Lucifer's Pizza | The Mad Greek | Drac Burger & Fries | Drac's Deviled Eggs | Red Devil Pizza | The Donut Hole | Jack's Pumpkin Spice Ale | Devil's Brew: Halloween Coffee | Graveyard Pie | Sabbath Cake | Trader Joe's | China Palace | Clearman's Northwoods Inn | Ray's Tepeyac | In 'N' Out Burger | Pizza Man | Little Caesar's Pizza | Garduno's Taco King | Mongolian BBQ
116 W Badillo St., Covina, CA 91723 (626) 966-4484 Located in artsy "Olde Towne" Covina, Red Devil Pizzeria is a pleasant establishment with a combination old world feel with new world comforts. Established in 1966, Red Devil Pizzeria & Ristorante features "real Italian New York style" pizza pies, as well as a variety of other wonderful traditional dishes, within their Family and Banquet Rooms. I was initially attracted by the smiling devil on the logo, having seen it from time to time when driving through this theatre and antique shoppe-near location, so I decided to finally enter. The screen door and creaking entrance was already a welcomed attraction, harking back to a 'mom & pop' restaurant, where the pizzas are made from scratch. Wait time is a mere twenty minutes, in which time one can indulge in pleasant conversation and enjoy the darkened surroundings, and if so inclined, the bar {wherein a variety of fine philtres are offered}, and wide-screen entertainment. Over one archway, the quote "Love Well, Eat Often, & Laugh Much" was a very nice touch as well. The delightfully large "Red Devil Special" is recommended, featuring a full combination multiple toppings dish, with red pepper and parmesan cheese option. Whether take out or eat in, the service is attentive and attractive {the pretty brunette wearing a form-fitting Red Devil shirt was a treat for the eyes as well}. Quiet, dim {natural light filtering in from the tinted windows during the day, intimate lighting at night}, and sparsely populated when I went, with a satisfyingly delicious repaste, I can say I thoroughly enjoyed My stay here.
The Donut Hole This venture takes us to... The Donut Hole! Open 24 hours, the resident "creatures of the night" can venture forth at any of the 'ungodly' hours of the evening for culinary pastry delights at leisure. This is a fanciful structure comprised of two giant donuts with a quote aptly stating "It's The Quality", wherein one may actually drive through the mystical "donut hole" hellmouth for sweet indulgence. Sort of reminds Me of the tram ride at Universal Studios as one is passing through the spinning tunnel - an amusing optical illusion. Established in 1956 c.e., The Donut Hole preserves a past {un}orthodoxy with character and quality in both service and luscious edibles. One can spot this landmark blocks away; a certain 'dominant mass', definitely asserting the 'lighthouse effect' upon the environment, complimenting the area with its aesthetic prominence. For the optimum experience, you do not even have to leave the comfort of your automobile while you drive up "Donut Lane" {there is an actual sign}, while the savory scent of these fresh confections fill the air with tempting olfactory delights. However, a walk-up window is also available for additional convenience. In addition, coffee, cocoa, and even soda are also offered to accompany your portion if so desired. One does their ordering to the left, while on the right, one may observe 'the works', as it were, showcasing a windowed room filled with several fantabulous donut-making contraptions. If one arrives at the right moment, one can even witness these delectable aliments being prepared right before your eyes. All sorts of imaginable donuts are offered therein, from crullers to bear claws to sprinkled and jelly-filled comestibles. Even the "donut holes" themselves! Whether for single consumption or sharing, dessert after a nutritious meal, for a brief "snackrifice" or sit-down enjoyment with a loved one and entertainment pleasure, the "Drac's dozen" is recommended*. The town I live in is a total environment in itself, as well as a time-warp, circa Noir and into the 50's. There are fully themed restaurants who place quite a bit of effort to present an illusion of authenticity from the culture cultivated, to the last remaining and preserved Drive-In Theatre in the area; to the In 'N' Out drive-thru where the attendants are attired in spotless white uniforms and elongated styled caps; to stylized establishments like The Donut Hole where I acquire My pastries from time to time, and actually did earlier this overcast morning. Sort of reminds Me of the tram ride at Universal Studios as one is passing through the spinning tunnel - an amusing optical illusion. So as one traverses through the hellmouth, there are so many delights to choose from - jelly-filled and glazed confections to tantalize the senses. I swear I once spotted a greaser-fight late one night while returning from a rendezvous - 50's model cars parked in a vacant lot with several white-shirted greaser types rallied around two others going at it fisticuffs... or did I only perceive this activity occurring... may this have been an impression from long ago? Quite charming, actually. Much of the music drifting in the air is frequently "the oldies" to add to the environment's quality. Well, as I was exiting the Donut Hole once, I spotted a white hearse with the "Buffy The Vampire Slayer" logo painted in red across the back. A fanatical Buffy fan? Or are film companies now paying people to carry their logos to advertise letharginator programs, like wearing a sign with "Eat At Joe's" written across it. Which is how I view print shirts advertising for bands like. As much as I may enjoy a particular band or film, I would not display it for the herd to see, but would more likely use it for pajamas, if anything.
