Kokoro Sushi (Denver, Colorado)

Kokoro Sushi Restaurant
http://kokorodenver.ypguides.net/
303) 432-0600 * 5535 Wadsworth, Arvada * (55th and Wadsworth)
A small healthy fast food joint off Wadsworth, part of a chain of a similar diner that’s in the style of Tokyo Joes somewhat, but more sushi and Japanese fare than Tokyo Joes. Specializing in lunch and dinner, they do have a healthier menu than most fast food restaurants and its nutritious and speedy. When I can’t do Tokyo Joes, Kokoro is my next choice, especially since I quit fastfood restaurants (unless I can’t help it). I like the Broadway location better than the Wadsworth, but both do me well. They even have a drive-thru and offer deliver by JEEVES by calling JEEVES at 303-534.TOGO or log onto the JEEVES website at www.deliverybyjeeves.com. Rating: 4 stars out of 5.

Yak and Yeti Indian Cuisine (Westminster, Colorado)

Yak and Yeti * Westminster * 8665 N. Sheridan * Westminster, Colorado * 303-426-1976 * http://www.yakandyeti.net/
A high-quality Indian chain restaurant with a delicious buffet. This Westminster branch is located in a shopping court and is easily located for a drive by from the highway. The decor is modest and lacks extravagance as one usually sees in most moderately priced Indian restaurants, but the service is very good, as is the food. The Buffet is all you can eat for $14.95 and gives you a wide variety of some of your favorite Indian dishes. All in all, a good experience, and I’m sure I’ll be back. Rating 3.5 stars out of 5. Visited 7/18/08.

Historic Jamestown Virginia

Historic Colonial Williamsburg * Williamsburg, Virginia (downtown) * http://www.history.org/
In this very pristine historic living history town costumed actors bring to life the incendiary passions of the Revolution on the streets of Colonial Williamsburg so that the future may learen from the past. While you can do historic Williamsburg without purchasing a ticket, they highly encourage it and emphasize that its a must (though I didn’t have any problems without a pass). I didn’t bother with one because I only went in the evenings and late afternoons - maybe that’s why. If you’ve got it, buy a pass to help support this wonderful project. General admission passes include access to a variety of Historic Area buildings and exhibits, the Museums of Colonial Williamsburg, and regular daytime programs. Some offer discounts on evening performances and other perks. Bus transportation is included in your Colonial Williamsburg admission. Access to as many as 20 to 40 Historic Area buildings and exhibits (depending on season and operating schedules), such as the Capitol, Raleigh Tavern, Great Hopes Plantation, all historic trades sites (wheelwright, blacksmith, silversmith, milliner, wigmaker, etc.), all gardens, and all original 18th-century exhibition sites (the Courthouse, Gaol, Magazine, and the homes of Peyton Randolph and George Wythe), along with admission to Revolutionary City®. Check Colonial Williamsburg This Week for openings. Also includes Capitol tour, orientation tour, regular daytime programs*, and viewing of the movie classic Williamsburg—The Story of a Patriot. Plus, free parking at the Visitor Center and use of Historic Area shuttle buses. ($37/adults; $18 for ages 6-17)

Colonial Williamsburg is the historic district of Williamsburg, Virginia and consists of many of the buildings that existed from 1699 to 1780 that formed the colonial capital of Williamsburg and a thriving pivotal point of the historic triangle (Jamestown and Yorktown). It was once the center for Government, education, and culture in the Colony of Virginia. As a historical re-enactment village, its meant to be an interpretation of a Colonial American city with exhibits including dozens of authentic and accurately-recreated colonial houses, shops, and activity grounds including the Raleigh Tavern, the Capital building, the Governor’s Palace, and Bruton Parish Church. The Historic area is located just east of the College of William and Mary that was founded at Middle Plantation in 1693 just prior to the establishment of the town as capital of Virginia. the restoration and recreation of Colonial Williamsburg, one of the largest historic restorations ever undertaken, was championed by the Reverend Dr. W.A.R. Goodwin and the patriarch of the Rockefeller family, John D. Rockefeller, Jr., along with the active participation of his wife, Abby Aldrich Rockefeller, who wanted to celebrate the patriots and the early history of the United States.
Rating: 5 stars out of 5. Visited 5/20/08, 5/21/08, and 5/22/08.

