Derek Timm is the Host of 'Small Bites Radio' The #1 Listed Food Radio Show Philadelphia & South Jersey on Simplecast, iHeartRadio, Player FM, iTunes, Spotify, Pandora, Audible, Amazon Music, and many more distribution partners.
Small Bites Radio has been named Top Hospitality Shows on the Planet from 2020 – 2023, #Bluejeanfood.com named Top Philadelphia Lifestyle Blogs, Websites & Influencers from 2021-2023, Best Philly Food Blogs and Websites 2023, and nominated by Metro Philly Newspaper 2022 and 2023 Best of Philadelphia Arts & Entertainment.
This is one of the old school Italian restaurants that just works perfectly. The food was fantastic and the service was superb. Also the prices are very reasonable for the huge portions. I had the chicken scarpiello with sausage and potato. Come hungry because it’s A LOT of food and they have their own parking lot which is a plus since parking is at a premium and scarce around the area.
As usual don’t forget to listen to the #1 listed “Food Radio Show Philadelphia” and the #1 listed “Food Radio Show South Jersey” Small Bites Radio.. For list or guests who have appeared on the show and more information click below:
Small Bites Radio has been named Top Hospitality Shows on the Planet from 2020 – 2023, #Bluejeanfood.com named Top Philadelphia Lifestyle Blogs, Websites & Influencers from 2021-2023, Best Philly Food Blogs and Websites 2023, and nominated by Metro Philly Newspaper 2022 and 2023 Best of Philadelphia Arts & Entertainment.
This wouldn’t be the first place on my mind to think about cheesesteaks by their name. Well don’t be fooled, they are putting out a fantastic cheesesteak that is better than most and deserves to be mentioned among the big names. The roll held up well, they piled on meat that was perfectly cooked and seasoned, and the cheese was mixed in and plentiful. It was a delight to eat. A side of fries is included and were good for free.
As usual don’t forget to listen to the #1 listed “Food Radio Show Philadelphia” and the #1 listed “Food Radio Show South Jersey” Small Bites Radio:
Small Bites Radio has been named Top Hospitality Shows on the Planet from 2020 – 2023, #Bluejeanfood.com named Top Philadelphia Lifestyle Blogs, Websites & Influencers from 2021-2023, Best Philly Food Blogs and Websites 2023, and nominated by Metro Philly Newspaper 2022 and 2023 Best of Philadelphia Arts & Entertainment.
Any real estate agent will tell you location, location, location. Watch ‘Field of Dreams’ and you’ll hear if you build it, they will come. Sweet Amalia Market and Kitchen is a mix of both. Lisa Calvo bought the former Petrini’s Market which was being used as a middle point distribution center to keep her farm’s oysters to store, prep, and stay fresh on their way to their final destination from Cape May to restaurants all around the area due to the location. She then realized that if you build it, they will come and build it she did indeed into an amazing restaurant and market by joining forces with investor Ed Pappas and bringing Chef Melissa McGrath to curate the menu. The news was spreading with press from the likes of NPR, Edible, Philly, Foobooz, Women’s Work, Philadelphia Magazine, Philadelphia Inquirer, and being nominated by James Beard Foundation 2023 Semi-finalist Best Chef Mid-Atlantic. All the accolades are well deserved. This place is amazing! Whether you are coming or going to the Jersey Shore it is a great pit spot. Heck it is worth the drive just to visit this place without even thinking about the beach. It was my first time there, but it certainly won’t be my last. I enjoyed a half dozen of their Sweet Amalia Oysters, Grilled Sweet Amalias with smoked chili and scallion butter, steamed clams with green chorizo, shaved zucchini, white wine and garlic, Fried Delaware Bay Oysters which were hands down the BEST fried oyster I have ever eaten, cup of clam chowder with bacon, celery, potatoes, cream & hot sauce, fresh cut french fries cooked and seasoned perfectly, basil lemonade to drink, Fresh Jersey Peach salad, and roasted white corn on the cob with tomato butter & Parmesan that was out of this world. They are only open seasonally so be sure to get there before it’s on your list of things to do in 2024. Just things of note are no reservations, it is an open air market and restaurant so be weather aware, seating first come first served, and parking is tight and limited.