Jack's Pumpkin Spice Ale I had the pleasure of picking up a six-pack of this seasonal version ale this evening, drawn primarily by the attractive art work thereon. It claims to be pumpkin-spice flavored, although It tastes like regular Michelob for the most part - the pumpkin flavor really comes in as an after-taste, but it is pretty good beer nonetheless, even though it is not My regular preference when it comes to the philtre. So if you decide to serve the ale, this may be an interesting aesthetic choice to add to the Halloween festivities.
Devil's Brew {Orange Mocha} Serving: One 16 oz. cup. Directions:
1. One envelope of hot chocolate {instant milk chocolate / cocoa}. I came upon this recipe quite by circumstance, and was delightfully surprised by what I found. To Me, it grants the impression of Autumn, ergo, "Halloween Coffee". I Am reminded of Orange Julius and their most intriguing logo, which is appropriate here.
Ingredients: Serves 6 -8.
* Mini pie crust {chocolate cookie crumble}. Directions:
1. Let pudding set in the refrigerator while crushing cookies. {I attest to the delectability of this confection - DB}.
While watching an episode of The Addams Family {Episode 15: "The Addams Family Meet A Beatnick"}, I thought of an interesting and amusing possibility for a special occasion cake that would include some splendid Satanic aesthetics: By utilizing a tube cake pan, mixing up whatever type and flavor is favored {I would personally recommend of course, Devil's Food Cake!}, with frosting, etc., and when prepared, finishing it off by inserting a black pillar candle in the center. Then, whatever the occasion is, a 'wish' may be uttered and/or thought of, and the candle either blown or snuffed. Another possibility would be writing out a parchment of one's wish, and again, either reciting it aloud or just quietly burned in the flame, followed by all manner of rejoicing. Would be wonderful for birthdays and Halloween! Now, there are several shapes and sizes, it can either be a round tube cake pan, or if you can find one, a trapezoidal design. The candle itself may be comprised of a figure candle representing the celebrated one {as with birthdays}; two figure candles representing bride and groom; for Halloween perhaps a skull or skeleton, or an otherwise appropriate character; and one in the shape of The Sabbatic Goat of Mendes for Walpurgisnacht, although that representation would pretty much work for any occasion. Additional ornamentation could include a pentagram thereon with the center pentagon holding the candle, to a serpent, to some Halloween bats, ghosts, pumpkins, spiders, cobwebs... whatever the imagination will produce. On a salacious side note, the candle and tube combination does sort of resemble the 'yoni' & 'lingam' joined...
In the past, an entirely trapezoidal cake was made for Me, with designs applied by Myself {i.e., a personal sigil and The Baphomet}, with candles placed at the points.
* Trader Joes, or "The Addams Family Food Shoppe": How I enjoy these forays to this alternative foode establishment, a veritable alienesque source of provisionary indulgences. Sparsely populated and roomy, open from 9am - 9pm, shelves filled with products from around the world, and with a pleasant atmosphere to boot, you won't find Coca-Cola, Cheetos, or Budweiser here, only choice and speciality items for the discerning palate.