Captain George’s Seafood, Jamestown, Virginia

Captain George’s Seafood Restaurant * 5363 Richmond Road | Williamsburg, VA 23185 * (757) 565-2323 * http://www.captaingeorges.com
A legendary enormous seafood buffet with some of the freshest and most delicious seafood available. They have four locations - one in Myrtle Beach, SC; and three in Virginia. I visited the Williamsburg, Virginia location on 5/20/08. Captain Georges was started in 1978 by George and Sherry Pitsilides who wanted to provide fresh seafood in an all-you-can eat buffet featuring more than 70 items. Their menu often consists of She-Crab Soup, New England Clam Chowder, Snow Crab Legs, Steamed Spiced Shrimp, Prime Rib, Fresh Broiled Salmon, Seafood Casserole, Steamed Clams, Steamed Mussels, Norfolk Special, Fried Scallops, Fried Trout, Fried Shrimp, Baked Imperial Crabmeat Supreme, BBQ Ribs, Hampton-Style
Crab Cakes, Stuffed Mushrooms, Broiled Chicken, Oven Fried Clam Strips, Captain’s Own Deviled Crab, Manicotti, Stuffed Clams, A Variety of Fresh Broiled Fish, Clams Casino, Oysters Rockefeller, Hard Blue Crabs, Fresh Baked Breads as the main courses with just as many vegetables and sides and desserts offered. The food was fabulous as was the service. Rating 5 stars out of 5.

National Geographic Live ~ Afghanistan: Voices of Cultural Preservation

NG Live! lecture and private reception - Afghanistan: Voices of Cultural Preservation * National Geographic Society * 1145 17th Street, NW, Washington, D.C. 20036 http://www.nationalgeographic.com/nglive/washingtondc/s2008/single/afghanistan.html * Thursday, 22 May 2008: 6:30-10:30 pm

This week it’s been an honor as an invited guest, coming up from Colorado to participate and join Fredrik Hiebert’s presentations of the Hidden Treasures of Afghanistan, the press preview, and the NG Live! presentation and repatriation of additional national treasures of Afghanistan that were collected by Homeland Security when they stopped the illegal transport of Afghanistan’s heritage into the United States. The NG Live! presentation and discussion was available (at cost) to the public, held at the National Geographic Society. Presented was a panel discussion on many various elements of cultural preservation issues and concerns surrounding Afghanistan especially in relation to the Hidden Treasures that are currently available for viewing at the National Gallery of Art until September 2008. Omara Masoudi, the Director of the National Museum of Afghanistan discussed the hiding, recovery, preservation of the treasures and the rebuilding of the Museum after its destruction during Afghanistan’s civil war. Reza, the director of AINA, who has photo documented Afghanistan for over two decades presented some of his work and the devotion him and his organization AINA has towards the development of independent Afghan media - including some really well crafted cultural preservation episodes made for children to help teach the prevention of looting Afghanistan’s heritage. Fred Hiebert, National Geographic Archaeologist and curator of the Hidden Treasures while in D.C., was a key role in the recovery and verification of the “Bactrian hoard” - a priceless collection of Silk Road-era artifacts that are among the Hidden Treasures of Afghanistan exhibit; he was commended for his work and presented much of the story of this epic of history. Photographer Steve McCurry the infamous photographer who photographed one of National Geographic Magazine’s most famous cover photos - “Afghan girl” in 1984 - showed a slide show of all of his photos (some unpublished photos) in Afghanistan he’s been photographing since the struggle against the Soviets. Shamim Jawad, the founder of Ayenda, who runs an organization in Afghanistan for improving the lives of Afghan families discussed her projects and the recently released Afghan children’s songbook. Fred Starr, the Director of the Central Asia-Caucasus Institute at John Hopkins University moderated the evening. A surprise repatriation ceremony took place at the end when officials from Homeland Security presented and returned a collection of artifacts they recovered from illegal smugglers that were stealing Afghanistan’s heritage. They were repatriated back to Afghanistan. This week and the discussions at NG Live: Voices of Afghanistan presented that there are serious cultural preservation concerns and cultural pleas of help with Afghanistan and timing is critical. The courageous individuals who spoke this evening demonstrated many different ways they and others can take action in defending Afghanistan’s incredible history and heritage. Afterwards, a private reception at National Geographic was held where National Geographic staff, invited guests, Afghanistan’s ambassador and his wife, royal family, benefactors, and those involved with the events came together to wine and dine and network together on the things they’ve done. I had a wonderful visit. Thank you Fred. Rating 5 stars out of 5. Visited 5/22/2008.