As usual don’t forget to listen to the #1 listed “Food Radio Show Philadelphia” and the #1 listed “Food Radio Show South Jersey” Small Bites Radio.. For list or guests who have appeared on the show and more information click below:
Irwin’s Upstairs at the Bok Building – Philadelphia, PA
Small Bites Radio has been named Top Hospitality Shows on the Planet from 2020 – 2023, #Bluejeanfood.com named Top Philadelphia Lifestyle Blogs, Websites & Influencers from 2021-2023, Best Philly Food Blogs and Websites 2023, and nominated by Metro Philly Newspaper 2022 and 2023 Best of Philadelphia Arts & Entertainment.
The Bok Building is a historic and iconic structure located in South Philadelphia. The building’s architecture is a mix of Art Deco and Modernist styles, showcasing its rich history and unique design. It features a distinct tower with large vertical windows, giving it a grand and imposing presence in the neighborhood. Iit houses artist studios, coworking spaces, offices for startups and businesses, event venues, and a rooftop bar called Bok Bar and Irwin’s with stunning views of the Philadelphia skyline. You can also have a dinner and a show as the Bok Building is one of the locations you can enjoy Candlelight: Classic Rock on Strings by Fever Productions and performed by Listeso String Quartet.
Dining at Irwin’s is an expression of Modern Sicilian Cuisine. In their first year open Esquire named Irwin’s as one of the Best New Restaurants in America and a year later Bon Appetit recognized Irwin’s as one of the top 10 Best New Restaurants. There is a good reason for this as dining at Irwin’s is an experience unlike many other places in Philadelphia. The plus side is that the service is extremely friendly and attentive while the food was delicious as well. I enjoyed a cocktail of Sicilian 47 which is Amara, Gin, Tart Cherry Shrub, Lime, and Sparkling Wine, their version of tomato pie, fritto misto, orecchiette with zucchini and bottarga, spaghetti alle Vongole, and ½ of an Agrodolce chicken. After your meal, another highlight is that it’s just a short stroll across the hall to enjoy the Bok Bar.
As usual don’t forget to listen to the #1 listed “Food Radio Show Philadelphia” and the #1 listed “Food Radio Show South Jersey” Small Bites Radio.. For list or guests who have appeared on the show and more information click below:
Small Bites Radio has been named Top Hospitality Shows on the Planet from 2020 – 2023, #Bluejeanfood.com named Top Philadelphia Lifestyle Blogs, Websites & Influencers from 2021-2023, Best Philly Food Blogs and Websites 2023, and nominated by Metro Philly Newspaper 2022 and 2023 Best of Philadelphia Arts & Entertainment.
This place is just delightful and great. The star of the menu is undoubtedly their biscuits. These fluffy, homemade delights are baked to perfection, with a golden crust and a soft, buttery interior that practically melts in your mouth. The friendly staff creates a warm and welcoming environment, making guests feel right at home. Whether you’re stopping by for a hearty breakfast, a leisurely brunch, or a cozy lunch, Blair Mountain Biscuit Co offers a delightful dining experience that celebrates the flavors of the South. I really enjoyed the hot chicken biscuit as the chicken was cooked perfectly, juicy, and flavorful as it is fried chicken dipped in Cayenne Butter sauce, with Ranch. Slaw and pickles on the side. The fries were delicious and a surprise was the really tasty house made sausage patty which is a pork and chicken blend with herbs, spices, and Maple syrup. You really should visit. My only wish would be that they would be open later, but if you can get there it’s worth the journey.
As usual don’t forget to listen to the #1 listed “Food Radio Show Philadelphia” and the #1 listed “Food Radio Show South Jersey” Small Bites Radio.. For list or guests who have appeared on the show and more information click below:
Small Bites Radio has been named Top Hospitality Shows on the Planet from 2020 – 2023, #Bluejeanfood.com named Top Philadelphia Lifestyle Blogs, Websites & Influencers from 2021-2023, Best Philly Food Blogs and Websites 2023, and nominated by Metro Philly Newspaper 2022 and 2023 Best of Philadelphia Arts & Entertainment.
This place is just fun and delicious. The decor and ambiance is sleek, robot servers cute, and witnessing the dumplings being made exciting to watch. The food is fabulous as well. Even with the restaurant buzzing with patrons the service was quick and efficient and quality didn’t suffer as everything was tasty and flavorful. The unexpected highlight of a dish was the pork and veggie wontons in spicy peanut sauce. Close behind were the amazing Nan Xiang Soup Dumplings and braised beef spicy noodle soup. The pan fried pork buns and scallion pancake with sliced beef were no slackers either and very good. Highly recommend a visit here.