* Trader Joe's Double-Cream Brie: Devilish soft cheese overwhelming the senses with waves of culinary bliss. Excellent on bagels, croissants, and crackers. Although earlier this evening I invented a new confection called a "Briezza" {pronounced "breetzah"} which consists of a pizza of your choice, with brie and avocado chunks added as an extra topping - it's magically devilicious! I purchased an entire brie wheel, considering that it shall be enjoyed for days to come. * Blackthorn Cider: I was compelled to pick up a 1 litre bottle of My namesake {sans the "e"} when I spied it displayed so majestically on the shelf - I thought it rather infernal providence, as it were, and might have regretted not purchasing it, so now it joins My collection of rare beverages along with the Logan Fils Absinthe. Trader Joe's Old Fashioned Cheesecake: A three-pound cheesecake delight stacked about 9" high. Its round surface will provide a perfect template for a Baphomet design. A photo will be provided when developed. * Trader Joe's Dark Chocolate covered Expresso Beans: Name says it all. Perfect for those late-day periods of work, and overall natural stimulant.
Restaurant Review - China Palace I always despise having to go out into the common world filled with the mediocre masses, but I had previously promised My friends that I would, being that it is a special occasion. The night was brisk & cool. This year's Yule Solstice feast occurred at a scrumptuous palace of gluttonous delights - China Palace. I had the smorgasborg meal, meaning that I just placed everything & anything that struck My fancy down on the plate. I accumulated copious amounts of sushi, egg rolls, chicken, ribs, lobster, oyster, & noodles - I didn't see any squid or octopus, though. They did manage to preserve quite a total environment therein, as one feel as though one is sitting in Emperor Wu's Dining Room. Ming-like Vases, lavishly decorated tapestries, statues of Buddha, as well as warriors here & there, made for an escapade into the culture's feudal period. The staff was attentive, especially the attention of one little chinese cutie who just kept staring at Me, & waiting on Me hand & foot. It was indeed flattering, for I noticed that she did not treat anyone else there with such consideration. Perhaps My MIng-like goatee & blackened countenance reminded her of her E.C.I.'s, in a Martial Arts fashion. All giggles & bows. I was accompanied by some friends & My companion. They managed to make one feel like a quite a king there. I had the whole side of a table, practically to Myself. It was quite an indulgent experience. Interesting to note, is that no-one treated Myself like some kind of stranger, like one would experience at J/C-based Western-oriented locations, in their fearful depiction of Satan. All was accepted, without a word. Perhaps the Satanic aesthetic shares a place with the culture's affinities. When I wrote "A Vision of God", I mentioned that in Oriental societies, the color black is associated with rulership & authority. From a white belt to a black belt, & so forth. It was also quite evocative there - it placed Me back in My childhood, when I was constantly surrounded with oriental culture, as it was reflected in My Martial Arts lifestyle. I found Myself perfectly acclimating to the environment, with the various gestures & customs - they all came back, I felt quite comfortable.
PROS: 1. Constant supply of cheese bread; 2. Endless supply of peanuts which can be casually thrown onto the floor; 3. Waitess' uniforms!; 4. Pacific North-West Total Environment; 5. Dimly lit.; 6. Hospitality and attentiveness; 7. Live entertainment when available.; 8. Intimate surroundings. CONS: 1. No arcade.: 2. No Al-Fresco option..; 3. Temperature could have been cooler to accentuate the theme. No matter where you reside, one can take refuge in this most comfortable total environment themed to The Pacific North-West complete with log-cabin styled architecture, icicles and frosty windows decorating the edifice. When one enters therein, it is pleasantly gloomy, with flickering amber candlelights gently illuminating the room. Hospitality is assured - polite attendants and waitresses; and one can scatter one's peanut shells about the floor as one wishes - there is even a stage in full view of it all. The dark wood walls display a polar bear, a moose head, darkly-tinted windows to keep out the sun if you happen to venture out after dawn. The repaste is exquisite - many meals to choose from, thick steaks, and an endless supply of cheese bread proliferates one's meal. The temperature is set a little warmer than I would prefer, but then again I Am quite literally hot-blooded. Highly recommended for your delight, this establishment dies not disappoint. Even the waitresses are attired in uniforms which are pleasing to the eye... and libido. Full home cooked-styled meals assure a lair-feel for those times you desire a fun evening out. Absolutely pleasant surroundings will not disrupt The Magical Mindset. There are four locations in the Southern California Area, as welcomed relief from the doldrum of the lightmare. A piano is stationed in the center of the room for anyone who chooses to play jaunty tunes of frivolity and revery to your heart's delight. SO go forth and enjoy thyself any time of year for culinary pleasure. This establishment is highly recommended for its ambience, delicious repaste, & themed environment.
