February 27, 2005
Aspen in the Desert
The Imperial Valley of southern California is indeed a special place. If you eat salads and vegetables there is a good chance these foodstuffs were grown here. There are miles and miles of perfectly flat fields as far as the eye can see.
So while we are on the subject of food, let’s talk about Aspen in the Desert. Without the maze of irrigation ditches and piping, the Imperial Valley would revert back to a wasteland. So it makes sense that Harry Madera would name his fantastic restaurant Aspen in the Desert.
Aspen in the Desert is located at 595 Main Street on the northern edge of Brawley, CA. What a refreshing experience it is to relax and enjoy a meal here. I had the pleasure to do that last night with two great friends of mine, Dick and Sue Daniels. The three of us were in town to see the sights in the middle of the desert and the occasional plane in the sky just west of all of those emerald green fields.
Can you think of the last time you made reservations at a restaurant and not only was the table set for the exact number in the party, but there was also a sign resting on the table indicating the table was indeed reserved? Can you remember the last time the head chef actually delivered his signature dinner personally to your table? This is the type of service you get at Aspen in the Desert.
I should not have to tell you how the food tasted. One would think Harry was preparing it for his own mother. My filet mignon was cooked to perfection. Sue’s signature dinner of salmon with a special maple-whiskey glaze was to die for. Dick’s lasagna must have been delicious, as he didn’t talk much during the meal.
If you are driving west across Interstate 8 from Arizona towards San Diego, it is well worth the time to drive 15 minutes north of the highway to get to Aspen in the Desert. Don’t forget to make reservations! Call Harry at 760-344-4468. If you fall in love with Harry's food, just get a room next door at the Brawley Inn.
February 2, 2005
Buy the Builder a Snack
Yes, I do get hungry from time to time. I am no different than you.
What am I talking about? Well, it is simple.
Often people tell me in emails how much they like my AsktheBuilder.com columns. That is great, I sincerely appreciate the sentiments.
But then there is another group of folks that wants to go one step further.
So I came up with this silly idea: Buy the Builder a Snack!
It gets better, if you want me to come to your house for a consult and then we go to dinner, I can make that happen.....
