Mad Girl Eats The Purple Pig in Chicago

The Purple Pig, 500 N Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL.

With the words “Cheese, Swine, Wine” emblazoned across the entrance of The Purple Pig, I knew I was in for a thrill ride of a meal! The menu is filled with tapas fare, original dishes, concoctions of the “wild” side, a perfect place to step into bliss… instead of the ho-hum ordinary.

With a myriad of selections, I decide on the fried pig ears with crispy kale, pickled cherry peppers, and a beautiful sunny side up egg on top. Next, I dare to try their version of Chicago’s Italian Beef sandwich, made with pork heart and giardiniera. As requested, I received a tall glass of ice water and a lovely bottle of water also arrived. Nice touch, I do recognize and appreciate the details put forth.

The first to arrive was the pig’s ears. To my delight they were cut thin and fried, and resembled onion straws. Hallelujah, they were an incredible edible! The kale was crunchy good, the pickled cherry peppers had just enough vinegar to cut the richness of the rest of the dish. They bring you a large fork and spoon to break the egg yolk so it oozes all over, and toss it around a bit. Dang. The flavors and textures just sung in perfect harmony. Man, did I love this dish!

I was leery of the heart, but upon arrival it looked pretty damn tasty! Shaved pork heart (deli style), superb veggie giardiniera, all on an astounding crusty bread. Wow. I thought it may be minerally, or have a barnyard flavor, it didn’t. It actually tasted like corned beef. Delish!

I can’t swoon enough over this place! The menu, food, décor, service, ambiance, and it’s surroundings were spectacular in every way. I only hope I can return and try more creative delights they have to offer, sooner than later. The Purple Pig will definitely be added to my “Best Of” list. Brava!

http://thepurplepigchicago.com

5 out of 5 perfect piggy points.

 

Mad Girl Eats Tacos El Gordo in Vegas!

 

Tacos El Gordo on the Strip in Las Vegas. 3049 S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas, NV.

Found in a strip mall down the Vegas Strip from the Encore and Wynn properties, you will experience original Mexican tacos. Tacos El Gordo prides themselves on brining you fast and delicious Mexican cuisine straight out of TJ (Tijuana).  Real Mexican tacos, not the American version.

Deciding to try a few tacos outside of our comfort zone along with our faves.  Al Pastor, Beef brain, Beef tongue, Head, and Steak. Fresh, fantastic.  Don’t be afraid to try parts you normally don’t find in an Americanized taco joint. Brain, Tongue (my favorite of the “exotics” lol), Head meat. Trip your trigger, people! get the grilled veg when they ask. A delightful accompaniment.

There are 3 lines for ordering, so find the correct one according to meat filling choice.  A busy place, so you know it’s good.

A handful of tables indoors, or covered outdoor sidewalk seating available.

4.5 out of 5 Mexican Hat Dance worthy bites.