTOR                   Refer#: 145
From: FREDERICK LONSDALE               Read: YES
Subj: CONSUMER'S POINT OF VIEW       Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE

BC>This is becoming more prevalent.  My wife and I frequent the Dellaria
BC>Salon on Newbury St.  They also do not allow credit card tips.  Their
BC>reason is that "we don't have that kind of contract with the bank" so
BC>that you can't directly blame it on them.  Given our current shortage

    I think there is a bit of double speak on the part of
    Dellaria. I am not in this business, but I have been
    told that a store pays a nominal monthly fee for a
    particular credit card. In addition, the credit company
    gets from a low of 1 to 1.5% of charged sales [DISCOVER]
    to a high of 4 to 5% [American Express]. The greater the
    amount of charged sales, the lower the rate.

    A small restaurant may have a problem with tips, because
    the waiters might want the money nightly or weekly while
    the owner might have to wait 14 or more days for his money.
    This might be equivalent to a loan to the waiters. Of course,
    they could discount the amount of the tips charged. Anyway,
    the restaurant would have to apply witholding on the charged
    tips. Thus, the owner would average 3 months float on about
    8% of the charged tip.

    I bet that the waiters would prefer cash tips over charged
    tips. That way they can play more games with the IRS. If
    there are no paper records of tips, it is pretty hard for the
    IRS to get a good estimate of a waiters tip income.

    Any time I have eaten out, I have never encountered this
    problem. Maybe I don't go to the right places. ;-)

  --Fred, 9:38 PM  February 8, 1990
---
 ■ EZ 1.24 #135 ■ RelayNet (tm) ONLINE Services Conference Host


Date: 02-08-90 (22:25)               Number: 148
  To: ALL                            Refer#: NONE
From: ZZZ ZZZ                          Read: (N/A)
Subj: review of Hop Too's           Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE


                              "Z"

           "Z" DINER'S REPORT BY A DINER, FOR A DINER!

      HOP TOO'S               HOP TOO'S             HOP TOO'S
62 Washington  St.      217 Highland St.      1 Lans Downe St
Brighton, Mass          Somerville, Mass.     Boston, Mass.
   [phone]          [phone]        [phone]

                   TAKE OUT OR DELIVERY ONLY
                             NO CREDIT CARDS ACCEPTED
------------------------------------------------------------------
                        Too go, or not Too go?

  Hop Too's is a truly Amer-ethnic restaurant, right up to the point
that it is a franchise. Hop Too's claims that their menu is like an
excursion through China. Nice try, I don't get that same feeling.

  Hop Too's menu is a decent menu for both the quality of the paper
that it is printed on and the variety of food items to choose from
(approximately 50 items). Apart from that, there is very little
positive that I can say. All the items are prepared to go or for
delivery. Delivery is free for orders of $7.00 or more. Hop Too's
claims to use no MSG in their food.

  We ordered B.B.Q. spare ribs ($5.95) absolutely not worth ordering,
you get 6 pathetic meatless ribs with a sauce that taste like a
combination of reduced soy and maggie sauce. We also ordered a large
Hot and Sour Soup (Enough for four people, $3.50 for large $2.05 for
small). The soup was great and can hold its own with the best. It was
consistently good each time we ordered it. Excellent blend of flavors,
just enough pepper to make it pleasantly hot. Their Chicken Lo Mein
lacked chicken and the noodles were much to greasy to be forgiven
(Reg $4.50 Large $7.25). Kung Poa chicken was all right (reg $5.95
Large $9.45). Szechuan Beef (Reg $5.80 Large $9.25). Another
disappointment, instead of chunks of moist tender beef you receive
thin sliced beef (slightly thicker than shaved steak) that was dry
and absent of flavor.

  Over all, for the price they shouldn't try to cut costs by
withholding the primary ingredient (meat). You get lots of vegetables.
Unfortunately, I believe that the food is slightly greasy, and lacks
life, but you get plenty to eat. The delivery is fast. I never had to
wait longer than 30 minutes. The delivery people were friendly and
courteous.

  When you're lingering around the home you're too sluggish to go out
let alone cook, Give Hop Too's a try, as far as quality you'll do
slightly better than ordering a pizza.

                             Chow mein
                                "Z"


Date: 02-08-90 (22:28)               Number: 149
  To: ALL                            Refer#: NONE
From: ZZZ ZZZ                         Read: (N/A)
Subj: Cigar anyone?                  Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE


                               "Z"

            "Z" DINER'S REPORT BY A DINER  FOR A DINER !
-----------------------------------------------------------------
                     Our rights up in smoke ?

  It's considered inappropriate for individuals dining in public
to raise their voices to a point that it is disturbing to others.
I don't know anyone who would approve of spraying disinfectant
around their table to exterminate stray germs. How would you handle
a parent who presumes that it is appropriate to change their
toddler's diapers in full view of surrounding patrons?

  Intrusive behaviors, because of the lack of social approval, these
events are uncommon. Yet, one irritating behavior still exists in
public restaurants, that's smoking. I'm not talking about smokers in
bars or nightclubs. I'm talking about restaurants where dining is the
primary event and drinking is an accompaniment used to enhance the
over all experience.

  Every smoker I have ever dined with, without exception will not
smoke while THEY are eating and most will extinguish a half smoked
cigarette when their food arrives. Yet without exception as soon as
they're done eating, they light up. If you're lucky, they will sit in
anguish while you finish your own meal. No sooner than you remove
the final morsel from your plate, they're exhaling their first drag.

    No matter what the smokers say about their rights to smoke, their
rights stop at the point their smoke infiltrates my dining space.
Because of their addiction for tar and nicotine, common courtesy to
others takes a back seat.  Whatever the reasons that motivate the
smoker to douse their cigarette before a meal,  patiently wait while
their dining companions finish their meals should also apply to the
faceless strangers around them.

    I am for a law that bans all smoking in pubic restaurants. Very
few restaurants have adequate non-smoking areas. Unfortunately,
the smaller restaurants choose not to have a non-smoking sections at
all. Any smoker who extinguishes their cigarette before their meal,
admits by their actions that smoking and eating do not mix. So
don't ruin everyone else's meal because you're finished with yours.

   What do the rest of you think, am I right or wrong? Let me know
how you feel about what I said. Especially the smokers who think that
if I don't like it, eat somewhere else or don't eat out at all. If
anyone knows of a restaurant that doesn't have a non-smoking section
and you think that they should, let us know, maybe collectively,
we can encourage a righting of a wrong.

Until the next time we meet.

                                  "Z"
---
 ■ Via ProEdit 3.2ßR ■ Channel 1


Date: 02-08-90 (22:28)               Number: 150
  To: KIMBERLY BRISSETTE             Refer#: NONE
From: NANCY GOLDEN                     Read: NO
Subj: Eating Out                     Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE

     Here are a few to try:  They are mostly expensive restaurants with
prices ranging from 18-30 dollars per entree.
      1. Bay Tower Room-60 State St. Boston.....very nice
      2. Hotel Meridien-Cafe Fleuri...excellent brunch and Julian's for
dinner.  I've heard their brunch is best in Boston
      3. Hotel Meridien-250 franklin St. Boston.
      4. Cafe Escadrille-rt 3A-Burlington (just off of Rt. 128)
     If you don't want anything this expensive, let me know and I will
give you a few ideas not so costly to the pocketbook.


Date: 02-09-90 (14:18)               Number: 151
  To: ZZZ ZZZ                        Refer#: 149
From: FREDERICK LONSDALE               Read: YES
Subj: Cigar anyone? Arrrgggh!!!      Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE

ZZ>
ZZ>                               "Z"
ZZ>
ZZ>            "Z" DINER'S REPORT BY A DINER  FOR A DINER !
ZZ>-----------------------------------------------------------------
ZZ>                     Our rights up in smoke ?

     It seems you want to eliminate my rights!

ZZ>    I am for a law that bans all smoking in pubic restaurants. Very
ZZ>few restaurants have adequate non-smoking areas. Unfortunately,
ZZ>the smaller restaurants choose not to have a non-smoking sections at
ZZ>all. Any smoker who extinguishes their cigarette before their meal,
ZZ>admits by their actions that smoking and eating do not mix. So
ZZ>don't ruin everyone else's meal because you're finished with yours.
ZZ>
ZZ>   What do the rest of you think, am I right or wrong? Let me know
ZZ>how you feel about what I said. Especially the smokers who think that
ZZ>if I don't like it, eat somewhere else or don't eat out at all. If
ZZ>anyone knows of a restaurant that doesn't have a non-smoking section
ZZ>and you think that they should, let us know, maybe collectively,
ZZ>we can encourage a righting of a wrong.

   If a restaurant bans smoking, I will not spend my money in
   that restaurant, no matter how good the place is. I am
   probably in the minority here. If the state or individual
   restaurants ban smoking, they have lost me as a customer.
   Period. Enough said.


