The Nook at Lama Dog -- Santa Barbara, CA

We decided it was time for a get away and took a trip out of town to Santa Barbara, CA. No one can resist a relaxing escape at some point in this topsy-turvy world. I'm sure you all have felt that way before.

As we drove up the California State Route 1, aka Highway 1, the scenic views took our breath away. We cracked the window for a while to savor the sweet, salty ocean air. It was brisk and refreshing to the senses. 

When we arrived at our hotel, we were delighted to find a large sized room where we had the pleasure of unwinding during our four day stay. There was even a mini-fridge to keep our beverages and snacks chilled!

We walked down the main strip people watching again, and found ourselves at Stearns Wharf; a lengthy pier extending out into the harbor. The chilly breeze buffeted the visitors crowding the wharf. We enjoyed our time there but we were excited to explore the local pretzel scene so we set off in search of a brewery.

Our first stop was the Lama Dog Tap Room + Bottle Shop. Upon entry we sat at the high counter top bar with high top chairs on either side. The food venue, The Nook, was off to the corner and was its own business. While Kenny went to purchase our first vacation pretzel, Sarah took time to study the physical paper map of Santa Barbara. Kenny quietly laughed at her in a loving way when he got back. He got a kick out of the fact "she was studying the map as Lewis and Clark did while exploring the Louisiana Purchase."
- Kenny Muzzey

March 17th, 2022

The Nook at the Lama Dog -- Santa Barbara, CA

The pretzel was hefty in size with a light amount of salt sprinkled across the top. The mahogany colored baked dough was unfortunately a huge disappointment. The texture was very, very dry making the pretzel extremely hard to eat and especially enjoy.

The accoutrements included ground stone mustard and queso-like beer cheese.

Final Rating: 1.75/5.00

This review is the lowest ranked post we hopefully ever write which means our pretzel tasting experience in Santa Barbara could only get better.

Sincerely,
Kenny Muzzey & Sarah Love

Carly's Bistro -- Phoenix, AZ

First Friday on Roosevelt Row, Downtown Phoenix Arts District

A tidbit of information for those of you who are not local Phoenicians…

First Friday is a monthly Art Walk that occurs every, well... every first Friday of the month. It is a free, all ages event. Vendors, local artists, and food trucks line the road and side streets selling their wares. Open shops, niche restaurants and breweries, are aplenty. There are interesting performances and many prime opportunities to people watch. We actually encountered Flat Earthers there.

"I'd hold a discussion with them if they approach me." ~Kenny Muzzey

Needless to say, Sarah was extremely grateful when they did not approach Kenny, as she had no idea how that would end.

First Friday is definitely an excellent way to spend a Friday evening in the desert (especially during Spring and Fall).

P.S. Our favorite place to visit on Roosevelt Row is The Theodore (Beer + Wine Bar and Bottle Shop) for their amazing beer and mead selection. Unfortunately, they do not sell food (so there is no pretzel) but we really enjoy the vibe. However, food trucks will visit every Thursday for Trivia Night and more often than not on Fridays and Saturdays. If you wish to follow the food truck schedule check out their Facebook or Instagram.

On to our review...

March 4th, 2022

Carly's Bistro -- Phoenix, AZ

This full-sized pretzel glistened with a buttery glaze and was deep, rich, and dark brown in color. The amount of salt was light; it had a doughy texture that was just right. Honestly, as for the photo, we’re not exactly sure what Kenny was doing here. The images we had to choose from were few and far between and seemingly lacked foresight and proper presentation. This delectable treat was not done any justice by way of Kenny’s standard of photography.  (This photo critique came straight from Kenny, by the way.)


The pretzel was served with basic yellow mustard and creamy beer cheese that had a slight bite.

3.0/5.0

Sincerely,
Kenny Muzzey & Sarah Love