03.22.08, Part III: Granville, Kitto, Bubble Tea, Wall Center, UBC @ Robson Square

Saturday, 22 March 2008 - Part 3 * Vancouver, British Columbia
It’s been an interesting day here in Vancouver. Strolling on the beach in the morning, a wild pillow fight at Robson square, and then a moment of being faminished and needing to search out sushi and Bubble Tea. What a popular combination. Plus this is going to be my sushi diet weekend - not intended, its just how it worked out. There is nothing more divine in this world than Sushi, but perhaps Sushi in the Pacific Northwest where its fresh and its produced by the heart of Asian culture in the New World.

Wandering around downtown Vancouver is always a wonderful thing to do, so many sights to see, and alot of culture to breathe in.

Tokyo Joes * 955 Helmcken Street * Vancouver BC V6Z 2S5 * 604.689.0073
An interesting little Japanese restaurant chain in Vancouver. It’s odd because there is a really chic chain called Tokyo Joes in Denver Colorado that’s upbeat and expanding. Seeing this little plain joint in Vancouver when used to the really artsy one in Colorado was kind of a “huh?” slap across the cheek. So now i ponder is this the original one and the Colorado folks ripped the idea off of them, or did the Vancouver folks rip off the Denver folks. Curious. I’ve heard its good in Vancouver but didn’t get a chance to try it out. I know the un-associated ones in Denver are fabulous and to the point that I’m a Joe-addict.

Granville Street * Vancouver, British Columbia * http://www.granvillestreet.com/
Ah Granville street, oh how I have missed thee. So many memories from the days that I used to roam around this artsy and entertainment bustling center of downtown Vancouver. I also remember back in the day when the city of Vancouver wanted to relocate all of the nightclubs in the city to just this street which of course never succeeded. During the years that I lived in Vancouver this was one of my shopping and dining tromping grounds. I’d hit up the coffee shops, the restaurants, and even some of the nightlife with shows at the Vogue, Gothic cheers at one of the pubs, and when Luvafair first moved to the Plaza for some britpop and 80’s fun. For the visitor or resident of Vancouver, this is a hotspot of activity for pub crawling, club dancing, unique and alternative culture shopping, arts, shows, concerts, and as well as some of Vancouver’s notorious seediness and pandhandlers. Rating: 4.5 stars out of 5. Visited almost daily during my last visit 3/26-3/31 as I was staying nearby, and quite often when I was living in Vancouver.

