Saturday, January 7, 2023

Vacation day 29 of 30. Trip vacation day 5 of 6. Breakfast: similar to yesterday. Walked to and enjoyed Moorten Botanical Garden. Visited Kreem where Patrick got a scoop of salted chocolate ice cream in a cup with a sugar cone pointing out. Boxed lunches similar to yesterday: Patrick had the Standby (thinly sliced honey-glazed ham piled high, low-fat Alpine Lace cheese, lettuce, pepperoncini, tomatoes, honey mustard on New York rye swirl bread) with potato chips. I had the Hacienda (roasted chicken on nine-grain with pepper jack cheese and more) with potato salad. I sunned poolside while Patrick did some writing. While on my way returning to the room, I met and took a photo for Mark, Randy, Eder, and Britt. Rested in the room. Rode UberX to Blackbook. We walked the block then returned to Blackbook for a drink: Patrick had The Modernist (The Botanist Gin, Combier Rose, Grapefruit Bitters, Thai Basil), I had Queen of the Desert (Cazadores Reposado, Aperol, Fresh Lemon, Lime, and Orange Juices). Walked to dinner at French Miso Cafe (19 La Plaza): Wine: we each had a glass of cotes du rhone. I had the two-course prix fixe meal. Patrick had the three-course prix fixe meal. Appetizers: we shared the oven-roasted celeriac soup (creme fraiche and truffle honey) and the steamed Mediterranean mussels (coconut broth with a hint of curry and Thai basil). Entrees: Patrick had the prime top sirloin steak with potato gratin, broccolini, and Bernaise. I had oven-roasted chicken thighs with fingerling potatoes, haricots vert, and sweet garlic/porcini sauce. Dessert for Patrick (but we shared): chocolate mousse. All food and drink and service by John P were excellent. Rode UberX back to Santiago Resort.