   --Fred February 9, 1990 1:11 PM
---
 ■ EZ 1.24 #135 ■ Say what?


Date: 02-09-90 (14:18)               Number: 152
  To: NANCY GOLDEN                   Refer#: 150
From: FREDERICK LONSDALE               Read: NO
Subj: Eating Out                     Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE

NG>     Here are a few to try:  They are mostly expensive restaurants wi
NG>prices ranging from 18-30 dollars per entree.
NG>      1. Bay Tower Room-60 State St. Boston.....very nice
NG>      2. Hotel Meridien-Cafe Fleuri...excellent brunch and Julian's f
NG>dinner.  I've heard their brunch is best in Boston
NG>      3. Hotel Meridien-250 franklin St. Boston.

     Nancy, is Patton's still in business? in Boston? If it
     is, have you been there recently. I seem to recall it as
     a pretty good place. How about Locke-Obers?

   --Fred February 9, 1990 1:14 PM
---
 ■ EZ 1.24 #135 ■ RelayNet (tm) Online Services Conference Host


Date: 02-09-90 (14:29)               Number: 153
  To: FREDERICK LONSDALE             Refer#: 151
From: ZZZ ZZZ                          Read: YES
Subj: ?                              Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE

Fred, are you a smoker? "Z"


Date: 02-09-90 (22:54)               Number: 156
  To: ZZZ ZZZ                        Refer#: 153
From: FREDERICK LONSDALE               Read: YES
Subj: ?                              Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE

ZZ>Fred, are you a smoker? "Z"

    Guess? ;-)


  --Fred, 10:24 PM  February 9, 1990
---
 ■ EZ 1.24 #135 ■ RelayNet (tm) ONLINE Services Conference Host


Date: 02-10-90 (04:08)               Number: 157
  To: FREDERICK LONSDALE             Refer#: 151
From: FRED HAPGOOD                     Read: YES
Subj: Cigar anyone? Arrrgggh!!!      Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE



Though not a smoker myself, I never see a person smoking without
feeling a surge of joy that somebody out there is speeeting in
the face of the barbarian puritans.

---
 ■ EZ 1.26 ■ South End, Boston


Date: 02-10-90 (13:24)               Number: 160
  To: FRED HAPGOOD                   Refer#: 157
From: ZZZ ZZZ                          Read: YES
Subj: UNSURE                         Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE

Fred L,
  Please pardon my simpleness, but I am unsure of the gist of your
point. Is it your opinion that smokers be allowed to smoke in public
dining area without restrictions. If so, and being your a non-smoker,
please detail your position jut a bit further.
                            Thanks "Z"


Date: 02-10-90 (16:50)               Number: 161
  To: FRED HAPGOOD                   Refer#: 157
From: FREDERICK LONSDALE               Read: YES (Has Replies)
Subj: Cigar anyone? Arrrgggh!!!      Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE

FH>Though not a smoker myself, I never see a person smoking without
FH>feeling a surge of joy that somebody out there is speeeting in
FH>the face of the barbarian puritans.

   You say it much better than I. Our founding fathers set
   up a system of checks and balances to prevent the
   tyranny of the majority and to protect individual
   liberties. It amazes me to no end that such a liberal
   part of the country is willing to destroy personal
   freedom.

   I guess it dates back to the Salem Witch trials. Be a
   little bit different from others and they burn you at
   the stake.... or burn your steak... whatever. ;-)

  --Fred, 4:01 PM  February 10, 1990
---
 ■ EZ 1.24 #135 ■ RelayNet (tm) ONLINE Services Conference Host


Date: 02-10-90 (20:38)               Number: 162
  To: FREDERICK LONSDALE             Refer#: 161
From: SEAN BENWARD                     Read: YES
Subj: NO CIGAR, ANYONE ARRRGGH!      Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE




   Your response is typical, as smokers are typical. Aside from your
problem with liberals, justify, why your rights to smoke outweigh my
rights to a smoke free environment. You must admit that smoking is
intrusive. Are you in favor of people spraying Raid in the air to kill
flies while you're eating? They have rights, Right. How about peoples'
right to spray a little bit of ammonia around because they have an
obsession with germs? Did you know that smoke inhibits your ability to
properly taste? Do you have a problem with the restrictions that
hospitals impose against smoking?  Do you feel that your right to smoke
is more important than a patient's right to recover? Do you believe that
smoking is dangerous to your health? I have no problem with your right
to kill yourself, But..  being that it is proven that secondary smoke is
not so beneficial to my health then I have a problem with your right to
poison me.  My hat off to "Z", Speeting factless rhetoric is what
smokers are best at. It doesn't look like smokers are going to take the
initiative to abstain from their toxic habit  while in public places.
Unfortunately, it is going to take laws to protect the non-smokers.
What is at stake? "Steak", Rare, the way I like mine cooked. Pink on the
inside. The same color I want my lungs to stay.


Date: 02-10-90 (22:31)               Number: 163
  To: SEAN BENWARD                   Refer#: 162
From: FREDERICK LONSDALE               Read: NO
Subj: NO CIGAR, ANYONE ARRRGGH!      Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE

SB>   Your response is typical, as smokers are typical. Aside from your
SB>problem with liberals, justify, why your rights to smoke outweigh my

   I have no problems with [L]iberals. Matter of fact, I am a
   liberal. I am probably the *most* liberal person in the
   Western Hemisphere.

SB>rights to a smoke free environment. You must admit that smoking is
SB>intrusive. Are you in favor of people spraying Raid in the air to kil

   You have a perfect right to a smoke free environment. All I
   said is that *I* will not patronize a restaurant that does
   not make adequate provisions for smokers. I assume you only
   patronize restaurants that ban smoking. There are *plenty*.
   I was the one who first asked "Z" to include notices about
   how a restaurant accomodates smokers. "Z", I believe, assumed
   that I was a non-smoker when the reverse is actually true.
   That, I believe, says something about the *war* against
   law abiding smokers.

SB>flies while you're eating? They have rights, Right. How about peoples
SB>right to spray a little bit of ammonia around because they have an
SB>obsession with germs? Did you know that smoke inhibits your ability t
SB>properly taste? Do you have a problem with the restrictions that

   You would have made a good witness at a Salem Witch trial.

SB>hospitals impose against smoking?  Do you feel that your right to smo
SB>is more important than a patient's right to recover? Do you believe t
SB>smoking is dangerous to your health? I have no problem with your righ

   Who said anything about hospitals?

SB>poison me.  My hat off to "Z", Speeting factless rhetoric is what
SB>smokers are best at. It doesn't look like smokers are going to take t
SB>initiative to abstain from their toxic habit  while in public places.

   I should abstain? I *avoid* non-smoking situations. If
   smoking is not allowed, and I want a smoke, I leave.

SB>Unfortunately, it is going to take laws to protect the non-smokers.

   There are already laws to protect you. I am sure more laws
   will be passed restricting smokers. I believe what you want
   is total abolition. They tried that with liquor. They try
   to outlaw a lot of things... abortion... spitting... and
   more. Tyranny!
---
 ■ EZ 1.24 #135 ■ RelayNet (tm) ONLINE Services Conference Host


Date: 02-11-90 (01:02)               Number: 164
  To: ZZZ ZZZ                        Refer#: 160
From: FRED HAPGOOD                     Read: YES
Subj: UNSURE                         Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE



> Please pardon my simpleness, but I am unsure of the gist of your
> point.

My point don't got no gist.  It's just that I hate living in a
society dedicated to planetary concern, lo-fat food, lite beer,
safe sex, anti-furrism, creating incentives for saving,
anti-smoking, anti-drinking, not fetishizing body parts ...  I
hate this plague of placid nurturing, and cheer whenever I see
somebody strong enough to blow smoke in its face.
---
 ■ EZ 1.26 ■ South End, Boston


Date: 02-11-90 (14:25)               Number: 165
  To: FREDERICK LONSDALE             Refer#: 161
From: KAREN ROCKOW                     Read: YES
Subj: Cigar anyone? Arrrgggh!!!      Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE

>   You say it much better than I. Our founding fathers set
>   up a system of checks and balances to prevent the
>   tyranny of the majority and to protect individual
>   liberties. It amazes me to no end that such a liberal
>   part of the country is willing to destroy personal
>   freedom.
Gee, Fred, I never realized that freedom to blow smoke in someone else's
face was right up there with freedom of the press.
---
 ■ Via ProDoor 3.2ßR ■ Channel 1


Date: 02-11-90 (21:07)               Number: 166
  To: KAREN ROCKOW                   Refer#: 165
From: FREDERICK LONSDALE               Read: YES
Subj: Cigar anyone? Arrrgggh!!!      Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE

KR>Gee, Fred, I never realized that freedom to blow smoke in someone els
KR>face was right up there with freedom of the press.

   Karen,

       I do not blow smoke in people's faces. I do all in
   my power to avoid smoking near people who do not smoke.