Vogue Theater * 918 Granville St., Vancouver, BC V6Z 1L2 * http://www.voguetheatre.com/
Tickets: http://www.ticketmaster.com/venue/139279. In the heart of downtown Vancouver lies the historical remains of the Vogue theater. The Vogue is surrounded by many myths and legends especially amongst it’s association with being haunted. Many famous people have walked through these doors. In 2006 it was closed as its web site still professes. It is however still a very active theater with live music, comedy acts, and shows every weekend. In 1941 it was a monument of sophisticated art deco design and home to the arts. It housed 1200 seats that presented Vancouver’s hottest acts and talent through the years. It still is one of those hotspots. Conveniently located right on the main bus station route, its a hotspot of Vancouver’s heritage for events of all kinds and varieties. While I’ve never seen the ghosts that haunt these seats, I did however have some memorable moments of entertainment within those walls. Rating 5 stars out of 5.

UBC on Robson Square * 800 Robson Square * Vancouver, B.C. V6Z 3B7 * 604.822.3333 * http://www.robsonsquare.ubc.ca/
When I first went to the University of British Columbia, the only place I could attend college in Vancouver was their main campus over by Pacific Spirit Park / Wreck Beach / Spanish Banks just west of Jericho Beach. But during my Multimedia studies, UBC decided to open a branch at Robson Square. I remember it was desired as well as controversial. Visiting the School 6-7 years later, I saw major improvements and that the campus took over the underground area that resides below Robson Street. UBC of course offers stimulating arts and humanities courses, leading edge technology programs, live performances, international events, and public forums at this location while providing a unique and metropolitan environment for the student being beneath the Fashion and arts district of downtown Vancouver, British Columbia. The classrooms were high tech and spacious when I attended, I’m sure they’ve done nother other than improve. Recently Visited 3/22/08. Rating: 5 stars out of 5.

Sheraton Vancouver Wall Centre Hotel * 1088 Burrard Street, Vancouver, British Columbia V6Z 2R9 * 604-331-1000
I can only compliment the architectural design of this building as I didn’t stay here during my visit to Canada, nor have I ever. But for those who enjoy architectural design and monuments, the Wall center is some eye candy in that arena. Its located within walking distance from the fashion and commerce districts of Vancouver possessing a dynamic view of the ethereal supernatural beauty that Vancouver is well known for - from the heights of its uppermost floors one can see all of Vancouver, the Bay, the harbour, Canada Place, Grouse and Cypress mountain. This building is a monument of mirrored glass windowns with a soothing courtyard holding spectacular gardens, cascading water, and Roman-styled hand-laid paving stones mixing modern architecture with classical beauty. From the outside, this looks like a plush and comfortable place to stay. For more information, see www.sheratonvancouver.com. Rating of architectural design: 4 out of 5; Rating of Hotel: Unknown. Viewed 3/22/08.

Bubble Tea Booth * On Burrard Street between Robson and Georgia * Vancouver, B.C.
I’m sorry I don’t have the name of this little booth and an internet search provided no success. There is a little hole-in-the-wall (literally) booth just East of Robson on Burrard street (left side when facing Canada Place) that is more of a kiosk or booth than a restaurant. You can get really cheap pre-made sushi packs, sodas, tea, candy, ice cream, and of course home-made Bubble Tea. The Coconut tea was fabulous. Its a nice quick cheap snack / lunch alternative hotspot in the busy fashion and commerce district. Great for budget travel since most restaurants in the area cost an arm and a leg. Rating 4 stars out 5 for the Bubble Tea; 3 stars out of 5 for the Sushi. Visited 3/22; 3/26; 3/28/2008.

Kitto Japanese House * 833 Granville Street, Vancouver, British Columbia * 604-687-6622
Kitto is in the heart of Granville street just around the corner from Robson. Its a busy, brisk, and small joint right off the main drag known as Granville where many of the nightclubs, bars, unique shops, and entertainment reside. The combo’s are pretty good and its recommended to finish off the meal is some good green tea ice cream. This particular visit (I’ve been here many times) I was running late and joining my group of friends after they were half done with their food. I had to tell a waitress twice i wanted to order, but once it got through i was a new addition to the table, they were really quick with getting my food out. The Unagi was pretty good as well as the Vegetable tempura. They also have a good selection of Vegetarian dishes and sushi. The fish tastes pretty fresh. Average price of Sushi $10-20. Review: 4 stars out of 5. Visited 3/22/08.

