Yesterday's prediction was correct - we slept in until 10:30. We even missed our usual "Sunday Morning" program on TV.
Catherine, Charlotte's sister, called from Ottawa, ON called to say "Hi" late this morning. She has just switched phone service - same number; but, now using Internet instead of land line service. Warmer there today (low 50's F) with rain with a cold spell coming. Typical spring weather for Canada.
Another nice day here with partly cloudy skies and temps reaching the low 80's F.
Watched NHL hockey on TV - Detroit Red Wings (3) vs St. Louis Blues (0).
Unfortunately, our NHL hockey team, the Ottawa Senators didn't make the Stanley Cup playoffs this year. I am not sure who to pick for - it will be a series-by-series choice from here on in to the Finals. I will probably lean towards old favourites from the "original 6". (Montreal Canadians, Toronto Maple Leafs, Boston Bruins, Chicago Black Hawks, Detroit Red Wings, New York Rangers).
Naturally, we were too tired to cook after our busy day yesterday - (OK - it's an excuse) - so we took a round about "back roads" route to Cebiche and Tapas Peruvian Dining restaurant in Mt. Dora (almost). It is in Mt. Dora at 3301 N Hwy. 19A - just not downtown. This is a shame as we would have found it sooner were it on the "Main Drag".
Of course, I could not miss the opportunity to order an "Inca Kola" again. This drink is imported directly from Peru. The closest taste comparison would be similar to old-fashioned Cream Soda; but, a little different in taste and not so sweet. It was a nice change from the usual colas offered in restaurants.
We ordered Huancaina de Papao Yuca as an appetizer. Move over French Fries - this was way better! (Don't tell McDonald's or we will have to eat there. (grin) It is made from a yellow flesh potato similar to Yukon Gold. It is cut similar to zucchini slices and deep fried. The sauce is a combination of cheese, milk and Peruvian seasonings. Mild and tasty - Yum! The dish's name is derived from Huancayo, a city in the Peruvian highlands, where it originated. It has become a staple of everyday and holiday cuisine throughout the country.
For the main course we ordered Cau-Cau. This is a "Fusion Cuisine" (Chinese/Peruvian) made with chicken, black mint, yellow pepper and cubed (small) potatoes. I do not like mint(s) or mint chocolate; yet, this dish was delicious. Just goes to show what a good chef can do with seasonings and careful blending.
We could not leave without dessert since we had heard that it was delicious. We shared a Cream Voltiada, which literally means "upside down cream". It is a Peruvian version of Crème Caramel. Sweet and rich while at the same time being so light. This dessert is loved around the Peru, and, though it did not originate there, it is one of the most popular comfort foods in the country. Our source was correct - it was excellent.
Jorge offered a taste of Jarabe de Goma at the end of our meal. He is thinking of adding it to his menu selection. It is mixture of Sangria (wine); orange juices; a small slice of apple (cubed) and a sweetening syrup.
( I am not sure what sweetening syrup Jorge used - probably zucar morado, sold in the US and Canada as raw sugar. It is fairly coarse grained and contains enough molasses to make it slightly brown and give it a distinct taste. This is what you will find commonly used in Peru.) It would make a refreshing addition to the menu.
This family run eatery is new to the Mt. Dora restaurant scene this year. They are working hard to make it a success (Open for Lunch and Dinner - Tue-Sun). We certainly wish them success. We will be sure to visit again next year when we return to this area for the winter (Snowbirds, Eh!).
They say one should eat before going grocery shopping. Following that advice (we were stuffed) we left for our final destination of the afternoon - The Original Yalaha Bakery in Yalaha, FL. There is a second location in The Villages (in Summerfield, FL) and their great offerings are also available at various Central Florida Farmer's Markets. They are open daily from 8-5 so we had just enough time to make it before closing. (What else is new!)
They have a nice Deli area with inside and outdoor eating areas.
Live music is a regular happening on weekends and they can seat a hundred or more in the pretty, large (or is that large and pretty) OK - BOTH! (grin) patio area.
This bakery offers old world German breads and European cakes and pastries. We filled a box full of delicious looking pastries - one of each - which we will share over the next few days. At least that was the plan. The first pastry didn't last more than 5 minutes after our return to the Motorhome. It was worth the trip.
It was a nice relaxing day. Not too hectic or long. This gives us a chance to rest from the previous few days that were quite busy.
A quiet TV evening is in store (actually, in RV - another grin).
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