   [By near, I mean in the same room or building or city,
    not at the next table. I have not been to Cambridge
    for years except to drive thru with the windows closed.]

   However, I draw the line when others try to force me to
   adopt their particular lifestyle. I am not about to
   patronize a restaurant that does not accomodate me. If I
   am paying, they do it my way! If they can get along without
   my business, that suits me fine.


  --Fred, 8:48 PM  February 11, 1990
---
 ■ EZ 1.24 #135 ■ RelayNet (tm) ONLINE Services Conference Host


Date: 02-11-90 (22:56)               Number: 167
  To: FREDERICK LONSDALE             Refer#: 166
From: GORDON HAFF                      Read: YES
Subj: Cigar anyone? Arrrgggh!!!      Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE

Fred,

I'm with you on this one even though I'm not a smoker.  Most people have
lots of habits which annoy me (and no doubt I have lots which annoy
them).  This country has always had a certain puritanical urge just
below the surface which has been coming closer and closer to bursting
out recently.

There are a few people who by reason of allergies or asthma or whatnot
are legitimately very sensitive to cigarette smoke.  I consider the
hypersentitivity shown by many these days though to me more of a fad
than anything else.

I would point to a similar discussion about alcohol on this board a few
months back.  I may have been misreading it, but the general gist of a
few people's comments seemed to be that if you drank more than they did
(a few times a month) you were a borderline alcoholic.

In my experience, Europeans seem to handle issues of this sort in a much
more balanced manner.  There are many additional pieces of evidence I
could throw out -- such as the cutting out of any nudity on network TV
and airline flights.

FLAME Off.  Sorry if I've offended anyone, but this sort of thing really
rubs me the wrong way.

                    ══ Gordon ══
---
 ■ DeLuxe 1.11ß17 #838  If there isn't a law, there will be.


Date: 02-12-90 (00:18)               Number: 168
  To: ZZZ ZZZ                        Refer#: 136
From: BETSY SCHWARTZ                   Read: YES
Subj: THAT CUP OF COFFEE..TO GO      Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE

Ahhhh, a review close to my heart!
Really enjoyed it, ZZZ, thanks!

I live near Mass Ave in Cambridge and will definitly check out
that 7-11! I;ve been goign to the Sage's Jr on Broadway&Ellery which is
closest to my house but erratic in quality (plus they put in the milk
themselves and often use too much!)
---
 ■ EZ-Reader 1.14 ■ Look, Ma , a tagline!


Date: 02-12-90 (13:58)               Number: 169
  To: GORDON HAFF                    Refer#: 167
From: FREDERICK LONSDALE               Read: YES
Subj: Cigar anyone? Arrrgggh!!!      Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE

GH>I'm with you on this one even though I'm not a smoker.  Most people h
GH>lots of habits which annoy me (and no doubt I have lots which annoy
GH>them).  This country has always had a certain puritanical urge just
GH>below the surface which has been coming closer and closer to bursting
GH>out recently.

     Thank you for your support. You mentioned asthma. This is
     a deadly disease which is on the rise. Even though it can
     be managed, it leads to heart enlargement. Eventually the
     the victim will experience cardiac arrest. I would never
     put persons with asthma or other problems in jeopardy.


   --Fred February 12, 1990 12:54 PM
---
 ■ EZ 1.24 #135 ■ Say what?


Date: 02-12-90 (17:13)               Number: 170
  To: ZZZ ZZZ                       Refer#: 149
From: TOM REVAY                        Read: NO
Subj: Cigar anyone?                  Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE

I enjoyed your article about smoking.  I, too, don't like the stuff,
having never smoked myself, and I hate eating with smoke in the air.
One line stands out, however:

ZZ>    I am for a law that bans all smoking in pubic restaurants.

ABSOLUTELY!  Why, it might singe some VERY tender areas! 8-)

(By the way, you gonna review one of these "pubic" restaurants
anytime soon?  With anybody I know? 8-))

                                 ---

On a more serous note:  who is familar with the Massachusetts
restaurant smoking law?  I had understood that restaurants which
serve more than 75 patrons were required to have a non-smoking area,
but the Champions Sports Bar in the Mariott Hotel in Copley Place
tells me that they're somehow "exempt."  Can this be true?  Could it
be because they call themselves a "bar"?  Whether or not they do,
they serve a full menu, substantial enough that they must have a
license to serve meals, and thus I'd expect them to be bound by
whatever requirements are imposed upon restaurants in this State.
...................Tom
─────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────
    Tag lines: sound bites for the eyes.
─────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────
---
 ■ DeLuxe 1.11ß18 #2345


Date: 02-14-90 (02:02)               Number: 171
  To: RICHARD CARREIRO               Refer#: 143
From: BETSY SCHWARTZ                   Read: YES
Subj: The Wizard of Speed And T      Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE

RC>Hi.  Does anyone know which, if any, video stores have copied of
RC>Mike Jittlov's _The Wizard of Speed and Time_ available for rental?
RC>It was released on videotape on 2/3/90.
     I saw that tonight listed at th e Medord Super Stop'n'Shop on Rte
16, dunno if its IN.
    Now, can you tell me anyplace which has it for sale???
    Great movie!!! Saw it last year at the SOmerville(Sniff! hats off!
RIP Somerville, sob!) Was forcibly prevented from sitting through it
twice by my so-called friends.
---
 ■ EZ-Reader 1.14 ■ Lady be good, do what you should,


Date: 02-14-90 (02:02)               Number: 172
  To: ZZZ ZZZ                       Refer#: 149
From: BETSY SCHWARTZ                   Read: NO
Subj: Cigar anyone?                  Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE

I think Cambridge REQUIRES a smoking section. I'm an on-again-off-again
smoker (meaning trying to STAY quit) so I can see both sides. It is hard
to get upset at someone at anotehr table who is smoking , sitting under
a sign which says "smoking permitted here."
   Restauranteurs know that if they baneed smoking they would lose some
business from customers lingering over desserts, drinks, and cigarettes.
I bet smokers who can't smoke make more noise to management than non-
smokers who would prefer a smoke-free restaurant.
   Ideally the smoking and non-smoking sections would be sealed off by
an impenetrable barrier...
---
 ■ EZ-Reader 1.14 ■ Theres more than one answer to the questions


Date: 02-14-90 (02:02)               Number: 173
  To: FREDERICK LONSDALE             Refer#: 163
From: BETSY SCHWARTZ                   Read: YES (Has Replies)
Subj: NO CIGAR, ANYONE ARRRGGH!      Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE

I must say, I prefer to work in a non-smoking office (the one I work in
now has a smoking lounge, which is a great set-up) I agree with you and
Fred though that we can go overboard by trying to do it all through
legislation!
  If the restaurants in this city divideed themselves into non-smoking,
all-smoking, and half-smoking, I don't think anyone'd be hurt, as long
as it was voluntary. You are quite right that businesses should be able
to cater to their customers! (airlines, I suspect, may be another issue
because of the possible safety issues...I don;t know enough about them
to judge)
---
 ■ EZ-Reader 1.14 ■ The less I seek my source for some definitive


Date: 02-14-90 (21:32)               Number: 174
  To: BETSY SCHWARTZ                 Refer#: 173
From: FREDERICK LONSDALE               Read: YES
Subj: NO CIGAR, ANYONE ARRRGGH!      Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE

BS>now has a smoking lounge, which is a great set-up) I agree with you a
BS>Fred though that we can go overboard by trying to do it all through
BS>legislation!

    Thank you for your support.


  --Fred, 9:10 PM  February 14, 1990
---
 ■ EZ 1.24 #135 ■ RelayNet (tm) ONLINE Services Conference Host


Date: 02-15-90 (10:16)               Number: 175
  To: BETSY SCHWARTZ                 Refer#: 173
From: KAREN ROCKOW                     Read: YES
Subj: NO CIGAR, ANYONE ARRRGGH!      Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE

I've become used to a smoke-free environment. My parents smoked when I
was a kid, but in the past few years, I've become very sensitive to
smoke (I don't even like wood fires much), and find that I usually start
to cough when someone smokes a cigarette. Pipe smoke I can deal with;
cigars are another story.
The problem with non-smoking sections in restaurants is that they're
poorly conceived. I've seen ones that ran around the periphery of the
restaurant; someone at the next table might be smoking with impunity. I
wish taht restaurants would put those smoke-eating gadgets around at
smoking tables. As someone else here said, I'm completely in support of
your right to kill yourself if you wish, but please don't take me with
you!
---
 ■ Via ProDoor 3.2ßR ■ Channel 1 (tm)


Date: 02-15-90 (19:26)               Number: 176
  To: TOM REVAY                      Refer#: 170
From: ZZZ ZZZ                          Read: YES
Subj: ABMASS STATE LAW           Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE

                               "Z"