03.21.08, Day 1 Part 4: Vancouver, B.C.: Vegan goodies at the Naam, Fire & Spinning down at Wreck Beach

Friday, 21 March 2008 - Day 1, Part 4 * Vancouver, British Columbia
It’s definitely really nice to be back in the Pacific Northwest, Vancouver, British Columbia … nonetheless. While still chilly, far cry warmer than Colorado … and a nice break from the snow. My friend Lori called me to meet her at the Naam, an incredible Vegetarian restaurant in the heart of Kitslano, a neighbourhood in Vancouver, where alot of artsy, health-conscious folk live. Kitslano is a little more pricey than the rest of Vancouver, but laid back and not as crowded as other areas of the city. Its also surrounded by beach, neighboured by Jericho Beach, Pacific Spirit Park, and the University of British Columbia. I walked down 4th from Jericho Beach, enjoying the night air, and folks heading off to happy hour and found my way to a very busy and crowded restaurant. A fifteen minute wait and I soon had a table for me and my friends who were soon to arrive.

The Naam
2724 4th Avenue West * Vancouver, BC V6K 1R1, Canada * (604) 738-7151 * In Kitsilano near the beach
I remember the Naam vividly from when I used to live in Vancouver, and from every trip I’ve made to this gorgeous city ever since. After all, where else could you find a full service Vegetarian restaurant open 24 hours and 7 days a week but in Kitslano? It is and was always a popular venue for after clubbing fare as well. Always crowded and servicing the most excellent food, it’s worth the wait. It’s been around forever it seems, and is the city’s oldest natural foods restaurant. “Funky” decor with wooden tables and a wooden floor with a garden patio for summertime seating. Every night from 7-10 they boast live music such as blues, folk, and jazz. Everything on the menu is fabulous, and if memory serves me my favorite dishes are the Thai and Naam Dragon Bowls, Thai Noodles, Buddha’s Feast, and Crying Tiger Stir Fry. The Naam Burrito Wrap is also fabulous. On this particular re-visit I had the Buddha’s Feast, topped with cashews and was in palatable heaven. Top that off with a Chai shake, and I was good as gold. Rating: 5 stars out of 5.

After dinner, even though it was close to midnight, we were headset on going to Wreck Beach. No liquor stores were open or available, so it was energy drinks and chips to take down with us. Wreck Beach is technically closed at dark, but that doesn’t stop half of the population of beach-goers from going at night, even during winter, to head down to one of North America’s largest clothing optional beaches for a campfire and/or beach party. Parking is convenient in the garages at UBC and its a short jolt down a very steep several hundred staired climb to the beach. Don’t park along the road however after 11 pm, as you’ll be towed, as they figure you are down at the beach when you’re not supposed to be.

Wreck Beach Vancouver, British Columbia
One of the world’s most famous ‘clothing optional’ beaches is one of my most favorite natural locations in all of my worldly travels. Especially during the day and summer, my memories are a whirl-wind of fun from the days I’ve lived here and the times I visited. Of course, during the winter months, and evenings, like today’s visit, there is no absence of clothing. But during the warm days, 95% of the population is stripped down, and you definitely can get sun, surf, and full body tan taken care of in one. Plus a moderate temperature ocean experience where you can actually go swimming. Sure during the winter months, crazy Vancouverites who are members of the Polar Bear club will take a frisky naked dip, especially to ring in the New Year. During the day, vendors galore from legal merchants selling freshly prepared Vegetarian and/or wild game grub (like Venison, Buffalo, Elk burgers), Sarongs, and beach stuff … there are the ‘illegal’ vendors who sell chocolate covered mushrooms, pot, margarita’s, beer, and mixed drinks. Of course, this kind of vending is illegal and not tolerated, apparently often cracked down on, even though to access Wreck Beach, is a long, panting climb down a series of several hundred stops - so most law enforcement don’t have the lungs to keep running up and down the staircase. Lots of activities and community fun always takes place at Wreck Beach, and sometimes even night time bonfires, fire spinning, and beach parties take place. If you’re a naturalist, this is definitely a place not to miss. Rating: 5 stars out of 5.