As usual don’t forget to listen to the #1 listed “Food Radio Show Philadelphia” and the #1 listed “Food Radio Show South Jersey” Small Bites Radio.. For list or guests who have appeared on the show and more information click below:
Classic Ecuador and Amazon Adventure with Culinary Delights – 2023
Small Bites Radio has been named Top Hospitality Shows on the Planet from 2020 – 2023, #Bluejeanfood.com named Top Philadelphia Lifestyle Blogs, Websites & Influencers from 2021-2023, Best Philly Food Blogs and Websites 2023, and nominated by Metro Philly Newspaper 2022 and 2023 Best of Philadelphia Arts & Entertainment.
Ecuador is about the size of the state of Colorado, yet this mesmerizing country nestled in the heart of South America captivated me with its rich biodiversity, vibrant culture, and awe-inspiring landscapes. A visit here offers an enchanting blend of natural wonders, rich history, and warm hospitality. Ecuador is a gateway to a world of diverse experiences from bustling cities, majestic Andes Mountains, lush Amazon rainforest, and everywhere you look around just amazing scenery. Ecuador is a hidden gem that promises an unforgettable experience.
One of the areas that Ecuador excels at is their extraordinary array of natural wonders that will leave any traveler in awe. The Andes Mountains provide a breathtaking backdrop, with snow-capped peaks, picturesque valleys, and charming traditional villages. Adventurers can indulge in thrilling activities such as hiking, mountain biking, and climbing, ziplining, and more. If that isn’t enough, the Amazon rainforest is a paradise waiting to be explored. Immerse yourself in the dense jungle where vibrant wildlife, exotic plants, and indigenous communities coexist. The Amazon Rainforest with its unrivaled biodiversity allows you to connect with nature on a whole new level with exotic wildlife and its intricate ecosystem.
Ecuador’s rich indigenous heritage and vibrant cities provide an immersive cultural experience. In Quito, the country’s capital, you can explore the well-preserved historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and marvel at its colonial architecture. Otavalo, renowned for its indigenous market, allows you to interact with locals, purchase traditional crafts and other goods at great prices (be sure to haggle how much you want to pay), and witness their colorful customs. The warmth of the Ecuadorian people will make you feel welcome everywhere you go.
As hard as it could be to believe after everything that I’ve already mentioned, one of the highlights to me was the amount of culinary delicacies at every turn. Ecuadorian cuisine is a delightful fusion of flavors, showcasing the country’s diverse culinary heritage. From the mouthwatering ceviche made with freshly caught seafood and was told that Ecuadorian ceviche is cooked seafood not raw and if it’s not cooked seafood it’s not a true Ecuadorian ceviche, to the traditional hearty soup called locro de papa (Ecuadorian Potato Soup), my taste buds were in constant awe. I also savored the famous Ecuadorian chocolate and indulged in many other exquisite Andean treats along my journey.
Whether you’re seeking adrenaline-pumping activities or more leisurely pursuits, this country has it all. I do have to admit that none of this would have been possible without Wilson Bernardo Tituaña Sánchez. He is one of the greatest guides and local fixers I have ever had the pleasure to get to know. From his knowledge of the Amazonian Rainforest and the native people, to his discipline and grit due to being in the Ecuadorian Special Forces, he makes sure everyone is safe, happy, educated, and well taken care of during your visit with him. I didn’t have any expectations before my visit, but I will forever be grateful for seeing and experiencing this wonderful country called Ecuador.
Sounds good doesn’t it? Well if you decide to go below are some of the places I enjoyed some delicious meals and experiences.
La Casa del Suizo – (Amazon Rainforest) La Punta, Ecuador
La Casa del Suizo is a lodge located in the Amazon jungle. It is a popular destination for those who want to experience the beauty and nature of the Amazon region on the banks of the Napo River, one of the main tributaries of the Amazon River. It offers a variety of activities from exploring the unique flora and fauna, hikes through the jungle, canoeing on the rivers, visits to local indigenous communities, bird watching, fishing, and much more. The lodge is comfortable, the pool is great, and you can try local foods when they have an Amazon Cooking demonstration of the giant beetle grubs, locally caught fish, fruits, and vegetables.
Casa de Piedra at Samari Spa Resort – Banos, Ecuador
Samari Spa Resort is a 4 hectare ranch with beautiful gardens and 300 years of history. It formerly belonged to the Jesuit community and has maintained the old architecture, built with exquisite colonial taste combining carved stone, wood, stained glass and wrought iron. Rustic details, good taste and nature combine to make this resort a true art gallery.