            "Z" DINER'S REPORT BY A DINER  FOR A DINER !
-----------------------------------------------------------------
Tom,
    The Mass State law as it is written states" No person shall
smoke in any restaurant with a seating capacity of seventy-five or
more persons, except in an area which has been specifically
designated as a smoking area.  In such case, smoking may be permitted
in an areas or areas that have been specifically designated by notice
or sign, only if nonsmoking areas of sufficient size and capacity are
available to accommodate nonsmokers. Smoking and nonsmoking areas in
any restaurant need not be separated by walls, partitions or other
physical barriers; provided, however,that nonsmoking areas in any part
of a restaurant, as provided herein shall be no less than two hundred
square feet of floor space."
    Local communities have the right to amend this legislation to
be more stringent than the State Law, which 60 communities have done
already.
    The question then arises, what is a restaurant? I called the City
Clerk's Office of Boston.  Their reply was, the difference between a
restaurant or CV (Common Victualler) license and a tavern license was
a restaurant MUST serve food and can stay open 7 days a week. A tavern
license may or may not serve food and can only stay open 6 days a week
(I assume they must close Sundays). When I asked about what the
relationship was in regards to the Mass Smoking Law, they where
unable to help any further.  Next I called Secretary Connolly's
Office of Citizen Information. They were able to read the law. But
would not go as far to interpret the meaning of what a restaurant was,
or say if this law would apply to taverns. They did refer me to the
State Dept of Public Health: Non-Smoking and Public Health. I spoke
to Martha who told me that if food service was incidental to an
establishment; that people's purpose for going there is not to eat
(i.e. bar) then said establishment would be exempt from the law.
Over all, the interpretation that I perceived was, a public
(not private) establishment that has a seating capacity of 75 or more
and serves a menu where the food is prepared on the premises and opens
7 days a week. They are responsible to follow the laws set forth by
the State. She also told me that if you feel that a restaurant is in
violation of the non-smoking ordinance, you can  write to:

Thomas Coffill
Principal Health Inspector
Inspection Services Department
1010 Mass Ave
5th floor
Boston, Mass. 02118
or call (617)-727-0732

  I have not been able to visit Champions Sports Bar at the time I
wrote this. I will, this week. If the above criteria is not met and
they are not exempt from the smoking laws, I will speak to the manager.
If I do not get any satisfaction (which I doubt) I will write and call
Thomas Coffill.
   Please keep me and everyone else informed if you decide to follow
through. I will also be updating everyone in regards to any pertinent
information.
                Chow Mein  "Z"

P.S. Thank you for pointing out my spelling error so genitally. "Z"


Date: 02-15-90 (19:52)               Number: 178
  To: ALL                            Refer#: NONE
From: ZZZ ZZZ                          Read: (N/A)
Subj: Brunch at Cladagh              Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE

                              "Z"

              "Z" DINER'S REPORT BY A DINER, FOR A DINER!

THE CLADDAGH         LIMITED NON-SMOKING SECTION.      Cash, Amex,
     355 Columbus Ave.                                      Mastercard &

Boston, Ma. 02116                                      Visa accepted.
                               Full Liquor license
        Not fully accessible for the physically impaired.
------------------------------------------------------------------

  The Claddagh is located on the corner of Columbus and Dartmouth
Street. It's a short walk from Copley T stop.

  I went to the Claddagh after seeing an advertisement for their
$6.95 All You Can Eat Sunday Brunch. I am always willing to gamble
on a bargain.

  When I arrived (about 2:00 pm) I wasn't sure what to envision.
When I left I was baffled. I can only compare what I felt to dreams
I've had, where two places are combined into one. In this case it was
three places combined into one. I walk in the door, the first thing
I notice is a bar. I thought I was in a pub environment (dreary).
I turn and look to the opposite way, I see what seemed to be a pretty
upscale dining room. Then I was brought downstairs to where the brunch
was being offered. I got the feeling of being in a remodeled basement
of someone's house. Low ceilings and every 15 feet or so the carpet
would alternate between red and green.

   The brunch cost $6.95. It offered a Steamship round, no big deal.
Scrambled eggs that were too watery. Cajun chicken, it was Chicken
Cacciatore with kidney beans. Seafood Newburg, I could not identify
this without asking. My first impression was Tuna Casserole. Beef Hash,
nothing to write home about. Sausage and Bacon, tasted like Sausage
and Bacon, but cold. Assorted salads, too many mayonnaise-based salads
for my liking. Clam of Seafood Chowder, it was good but could have
used less salt.  Assorted breads, (none of the servers were able to
identify any of the breads I was eating) pastries and desserts. All
the orange juice you can drink, and coffee. The coffee was charged
separately, not included in the $6.95 charge. The service was poor,
even for a brunch.

   The brunch was setup downstairs. A big negative, if you are in a
wheel chair or have difficulty walking. The basement does not offer
seating for non-smokers and I don't think that the ventilation would
be adequate enough if it did.  You are able to eat upstairs where they
do have a non-smoking section. Unless you have a massive group of
people that you are forced to bring out to eat, I don't believe that
the brunch Claddagh offers is worth it. Better quality in cafeterias.

                          Chow Mein ! "Z"
---
 ■ Via ProEdit 3.2ßR ■ Channel 1 (tm)


Date: 02-15-90 (19:53)               Number: 179
  To: ALL                            Refer#: NONE
From: ZZZ ZZZ                          Read: (N/A)
Subj: Culinary Quiz number 2         Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE


                      "Z" CULINARY TERMS
                 (NOT CULINARY USER FRIENDLY)
  Can you guess or do you know which culinary definition is correct.
Only one of the four options is a true definition. The other options
are blatant lies. The answers next week. Have fun!!!
-----------------------------------------------------------------

1) Why does Aluminum Foil have a shiny side and a dull side?

  a) No particular reason, just a result of the manufacturing
     process.

  b) The shiny side to heat and the dull side to keep food cold or
     frozen. When you want food hot, you wrap food with shiny side
     facing food to reflect heat back into the food. You do the
     opposite with cold so as to reflect heat away from food.

 c) Aluminum Foil isn't really made from Aluminum. In fact Aluminum
    foil should be called Bauxite Foil. Bauxite is a whitish metal
    used in manufacturing what we call Aluminum Foil. The reason for
    the different shades is because of the softness of the metal.
    To protect the metal from cracking, a chemical is added (lacimehc)
    that dulls one side. This helps to identify the side that has been
    through the rollers, so as not to be rolled again and cause
    cracking.

 d) The two tones are caused by the chemical Lacimehc. Lacimehc is
    added to give additional strength and to slow down the decay of
    the foil when against acidic foods.


2) Chou:
 a) Chou, in French translation means cabbage. Choux is the french
    plural of chou. Choux pastry is usually eaten cold. Chocolate
    Eclairs and cream puffs are examples of how chou pastry is used.

 b) Chou, Chow, Ciao, Choux, Chinese, American, Italian and French
    slang for food. Example: Let's get some chow.

 c) A baking term used when filling pastries. Example: Eclairs are
    Chou (stuffed or filled) with cream. Jelly donuts are Chou (filled)
    with jelly.

 d) Sogn Chou, A Chinese immigrant chef who at the end of the 19th
    century invented Chop Suey for his American customers.


3) Egyptian Lotus:
 a) A winged insect, related to the grasshopper, considered a
    delicacy throughout N. Africa and  Asia. Always eaten alive.

 b) An edible water lily found in Egypt and Asia. The leaves and
    root may be eaten as a vegetable, while the pod-like fruit
    contains kernels which are almond like in flavor.

 c) A ceremonious seating position that Hindu monks use while eating
    Bshioma (tofu) prior to evening prayer service. A.K.A. Mother
    India Lotus.

 d) A Chinese pastry served during Dim Sum or celebrations. Known to
    bring good luck during courting.

4) Eierkuckas:
 a) Nothing, I made this word up. (Ha Ha!)

 b) Also known as Ethiopian Yirgacheffe, A highly acidic, full
    bodied coffee distinguished by it's rose like bouquet.

 c) Alsatian pancakes which are very substantial, served either sweet
    or savory. They are very rich but very good.

 d) A Greek olive variety, found on the northern cost of Greece in
    Kastoria.

5) Humming Ale:
 a) A strong beer, Stingo. Both humming and stingo are figurative
    words deriving from the effect expected, alleged or actual of
    the beer drinker.

 b) First used as an elixir in the 1300's , Humming Ail
   (What ails you) became Humming Ale in the 1600's along with the
           transformation of the word Ail (pain or agony) to Ale
   (liquor made from malt.) Ingredients: Fermented honey, molasses,
   malt.

 c) A sweet liquid used in Australia to trap humming birds. The
    feathers were used ceremoniously usually weddings and the meat
    cooked similar to quail or squab.


 d) Also known as Ginger Beer or Ginger Ale  a slightly alcoholic
    beverage. Popular in Britain, made from ginger, sugar, cream of
    tartar.
---
 ■ Via ProEdit 3.2ßR ■ Channel 1 (tm)


Date: 02-20-90 (15:50)               Number: 188
  To: ZZZ ZZZ                        Refer#: 176
From: TOM REVAY                        Read: YES
Subj: ABMASS STATE LAW           Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE

ZZ>Tom,
ZZ>    The Mass State law as it is written states "No person shall
ZZ>[...]