It was a bit of an exhausting climb down the stairs, especially since I’m out of shape, but my asthmatic lungs at least handled the climb better than when I lived here, because I’m used to higher altitudes and more struggling breathing. Warm sand beneath my feet, campfires off in the distance, each attached to their own little beach party. We wandered to a few in hopes of finding someone we knew, but alas, such was not the case. So we started our own little fire and Bonefinder entertained us with some fire spinning staff and poi till 4 o’clock in the morning. Good times were had by all.

Tokyo Joe’s, Centennial, Colorado

Tokyo Joe’s (Centennial)
http://www.tokyojoes.com/ * Dry Creek and Yosemite (centennial) * 8727 E. Dry Creek Rd, Englewood, CO 80112 * 303.721.8886
As I’ve quit typical Amerikan fast-food, I’ve switched to some of the more healthy fast-food alternatives when in a rush and a need for a cost-effective meal that’s good for me. Colorado’s small (yet fastly growing) fast food Japanese chain, Tokyo Joe’s is upbeat and expanding. The food is good, fast, healthy, and affordable. How can you go wrong? In like-style of Noodles and Company in presentation and design, Tokyo Joe’s takes a different artistic approach. I adore their Unagi Rice Bowls, the California Rolls are delicious, and the chicken satay yummy. It’s a great healthy fix. Rating 5 stars out of 5 (for fast food: Japanese quality 3 out of 5). Visited 2/17/08.

Chicken Satay

Unagi Rice Bowl

Tom’s Diner & Le Peep, Denver, Colorado

Le Peep
999 18th St. * Major Cross Streets: 18th and Champa * Shopping Center: Denver Place Building * Denver, Colorado * Phone: 303-244-0360 * lepeep.com
It’s a chain, but it’s wholesome and has good food and service. They claim “fresh. simple. elegant”. Well it is a little more elegant than most diners, but it’s a diner. The food was fresh. The orange juice tasty. “The Gypsy” skillet dish was delicious. It was a good breakfast. Located two streets down from Denver’s infamous 16th street Mall, it had a good location and satisfied our palettes for brekkie. Rating 4 stars out of 5.

Tom’s Diner
601 E. Colfax Ave. * Denver, CO * 80203 * 303-861-7493
Apparently one of Denver’s legendary dives, this diner certainly isn’t as crowded as Denver Diner for after clubbing fare. According to Westword, it’s the “absolute best spot for watching Denver’s insomniac-freak community while eating decent diner grub.” Which i do have to agree with … located across from Bender’s and down the street from Cafe Netherworld, the food wasn’t bad. The waiter was friendly, and we had a good time sobering up at the location. So if you’re out partying and you wanna stumble from the clubs … this place has it all. Rating 4.2 stars out of 5.

The Donut Mill, Woodland Park, Colorado

The Donut Mill * 310 West Midland Avenue, PO BOX 5710, Woodland Park, Colorado 80866 * 719.687.9793
A 30 year tradition in the heart of Woodland Park, along Hwy 24. They claim the fame of being “The” Woodland Park Landmark. This nice little bakery/donut house has a friendly staff and incredible pastries. Their biscuits and gravy are to die for as well. It’s a great stop off on your journeys into the mountains and valleys of Colorado’s wonderlands. Our brief visit was very satisfying as we dropped in for a visit and a brunch on our way to the Orient Land Trust. Rating: 4 stars out of 5. Visited 11/10/07.

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