What I love is when a recommended restaurant lives up to the recommendation. I’ve been hearing about P.F. Chang’s China Bistro for a while now…in t.v. shows, from friends, from family.  The nearest location to home is well over two hours away.  So, on a recent trip to Phoenix, I was happy to finally have a meal at P.F. Chang’s.  We visited the mothership location in Scottsdale, and there was nothing disappointing about the experience.

Our meal started with the very popular Chicken Lettuce Wraps.  Then, we sampled two meals served family style with white or brown rice.  The two entrees were Chang’s Spicy Chicken (P.F. Chang’s take on General Tso’s Chicken) and Orange Peel Chicken. Both were spiced to both our tastes and there was adequate not only  for dinner but for lunch the following day!  Delicious meal. Two thumbs up for both entrees AND the lettuce wraps!

Of note is the large number of gluten free items on the menu, including a recently added gluten free beer. Service is spectacular. Ambience is warm.

Visit P.F. Chang’s website to find locations, see the menu, make reservations, order take-out, see the new line of P.F Chang entrees in your grocery’s freezer section.

Photo credit: wolfgrins

As a rule, I don’t tout chain restaurants.  There’s too much room for inconsistency from store to store.  I believe I’ve found an exception.  I recently had the opportunity to dine at Texas Roadhouse in two different states.   The quality was consistent.  It was fun…unlimited peanuts in the shell and an invite to drop those shells to the floor (warning to those with peanut allergies).  The food was fresh and delish — I had pulled pork once and a remarkably tender and perfectly prepared sirloin on the other occasion.   The service was great — friendly, attentive wait staff, and a quality check at the end of the meal.

Above and beyond  the dining amenities, a notable plus for the budget wise is the list of 10 meals offered for 7.99 during the week for early diners. Hours vary by location.

All-in-all Texas Roadhouse is an enjoyable dining experience.  I have no complaints and look forward to my next visit, no matter where I may be.

Photo credit: BKM_BR

Flickr Photo Credit: Ninja Poodles

In almost any country we’ve ever been in, the following items have always been available. . .  Sliced bread, butter and cheese. Throw in some lunch meat and a slice of tomato . . . meal complete!

It may not be the fanciest meal option when sharing a hostel kitchen, but the ingredient list is minimal. This is particularly helpful when you are changing locations every other day and do not want to spend a large chunk of your daily travel budget on items you will need to leave behind. If you are looking for something more elaborate however, you can check here for more sandwich ingredient ideas.

Flickr Photo Credit: Moriza

With a huge loaf of French, Italian or similar type of bread and a selection of pot-luck filling options (peppers, sliced cheese, meats, condiments, etc.), this can make for a really fun gathering.

I was at a PTA meeting once where they did this. Everyone had a great time, and no one had to break from their budget goals. Add some fruit or other crunchy snack, some beverage options and paper products.

Your fellow travelers at the hostel will appreciate your throwing this evening activity together. Here are some additional sandwich ideas if you really feel like going the extra mile.

Have any pics or details from a dinner party you had on the road? We’d love to know about them.

This sandwich discussion was submitted to the September 23, 2009 edition of Wanderfood Wednesday.