Thanks for your information.  I'll be interested to hear what you
find at _Champions_.

One more thing, Mr. ZZZ -- you've really brought some life to this
message area (Boston).  You're doing a great job, sez me.  Keep it
up! 8-)

ZZ>P.S. Thank you for pointing out my spelling error so genitally. "Z"

Yer welcome! 8-)
...................Tom
─────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────
    I hate department-store door handles designed for PULLING, when
    they want you to PUSH.
─────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────
---
 ■ DeLuxe 1.11ß18 #2345


Date: 02-22-90 (12:06)               Number: 190
  To: ALL                            Refer#: NONE
From: KEVIN DAVIS                      Read: (N/A)
Subj: Jamaica Plain eats             Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE

Does anyone know of any decent places to eat in Jamaica Plain? My friend
just set up an office out there and she and I will be spending a lot of
time out that way. I'm interested in any input here. The only place
we've
tried is Center Street Cafe. It is an adorable little place out near
Forest
Hills that has fantastic food (surprisingly imaginative, like omelettes
stuffed with cheese and vegetarian chili served with homemade salsa and
cheese biscuits) at great prices. We're looking for more of the same and
anything else. Thanks all.
                          Kevin


---
 ■ Via ProDoor 3.2ßR ■ Channel 1 (tm)


Date: 02-22-90 (21:52)               Number: 193
  To: ALL                            Refer#: NONE
From: ZZZ ZZZ                          Read: (N/A)
Subj: New Korea Restaurant           Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE

                             "Z"

              "Z"DINER'S REPORT BY A DINER, FOR A DINER!

NEW KOREA RESTAURANT    Open everyday 12-10:00 pm        Cash, Amex,
     1281 Cambridge St.           [phone]         Mastercard &
    Cambridge, Mass.             [phone]         Visa accepted.
      (Inman Square)
                        No Smoking Section
                        Full Liquor License
              Fully accessible for the physically impaired.
          (Bathrooms may cause problem because they are narrow)
------------------------------------------------------------------

  Whether we're motivated socially or morally, we constantly shape,
form, create, and validate our values. I occasionally  have what I
call a value crisis. What it usually means is, that I have to admit
that I was wrong.  On the other side of the coin, I occasionally have
a value rejuvenation. I consider myself a person who believes/demands
that no matter how much, or little I spend I expect at minimum...
sincere and friendly, knowledgeable service. It doesn't matter if
it is a person pumping gas or a waiter in a five star restaurant.
When I leave, if I don't get what I feel is minimum service, that
establishment doesn't get my business.

  I was starting to wonder if maybe my service requirements were too
stringent, when low and behold, I had the pleasure of a super charged
revitalization in the New Korea Restaurant at Inman Square, Cambridge.

  Inman Square in my opinion is a heaven for the adventuresome diner;
your choice: Haitian, Chinese, Indian, or Korean Cuisine, a sub shop
and I must not forget to mention The East Coast Grill all on the same
block. With the exception of the E.C. Grill, the prices are not too
bad either.

   We arrived at The New Korea Restaurant around 5:15 pm. When we
entered the restaurant I wondered if maybe it was a Chinese restaurant
pretending to be Korean.  My apprehension was immediately quelled upon
receiving my menu. The New Korea's menu is easy to read and organized.
I would wish that they give better descriptions of each item. But, not
to worry, the staff is extremely knowledgeable and couldn't be happier
to answer any and all of your questions. For appetizers we had Mandoo
Tui Gim (Fried Dumplings) 6 for $5.90. They look a lot like Chinese
fried dumplings, but the quality is much better. Instead of just a
meat stuffing you get a nice balance of vegetable and beef, wrap in
a pastry that is not chewy or soggy (Chinese dumplings can be too
chewy for my liking). It is lightly fried with a little hint of
crispiness and no residual grease.  For Entrées we had Gal Bee Gui
(marinated b.b.q beef short ribs) $13.90  You get about 11 oz of the
tastiest short ribs, lean, marinated, tender, and sizzling when they
arrive. They come taken off the bone, sliced thin, thickness of two
quarters stacked on top of each other. Our other entrée was Kan Fung
Ki  $11.90. This Item is described on the menu as "Beef or Chicken
served in a zesty sauce". I would not have ordered it from looking
on the menu. This is an example where the lack of a description did
an injustice to an entrée. If it had not been for the Chef and his
recommendation we would have passed up what turned out to be an
excellent choice. I would describe it as a dish that offers a choice
of thinly sliced beef or chicken (We ordered chicken) dipped in a
light egg batter then cooked in a spicy red pepper sauce made from
red chili pepper, paprika, garlic and honey. When it is served the
chicken is moist and tender and hot, not dried out and above all it
was superb. All the entrées are served with a bottomless bowl of rice,
a healthy portion of Homemade Kim Chi (spicy pickled cabbage) if you
are a fan of Kim Chi, ask if they have any of their special reserve
in the back (not for the timid or weak). Also served as condiments
are spinach, sprouts,and marinated dicon radish and cucumber. All
make an excellent accompaniment to the entrées.

  What excites me the most about New Korea besides the food is that
the people who run New Korea care about their guest. From the cup of
tea that is offered as soon as you sit down, the bottomless bowl of
rice, or the refills on any of the condiments. At the end of your
meal, you get an orange decoratively sliced. If this doesn't satisfy
you, the service will. The staff is friendly to the point where you
wish they could sit and join you. They are proficient about every
menu item. I'm sure that they must help in the kitchen because their
descriptions are detailed. As guests walk in, our waitperson (Marion)
would greet most by their first names and the guests would respond
with the same warmth as if it were a long time friend. I have never
been in a restaurant where I felt more at home. I believe that  you
will share my sentiment. Give it a try.

                               "Z"


Date: 02-22-90 (21:58)               Number: 194
  To: ALL                            Refer#: NONE
From: ZZZ ZZZ                          Read: (N/A)
Subj: Culinary Quiz 2 Answers        Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE

                      "Z" CULINARY TERMS
                  (NOT CULINARY USER FRIENDLY)
                      "Z" Quiz 2 Answers
                    1-A, 2-A, 3-B, 4-C, 5-A,
---
 ■ Via ProEdit 3.2ßR ■ Channel 1 (tm)


Date: 02-23-90 (16:00)               Number: 198
  To: KEVIN DAVIS                    Refer#: 190
From: TOM REVAY                        Read: YES
Subj: Jamaica Plain eats             Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE

KD>Does anyone know of any decent places to eat in Jamaica Plain? My
KD>friend just set up an office out there and she and I will be spending
KD>a lot of time out that way. I'm interested in any input here. The
KD>only place we've tried is Center Street Cafe. It is an adorable
KD>little place out near Forest Hills that has fantastic food

----------------------------------------------------------------------
     A brief, hackneyed walk down Centre Street's Restaurant Row
                        (by a JayPee Resident)

Acapulco Mexican Restaurant, near the corner of South Huntington and
Centre:  mushy beans, so-so salsa, not especially good.

Triple D's, corner of S. Huntington & Centre:  decent pizza, good
soups, primo onion rings.  Stay away from the salads, they don't give
enough consideration to getting good veggies.

Centre Street Cafe, near Pond Street and Centre:  just as you say --
nice omlettes, excellent vegetarian chili, good coffee, cornbread,
and desserts.  In the evening, however, the prices go up surprisingly
high.  Stick with lunches and weekend brunches, and you'll do fine.

Galway House, near Centre and Green Street:  an Irish bar with food
as Irish as spaghetti and meatballs.  Seriously -- they serve so-so
Italian.  Lots of food for the price, but the lasagna tends to be
mushy and they use too much sauce.

Today's Bread Cafe, near Centre and Green Street:  salads,
sandwiches, croissants, muffins, all excellent quality.
Unfortunately, they're too trendy for their own good -- you'll pay
$4.00+ for a cheese sandwich here, and small muffins are $.95.  They
do sell 'em, though, because there's constantly a line across the
place.  Their staff seems an uninterested bunch, like so many other
counter-type places ... they don't always seem particularly attentive
to their customers, and I get the feeling they'd rather a lot of
people there just go home.  Who says we're developing a "service"
based economy?

Same Old Place Pizza, across Centre from Today's Bread:  I used to
eat here a lot.  Got tired of it.  Doyle's has better pizza.