Casa de Piedra, the resort’s restaurant, offers each dish containing selected organic ingredients from the resort’s own garden, a sublime experience of flavors. The wine cellar with a varied selection of wines and a tavern full of history complement the Samari Experience. I enjoyed their Locro de los Andes, Maito de Pescado, and Medallón de res.
Pumamaki Restaurant at Termas de Papallacta – Baeza, Ecuador
Termas Papallacta owns the so-called ¨Rancho del Cañón¨, a protected area of around 200 hectares, located at the entrance of the Cayambe-Coca National Park. It’s an amazing drive and view of the Andes to get here. Not only is the food great, but Termas de Papallacta has natural hot springs with eight thermal baths and two cold pools with a great spa or public area that you can choose to enjoy. For my meal I had the filet mignon that hit the spot to fill my belly in the high altitude as the resort sits close to 11,000 feet high in elevation.
Restaurant Inty Huasi at Otavalo Market – Otavalo, Ecuador
One of the things that people make sure to do is to visit Otavalo Market, also known as Plaza de los Ponchos and Centenario Market run by the Kichwa Otavalo people and their world famous crafts. You can walk around the market seeing bright colored fabrics, crafts, and everything else you might want or need. After you tire yourself out from all the shopping and build up and appetite, a great choice for an amazing meal at fabulous prices is Restaurant Inty Huasi. For only $18, I devoured their Tomahawk Steak topped with grilled shrimp. Yes, I said only $18!!!! Even if you don’t buy anything at the market, you should stop by here just for the meal.
Restaurante Balcon al Mundo – Quito, Ecuador
Ciudad Mitad del Mundo is a popular destination for anyone in Quito. Visitors can stand on the Equator, with one foot in the Northern Hemisphere and the other in the Southern Hemisphere. You can also balance an egg on a nail without having to hold it and weigh a kilo less than in other places. They have built an attraction area Middle of the World City with museums, shops, and restaurants. I dined at Restaurante Balcon al Mundo and really enjoyed their potato soup and garlic shrimp entree. Great views in the dining area and service was quick and friendly.
Restaurante Papagayo Cotopaxi at Hosteria Papagayo – Machachi, Ecuador
A visit here you will enjoy the flower gardens, or a chance to simply enjoy nature and the natural surroundings with a small farm and animals surrounding the property. I enjoyed their chicken soup and stewed goat with rice and veggies.
Restaurant Pedro Freile at Hacienda Pinsaqui – Otavalo, Ecuador
This place has been around for 300 hundred years. The restaurant is located where the first owners originally lived and represents everything that this old colonial house means. Its large windows allow the entry of the heat of the sun and the sound of the chirping of the birds in the gardens. You will feel how the elegant hand-carved furniture and the pieces of art harmonize the environment together with the predominant white color on the thick adobe walls that generates the perfect balance to taste the menu.
Cafe Colibri – Banos, Ecuador
What a fun place this cafe was to find. Café Colibrí shares its space with the Work of the renowned bañeño painter Edguin Barrera so it’s an art exhibit, cafe, and garden all mixed together. The drinks were fantastic and the ambiance you have to visit to experience. Highly recommend a visit if ever in Banos and need to chill for a few minutes.
Café Colón by Hilton Colón – Quito, Ecuador
Cafe Colon is located in La Mariscal district, Quito’s bustling commercial and tourist Avenida Amazonas. It also sits across from El Ejido Park home to a nightly craft market, Casa de la Cultura Museum and Plaza Foch close by, and just 15 minutes from Quito old town a UNESCO World Heritage Site peppered with colonial architecture. Cafe Colon Restaurant opened in 1968, and the restaurant has garnered a reputation for its exemplary Ecuadorian cuisine and is popular with locals of all generations, many who come for the famous traditional Ecuadorian ceviche. With a buffet available at breakfast and lunch, and a menu throughout the day, the TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence-winning restaurant also serves international classics. Everything I had was top notch. Enjoyed their chicken soup, grilled shrimp with mushrooms and potatoes, and ice with fresh fruit.
Donde Ivan Restaurant – Banos, Ecuador
A little off the main path and down an alley from their hotel you will find the restaurant. It is a simple location, but with very friendly staff. The lunch was basic but yummy. Had their grilled chicken.