Five Seasons, near Centre and Green Street:  macrobiotic,
semi-vegetarian.  Excellent quality food, but a tad overpriced.  At
one time, their vegetarian meal of beans, rice, vegetables, a sea
vegetable, soup, and herb tea, was a bargain at only about $4.00. Now
it weighs in at over $7.00, too much in my opinion.  Still, I eat
there for a change of pace.  Try their tempeh dishes.  Their
vegetarian chef-like salad is probably the biggest-dish-for-the-buck
value on the menu.  A couple months ago, posters advertising the
place as a luncheon spot appeared around JP, with coupons attached for
luncheon discounts.  Expect to wait in line in the evenings,
especially on weekends.  A WARNING:  AVOID THE COFFEE AT ALL COSTS!
Apparently, they make a single pot in the morning, sell very little,
and within an hour it's bitter enough to peel paint!  A HORROR!

The Irish bar across from the Galway House, forget its name:  this
place is pretty good for lunches.  I had the best egg salad plate
ever in this place.  Reasonably priced.

Dunkin Donuts, near South Street and Centre:  best cuppajava in JP.

FINALLY -- I've already written about Doyle's, on Washington Street.
To walk there from Centre, hoof it down Green Street away from the
Pond, and turn right after the Green Street Orange Line T station.
Walk along the Orange Line to Williams Street, where the JP High
sits, and Doyle's is on your left, at the corner of Williams and
Washington.  This place is really where you wanna go.  Terrific
pizza, decent salads (the spinich salad w/ bleu cheese is a
baaah-gan), great mozzarella sticks and onion rings, and all very
reasonably priced.  Don't miss this place.

----------------------------------------------------------------------

That should cover it.  If I'm wrong about any of these, contact my
attorneys, Bear and Bear ....
...................Tom
─────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────
    Chinese food has a will of its own.
        -- Sparrow (New York poet)
─────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────
---
 ■ DeLuxe 1.11ß18 #2345


Date: 03-01-90 (21:51)               Number: 204
  To: ALL                            Refer#: NONE
From: ZZZ ZZZ                          Read: (N/A)
Subj: Scotch n'Sirloin Review        Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE

                           "Z"

         "Z" DINER'S REPORT BY A DINER, FOR A DINER !


 Scotch 'N Sirloin          Hours can vary depending on   Cash,Amex
 77 North Washington St     sporting events, so call:
                                                           MC/VISA
 Boston, Mass 02144         [phone]                Accepted.

--------------------------------------------------------------------

     Scotch & Sirloin used to be one of my favorites. At this point,
 I ask myself why? S & S is on the overpriced border. Entree's come
 with a medium sized salad bar that lacks creativity and fresh
 produce. Vegetables, potatoes and rice are extra ($3.50 for veg and
 $1.50 for rice or potatoe). They offer menus on a lunch box (cute)
 and exhibit a wonderful view. S & S is located in a redesigned old
 factory located in the North End.  The restaurant itself has
 excellent character.

     For appetizers I had oysters that were slightly bigger than
quarters (6 for $6.50) my dining guests had sauteed mushroom caps
(about 12 small to med sized caps $3.50) The oysters were o.k. but
rinsed under water (probably to remove any shell pieces left from
the shucker) which washed away any flavor. The mushroom caps were
also O.K.    For entrees we had lobster and teriyaki combo.
(1 1/2 lbs lobster and 6-7 oz marinated sirloin $26.95) Petite
Teriyaki sirloin( 6-7oz marinated sirloin $12.75). and Texas bbq
beef ribs ( 5 ribs, meaty, the bbq sauce tasted like it came from a
jar $13.95) We all agreed that the teriyaki was salty for our liking.
One note to mention, If you are a prime rib lover (I am), my experiences
have been all but positive. I ask for rare I'm told that I should have
arrived earlier (this was at 7:00) then when a guest of mine wanted it
well done it took two tries to get it right. Of course by then everyone
else had finished their meal. One other problem that I experience with
their prime ribs is that they just run out.

     Over all S & S has a wonderful location with a view of Boston
Garden and if your lucky a visit from a  Boston Celtic or two. The club,
City Lights is attached. There's no cover charge if you have dinner.
S & S offers valet parking otherwise you're on your own. S & S has the
ability to be a great place. I feel that they are confused, they offer
the worst of two worlds: the prices and menu style (if you ignore the
lunch box) of a high price establishment and, the atmosphere of a
sports bar. If they were to concentrate on one style or the other,
S & S would offer a dining experience to remember...



Date: 03-02-90 (22:40)               Number: 206
  To: ZZZ ZZZ                        Refer#: 204
From: FREDERICK LONSDALE               Read: YES (Has Replies)
Subj: King & I                       Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE

ZZ>                           "Z"

  Whoever you are,

        I had a late lunch, this afternoon at the King & I
  at 145 Charles Street in Boston. It was pretty good. The
  prices were reasonable. $5.75 for the Scallop Supreme.
  They specialize in Thai Cuisine. They also have a 259
  Newbury Street location.

        The bill for three with a full caraffe of Chablis
  and Coffee was $27.00 including tax and a 15% tip.

        You might give it a try for a review here. If you
  already did, I must have missed it!

  --Fred, 9:17 PM  March 2, 1990
---
 ■ EZ 1.24 #135 ■ RelayNet (tm) ONLINE Services Conference Host


Date: 03-03-90 (22:15)               Number: 207
  To: FREDERICK LONSDALE             Refer#: 206
From: ZZZ ZZZ                          Read: YES
Subj: KING & I                       Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE

The King and I, has just been added  to my list of "Must Do's" Thank's
"Z"


Date: 03-06-90 (15:09)               Number: 208
  To: ZZZ ZZZ                        Refer#: NONE
From: ERIC NEWHOUSE                    Read: YES (Has Replies)
Subj: BORDER CAFE                    Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE


 Could you possibly review some restaurants in Harvard Square,
Cambridge?  More specifically, could you review the Border Cafe on
Church St?  The Border is a very reasonably priced ($6.95 for giant
sized Fajitas and $9.95 for STEAK fajitas) and popular (don't go on Fri
or Sat night) Mexican/Cajun restaurant.

 Thanks..

                                                -Eric
---
 ■ Via ProDoor 3.2ßR ■ Channel 1 (tm)


Date: 03-06-90 (20:42)               Number: 209
  To: ZZZ ZZZ                        Refer#: NONE
From: MICHAEL SALETNIK                 Read: YES (Has Replies)
Subj: Another review request         Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE

I'd also like to see a review of Rudy's, a *fabulous* Tex-Mex place with
great drink / food prices.  It's on Broadway in Teele Square, Somerville
(where Broadway joins Holland Ave).
        Thanks,
                                Michael

---
 ■ EZ 1.24 #213 ■ "Kill it with electricity" - actual graffitti


Date: 03-06-90 (22:41)               Number: 210
  To: ERIC NEWHOUSE                  Refer#: 208
From: ZZZ ZZZ                          Read: YES (Has Replies)
Subj: BORDER CAFE                    Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE

I tried dining at Border Cafe about two weeks ago. It was packed and the
wait was an hour long. We decided instead to dine at Casa Mexico. Expect
this review in about two weeks. As for B.C., we'll try again at a future
date. Since B.C. opened about four years it has always been packed. I
imagine the prices as you mentioned and the quality of the restaurant
must have something to do with it. I have dined there before and was
very pleased, unfortunately, I do not remember enough to write an
accurate review. Thank you for your prodding, it will not be ignored.
"Z"


Date: 03-06-90 (22:52)               Number: 211
  To: MICHAEL SALETNIK               Refer#: 209
From: ZZZ ZZZ                          Read: YES
Subj: ANOTHER REVIEW REQUEST         Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE

I used to live on Belknap St. off Broadway. I've dined at Rudy's often.
I drove by this week and by the look of things I thought it was closed
down. I liked Rudy's when I used to dine there. It is quite the
university hangout(Tufts). I did not like the cleanliness that much. By
the looks of things now, I don't believe that things have improved. If
in the future, the front of Rudy's looks as if it is still in operation,
I will b happy to dine and review your suggestion. Thanks "Z"


Date: 03-07-90 (18:34)               Number: 213
  To: ALL                            Refer#: NONE
From: TOM REVAY                        Read: (N/A)
Subj: The NPR Pledge Breaks!         Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE

Oh, lawdy, lawdy, I do HATE "Pledge Week" on NPR!  Starting TODAY,
WBUR started asking for money every ten minutes, and now I hear ol'
Eric Inna Evening Jackson saying that 'GBH's Pledge Week will be from
March 10 to March 18.

Last time I checked, a week had seven days.  How come 'GBH gets
nine-day weeks?

About 'GBH -- it's funny, they go by the abbreviation as I've shown
it, but in Merry Olde England these three letters stand for Grevious
Bodily Harm.  And that's what I'd enjoy inflicting when they start
asking for $$$$.

Which is not to say they're not -worth- it -- of course they are, and
every year, I pay my money.  Plus, the company I work for will
double-match the donation.

And yet, every few months, 'GBH threaten Grevious Bodily Harm to my
wallet, sending me these begging letters, asking for more and telling
me they need my -extra- gift so badly.

They used to send me their magazine.  This year, I told 'em to keep
the doggone things.  See, they used to have a magazine for the TV,
and a short program listing for the radio, and that wasn't so bad.
Then they combined the two publications into a fatter, glossier
magazine, which in itself isn't so bad, but what the magazine
represents is worse.  It's LOADED with advertising!  Yes, the public
broadcasting "We don't sell advertising!" magazine has lots of ads.
What's more, they're not your average "Good Luck! Complements of
Joe's Greasy Spoon" donation-style ads like you might expect a
non-profit corporation to carry.  Far from it.

They're ads for Rolls Royces and Range Rovers, real estate companies
advertising "Investment properties, starting at $500,000," and banks
which wouldn't look a customer with my wad in the eye as they speak
to "The Preferred Customer."

Well, why not let these Preferred Customers, who presumably prefer to
read the 'GBH Magazine every month, -pay- for WGBH?  It's clear that
I'm not the kind of person who WGBH considers their "average" reader;
after all, why else would these fancy companies buy the ads unless
they expected to reach their target customers?  WGBH must be able to
present the advertisers with evidence of exactly -who- reads their
magazine.  So why don't they bother those people, and stop sending me
more begging letters every three months?

Anyway, I'll continue giving GBH my geld every year, and I'll
continue having my company match it, generously.  The way I look at
it, it gives me permission to complain about the pledge breaks.
After all, I -paid- my chunk!  Now if everybody else would just ante
up, and we can get back to the jazz!
...................Tom
─────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────
    Better to feign vice than virtue.
        -- Sparrow (New York poet)
─────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────
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 ■ DeLuxe 1.11ß18 #2345


Date: 03-07-90 (20:46)               Number: 214
  To: ZZZ ZZZ                        Refer#: NONE
From: ERIC NEWHOUSE                    Read: YES
Subj: BORDER CAFE                    Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE

First, thank you for reviewing Casa Mexico.  I have been there once, and
I am especially interested in hearing what you think of the restaurant.
As I recall, it was moderately priced but the food was definitely not
anything special.

 As far as the Border I am a regular diner there.  ZZZ, if you are going
to dine there in the future, I *STRONGLY* recommend that you either:

 1. Go on a Mon, Tue, or Wed
 2. Go at 5:00pm any day
 3. Go for lunch.

Otherwise you will consistently run into the hour long wait.  One
strategy that I've used once was to go at 6:30 on a Sat night, put my
name on the list, go watch a movie (Dream Team) at the neighboring
Cinema, and then go back to Border afterwards to eat.

 In terms of food, I can tell you what to expect and give you some
recommendations.  All servings are huge and a tremendous value.  In
particular, here are some recommendations:

   1.  For Appetizers:

         Casa-dee-as are a meal in and of themselves.  In fact, this
appetizer really serves two.  The price is $3.89 cheese, $4.99 to add
chicken or beef, and $.75 extra for either sour cream or guacamole.  I
recommend the Chicken.

         The Buffalo Wings at Border are also excellent, but since you
can get good buffalo wings at a lot of restaurants, I usually pass on
them.  Also, as with all Buffalo Wings, they are slightly messy.

  2.   For the entré.

         You won't go wrong.  Your major decision will be whether to
order Cajún or Mexican.  Although the Mexican is not authentic (I have
eaten in both Mexico and many Los Angeles authentic restaurants), it is
still excellent.  I usually go Mexican because of my inherent love of
the cuisine, but my girlfriend loves the Cajún French Quarter Chicken
($5.95).  On the mexican end:

      Cadillac Fajitas ($9.95) - These are steak fajitas.  Only order
these if you are very hungry or if you have someone to share them with.
All the fixings are included (of course)_

      Chicken Fajitas ($6.95) - also excellent and plentiful

      Burros ($4.95) - An excellent cross between a burito and an
enchilada.  Chicken in a Flour Tortilla with Melted Cheese on Top.

      Steak Tacos ($5.95) - Also excellent.  Always pay the extra few
dollars for steak over beef when you can.  It's well worth it.

      All meals come with rice and beans.  The beans are quite
unexceptional, but the rice is quite good, so I order a double helping
of rice when I remember instead of the beans.

      Drinks:

      Border makes some of the best Margaritas in town.  Unlike the food
though, the prices are on par with most restaurants.

      Standard Margarita/Strawberry/Melon/Peach/Raspberry ($3.95)
      José Cuervo (add $1)
      Gold Margarita - worth trying once; the best they have ($5.95).

      Border also has a full bar, is accessable for the physically
impaired (in off hours esp), and has smoking and non-smoking sections.

      If you are going dry on the night, the softdrinks come in 64oz
cups (for $1 or so).

     Hope this whets your appetite!

                                                -Eric
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 ■ Via ProDoor 3.2ßR ■ Channel 1 (tm)


Date: 03-08-90 (00:40)               Number: 215
  To: ALL                            Refer#: NONE
From: RICK MENAUL                      Read: YES (Has Replies)
Subj: Boston brunch                  Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE

Can anyone recommed a good restaurant in Boston for Sunday brunch?
I'm looking for a nice place, not as nice or as expensive as
say the Four Seasons or the Bay Tower Room, but something a bit
classier and more personal than Friday's.

               Rick
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 ■ DeLuxe 1.11 #5318  What garlic is to salad, insanity is to art.


Date: 03-09-90 (21:18)               Number: 217
  To: RICK MENAUL                    Refer#: 215
From: FRED HAPGOOD                     Read: YES
Subj: Boston brunch                  Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE



> Can anyone recommed a good restaurant in Boston for Sunday
> brunch? I'm looking for a nice place, not as nice or as
> expensive as say the Four Seasons or the Bay Tower Room, but
> something a bit classier and more personal than Friday's.

Rocco's in Park Square (in the Transportation Bldg.).  The decor
and cuisine are forever young; ie, fresh, imaginative, energetic,
interesting.  Had the best hash of my life there -- made with
three different kinds of ham ...








---
 ■ EZ 1.26 ■ South End, Boston


Date: 03-11-90 (21:32)               Number: 219
  To: ALL                            Refer#: NONE
From: ZZZ ZZZ                          Read: YES (Has Replies)
Subj: Review of CIROS                Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE

                              "Z"

              "Z"DINER'S REPORT BY A DINER, FOR A DINER!

 CIROS             Non-Smoking section available.   Cash, Amex,
 239 Harvard St.         [phone]             Mastercard&
 Brookline. Mass                                    Visa accepted.
                       Full Liquor license
         Fully accessible for the physically impaired.
(They request that you call in advance so that suitable arrangement
         can be made to make your visit as convenient as possible)
------------------------------------------------------------------

   I think I have found one of the last of a dying species. A true
dining special for the whole family, "All you can eat pasta dinner".
$5.95 for adults and $2.00 (Yes, TWO dollars) for children 12 and under.

I know what you're thinking, a hotel pan, erupting with mounds of pasta
that is so over cooked that the leftovers are used to plaster walls;
topped with a canned sauce with some dried parsley added so as to be
called home made. If you weren't cynically pondering this seemingly
too good to be true offer, I certainly was. Serendipity!! ( I hope that
I used this phrase correctly) Anyways, I was completely wrong.

   A choice of Pasta della casa (HOME-MADE) Linguine, Angel Hair,
Ziti, Shells, Fettuccine and Fusilli. Topped with a choice of Red
clam sauce, White clam sauce, Alfredo sauce, Marinara sauce, Meat
sauce or Imported Olive Oil and Fresh Garlic sauce. You can order any
combination of pasta and sauce. I recommend that you order half orders
so you'll have room to enjoy everything.

   My favorite was the White Clam sauce. A nice balance of fresh
garlic and imported olive oil and clams. The sauce is full of flavor
and incredibly light. This sauce can easily be lost with a heavy pasta.
Linguine would be best for a nice harmony of pasta to sauce.  The
Alfredo sauce was a superior sauce. It defends it's delicate bouquet
of flavors with any of the pastas. I had it with Ziti. The Marinara
and Meat sauces are also wonderful and good for the not so adventurous
diners such as young children. You have to be a die hard garlic and
olive oil fan to enjoy the imported olive oil and fresh garlic sauce
because, that is all it is.

  If you are unable to make it for the Pasta Smorgasbord, fear not,
Ciros's regular menu is also fantastic. Vitello (Veal), Pollo (Chicken),
Pesce (fish), Bistecca E Cotolette (Steaks & Chops) as well as
Antipasti, Zuppe and Insalate make up a complete menu of Italian
specialities. The prices are not what I consider a family  plan,
the average entrée is about $12.95 The highest $16.95, for Frutti Di
Mare Scampi. Appetizers run in the $5.00 to $9.00 range.

   The service is friendly but lacks consistency. Depending on the
waitperson the service can be the best to the worst. The Restaurant
itself is clean, and has the perfect non-smoking section.