Paradero La Avelina – Cotopaxi, Ecuador
You can’t enjoy a trip to somewhere you’ve never been without partaking in some of their local snacks and treats. Well I enjoyed some pistachio ice cream, a las tradicionales tortillas de maiz that were out of this world amazing, Las Cayambeñitas which is an artisan delicacy of high quality milk with an exquisite flavor from the city of Cayambe that you use to top Bizcocha cookies to make them one of the greatest cookies ever, and Pacari Chocolate founded in Quito and they work directly with more than 3500 small-scale farmers without intermediaries and transparency giving them fair prices for their product while also sharing knowledge about organic and biodynamic processes, which allow them to obtain a better product while taking care of their piece of land.
Small Bites Radio has been named Top Hospitality Shows on the Planet from 2020 – 2023, #Bluejeanfood.com named Top Philadelphia Lifestyle Blogs, Websites & Influencers from 2021-2023, Best Philly Food Blogs and Websites 2023, and nominated by Metro Philly Newspaper 2022 and 2023 Best of Philadelphia Arts & Entertainment.
A tiny little spot, but serving large personality. Just be aware GPS may take you to the wrong location. They are located next to Anthony Simon Jewelers. I had their jerk chicken with cabbage and rice and peas. One of the highlights was the friendly service. They couldn’t have been more welcoming. The food was lower on the spice profile than other Jamaican destinations around, but it was still an enjoyable meal. I would be interested to try a few other choices on their menu and visit again next time in the area.
As usual don’t forget to listen to the #1 listed “Food Radio Show Philadelphia” and the #1 listed “Food Radio Show South Jersey” Small Bites Radio.. For list or guests who have appeared on the show and more information click below:
Small Bites Radio has been named Top Hospitality Shows on the Planet from 2020 – 2023, #Bluejeanfood.com named Top Philadelphia Lifestyle Blogs, Websites & Influencers from 2021-2023, Best Philly Food Blogs and Websites 2023, and nominated by Metro Philly Newspaper 2022 and 2023 Best of Philadelphia Arts & Entertainment.
If you blink you could miss your turn for Legacy Diner. It may be a tiny driveway, but it is well worth a visit if you live or are around the area needing something to eat. They are a quality Jersey diner with decent service, good prices, and a tasty meal. I had their prime rib special with sauteed string beans and mashed potatoes with gravy. Everything was above average and would definitely visit here again.
As usual don’t forget to listen to the #1 listed “Food Radio Show Philadelphia” and the #1 listed “Food Radio Show South Jersey” Small Bites Radio.. For list or guests who have appeared on the show and more information click below:
Small Bites Radio has been named Top Hospitality Shows on the Planet from 2020 – 2023, #Bluejeanfood.com named Top Philadelphia Lifestyle Blogs, Websites & Influencers from 2021-2023, Best Philly Food Blogs and Websites 2023, and nominated by Metro Philly Newspaper 2022 and 2023 Best of Philadelphia Arts & Entertainment.
AXO is one of South Jersey’s hottest places right now. They are well known for their street corn and beef birria tacos. The beef is marinated in a rich and aromatic blend of spices, including chili peppers, garlic, cumin, oregano, and other seasonings and then slow-cooked until it becomes tender and easily shredded. The slow cooking process allows the meat to absorb all the flavors of the marinade, resulting in a savory and delicious flavor in addition this cooking process provides a dipping sauce or consommé. This flavorful broth is made by straining the cooking liquid from the beef stew, resulting in a rich and concentrated broth. The tacos are then dipped into the consommé before taking a bite, adding an extra layer of flavor and moisture to the taco. The tacos were filled to brim with cheese and served with traditional accompaniments chopped onions, cilantro, wedge of lime, radish, and cucumber slice. The combination of tender beef, flavorful spices, and the dipping consommé make these tacos a truly satisfying and mouthwatering culinary experience. The Mexican street corn, also known as “elote,” is a popular and delicious street food dish originating from Mexico. It consists of grilled or boiled corn on the cob that is then coated with a variety of flavorful toppings. Mexican street corn is famous for its combination of sweet, savory, tangy, and spicy flavors. AXO’s version is a tasty one and I enjoyed the corn. The beef birria egg roll was pretty good as well. I would certainly return to AXO to try some more things on their menu.
As usual don’t forget to listen to the #1 listed “Food Radio Show Philadelphia” and the #1 listed “Food Radio Show South Jersey” Small Bites Radio:
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