   My over all opinion is that the pasta special can't be beat, if it
can, I want to know and I'm sure the rest of the readers want to
know,,,, WHERE.

The consistency of the service and appearance of the waitstaff
has to be improved before I would justify paying the prices Ciros
imposes.
               Until the next time we mEAT,  Ciao Mein "Z"


Date: 03-13-90 (21:52)               Number: 221
  To: RICK MENAUL                    Refer#: 215
From: ZZZ ZZZ                          Read: YES
Subj: BOSTON BRUNCH                  Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE

Rick,
  Tuner Fisheries Sunday Brunch $19.95, A decent semi-elegant brunch.
A review to follow in the near future.
  Top of the Hob, $15.??, A great view, (on a clear day) service poor
and a bit snobbish. But because it is a buffet brunch ,it shouln't be to
much of a problem. (a review to follow.)
  St Botolph, Not a Buffet style ,but excellent service and food(limited
set price, brunch menu) I can't remember the price off the top of my
head right now ,But I believe it was under $14.00.
                             "Z"


Date: 03-14-90 (02:11)               Number: 222
  To: ZZZ ZZZ                        Refer#: 219
From: ERIC NEWHOUSE                    Read: YES (Has Replies)
Subj: Review of CIROS                Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE

ZZZ,

 I'm sorry to add another imposition to your arlready thorough reviews,
but do you think you could include MBTA directions in your reviews?
I'm not asking for anything fancy: perhaps just something to the effect
of (ie. for the Border Cafe) - "Redline to Harvard, exit to Church St,
1/2 block West (across from Harvard Yard)." ...  One line should do it.

 Thanks much.. !

                                                -Eric
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 * Via ProDoor 3.1R ■ Channel 1 (tm)


Date: 03-14-90 (02:15)               Number: 223
  To: ZZZ ZZZ                        Refer#: NONE
From: ERIC NEWHOUSE                    Read: YES (Has Replies)
Subj: BRUNCHES                       Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE

Where are these restaurants (ie. Turner Fisheries, Top of the Hob, St.
Botolph, etc)?  As it happens, I'm looking to go to Sunday Brunch this
Sunday.  In the past I've really enjoyed 33 Dunster St (Harvard Square);
they have a $13 buffet lunch that's better than anything I've found in
Boston.  Coffee and Orange Juice is extra, however..  Well worth it
still.
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 * Via ProDoor 3.1R ■ Channel 1 (tm)


Date: 03-15-90 (18:51)               Number: 224
  To: ERIC NEWHOUSE                  Refer#: 223
From: ZZZ ZZZ                          Read: YES
Subj: BRUNCHES                       Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE


-> Where are these restaurants (ie. Turner Fisheries, Top of the Hob,
-> St. Botolph, etc)?  As it happens, I'm looking to go to Sunday Brunch

 Tuner Fisheries is located Copley Mall at the bottom of the Westen
Hotel.
 Top of the Hob, 52 or 54th floor of the Prudential building.
 St Botolph, is located on St Botolph street in the Back Bay.
                                                   "Z"


Date: 03-14-90 (15:38)               Number: 225
  To: ERIC NEWHOUSE                  Refer#: 222
From: ZZZ ZZZ                          Read: YES (Has Replies)
Subj: REVIEW OF CIROS                Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE

Sorry  about that, take green line to the Coolidge Corner stop.
(Harvard and Beacon) walk up Harvard towards Longwood and it's in this
 area, about two  blocks from Beacon street on the left.
                                           "Z"


Date: 03-15-90 (19:52)               Number: 228
  To: ALL                            Refer#: NONE
From: ZZZ ZZZ                          Read: (N/A)
Subj: Casa Mexico in Harvard Sq      Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE

                              "Z"
             "Z"DINER'S REPORT BY A DINER, FOR A DINER!

Casa Mexico       Non-Smoking section available.   Cash, Amex,
75 Winthrop St.       [phone]               Mastercard &
Cambridge, MA.                                     Visa accepted.
            NOT  accessible for the physically impaired.
                           Full Bar
-----------------------------------------------------------------
  After being buried alive with the mega-openings of Tex-Mex
establishments, authentic Mexican Restaurants are starting to
reappear again . Yeah!!!

  In Harvard Square, there exists a decent Mexican restaurant called
Casa Mexico. It was opened in 1967 by Dave Sherwood. I must warn you.
If you don't like crowded (I emphasize crowded) dining arrangements or
if you're big or have any mobility problems, then Casa Mexico is
definitely a place that you should AVOID. There is very little room
between tables and you have to be able to twist and contort your body
to get around your fellow diners.

  The atmosphere is pleasant (if you don't mind the above). The decor
and crammed dining room help to create a unique dining experience.
It is a little too dark for my liking but the darkness adds to the
ambience.

  Casa Mexico's menu is a well organized and easy to read. The
descriptions are fairly detailed. The average price of entrées is
about $12.00. Appetizers around $5.50.

  After you are seated, you are given chips and a moderately spicy
salsa. The chips were fresh and the salsa has an excellent cilantro
finish.  We started out by ordering the soup of the day (Pinto bean)
$3.75. My dining companion suggested, "always try the soup of the
day", he's never been disappointed.  I had the De Aguacate a la Casa
Mexico (chilled avocado soup) $5.25. The soup was O.K. a little too
bland. Actually, the soup was kind of dull. As for my partner he was
once again satisfied with a content, Ahhhhhh.

  We ordered Guacamole $5.50, you get about 6oz of Guacamole, plenty
to go with your chips and to use as a condiment with the rest of your
meal. The appetizer that I truly enjoyed was Chiles Rellenos. To best
describe this dish, I use the description that the menu gives:
"Select whole chile peppers, sauteed in a unique egg batter,
stuffed with delicious blend of melted cheeses and  panfried to a
golden turn. Maravilloso!!" $6.25.

   Entrées, we ordered Camarones Al Cilantro $14.25. 5 large, plump,
juicy shrimp served in a coriander sauce. The coriander sauce was an
explosion of flavors. It was very good and very mild as far as
spiciness is concerned.

  Móle Poblano $12.25,  7-8 oz of succulent chicken breast, very moist
and tender. I dislike sounding cliche but the chicken was moist and
tender. The Molè sauce was also very satisfying. A healthy bit of HOT
that can only be explained as titillating. If you like Molè sauce,
then I believe that you will be impressed with Casa Mexico's Molè
sauce. If you never had a Molè sauce then I recommend that your first
experience be with Casa Mexico.

  For dessert, we had Flan (egg custard) $1.95. It was good but then
there is little you can do to make flan better or worst. For the finale
we had Cafe Casa Mexico $1.85. It's coffee sweetened with a mixture of
herbs and spices. It was a nice ending. The boost of caffeine gives
you the necessary energy to take a walk through Harvard Square and
work off some of your meal.

  Over all I felt that Casa Mexico was a pleasant dining experience.
The service, I thought was poor, I felt as if our waiter was apathetic
with his job and less interested with us. But the food and the
atmosphere compensated for the lack of service.

  A friend of mine complained to me about their smoking section. Tables
that are designated non-smoking can be changed without notice or
consideration to the non-smokers who are already dining in that
section. My friend commented about this problem to management, he
felt as if they (management) could care less, and proved it by doing
nothing about it. I consider this a very big negative. I like the
choice of smoking or non-smoking, but once the decision is made as
to which tables are smoking and which are not, it should stay that
way.

                           "Z"
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 ■ Via ProEdit 3.2ßR ■ Channel 1 (tm)


Date: 03-15-90 (21:18)               Number: 229
  To: ZZZ ZZZ                        Refer#: 225
From: ERIC NEWHOUSE                    Read: YES (Has Replies)
Subj: REVIEW OF CIROS                Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE

Thanks for your prompt responses!  One quick question: Is the prudential
building on the Gov Center Stop on the T?

                                                -Eric
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 ■ Via ProDoor 3.2ßR ■ Channel 1 (tm)


Date: 03-15-90 (22:00)               Number: 231
  To: ERIC NEWHOUSE                  Refer#: 229
From: ZZZ ZZZ                          Read: YES (Has Replies)
Subj: REVIEW OF CIROS                Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE

-> Thanks for your prompt responses!  One quick question: Is the
-> prudential building on the Gov Center Stop on the T?

   No, Copley (Green Line) would be the nearest. Maybe someone else can
give better directions on how to get to the Prudential Building. I can
tell you that it is not difficult. Sorry that I can't do much better
then that. "Z"


Date: 03-16-90 (13:22)               Number: 232
  To: ZZZ ZZZ                        Refer#: 231
From: NANCY JOHNSON                    Read: YES
Subj: REVIEW OF CIROS                Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE

The E trains prudential stop would be the closest or   on the other
lines Copley or the stop after that is also in walking distance.
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 ■ Via ProDoor 3.2ßR ■ Channel 1 (tm)