Across the street from Guitar Center, Ray's Tepeyac is a pleasantly dark and sparsely populated establishment in more of a Spanish, rather than Mexican theme. An elegant and intimate environment with a constant flow of chips and salsa. The windows are tinted, which adds privacy, and most of all, the repaste is magnificent as well as plentiful, that you may find yourself taking some home with you. The service is top-par, with polite and attentive maitre d's. Excellent for quiet conversations and romantic encounters. Rating: 4/5.
Tonight I had some "In 'N' Out" take out, an establishment native to California, and noticed that there are actually bible reference numbers on some of the containers. She had previously notified Me that this has been an urban legend for decades, and a true one, and in My opinion, is in decidedly poor taste. Lucky for them that the confections are just so damned good. On a humorous vein, I remember seeing modified "In 'N' Out Burgers" stickers in High School on notebooks and even cars reading "In 'N' Out Urge". *More Information:
In 'N' Out
The Pizza Man Cometh Although they claim that they will deliver in 40 minutes, I Am delighted to say that they usually arrive within 20 minutes of calling, and the food just keeps getting better and better. The delivery man is very polite and quick on his toes, and the pizza is always piping hot. This is a reason why Pizza Man has become one of Our favorite eating services and comes highly recommended for parties or a quiet evening with the family.
Upon examining the mascot, we see that it is indeed a rendition of Nero Caesar, which, according to certain numerological calculations, adds up to nothing other than the dreaded 666, and has been named an "Antichrist" in history, for his persecution of Christians in and out of The Circus Maximus, and blaming them for his torching of that lovely kingdom of indulgence, Rome. And upon further consideration, he also resembles Napoleon, of all dictators, whose name has also been calculated to add up to the Number of The Beast; and who has also been considered an "Antichrist" by certain conspiracy theorists. And what does one see when contemplating his toga? Why, a 666 decoration! And what is that design which supposedly comprises his chest hair thereon? A mysterious "SOC"...what does this portend? Could it be "Satan Our Christ"? And even further evidence that Little Caesar's is satanic, what could be more obvious besides a 666? Look at his hand, his left hand at that, what is that he is signifying? The Devil's Sign! That's right {or left}, the two horns up as he munches a pizza slice which could very well represent a soul. Also notice how many pepperonis are marked upon the hellish stancheon he holds - nine of them! Yes, another number attributed to The Prince of Darkness! And the entire image is presented within a portal - could it be a portal to The Underworld? Observe the tiles {on the box} which would normally be placed upon the floor of the establishment - a veritable Portal to the Netherworld indeed. Yes, the great devilish conspiracies are still with us in a more covert form now, all throughout seemingly harmless societal icons from logos to mascots. Beware.
Absolutely luscious cuisine I have had the pleasure of indulging in many-a-time. The first course consists of egg-drop soup which I absolutely adore - I usually have at least two and sometimes three of these. This day I ordered a combination plate, which one has the fortune to actually observe being prepared with the culinary expertise of the resident chef who spreads your noodles and additional contents {spices, vegetables, etc} onto a large wok-like skillet with flames leaping about, licking around the edges, and is finally brought about to the table after one has concluded {for the time being} with one's egg-drop soup. This is particularly enjoyable to Me, considering that I have been partially raised in oriental culture, submerged in Martial Arts, so the evocations always fly when I dine in an Asian-oriented establishment. Rating: 4/5. Loses a point for the mild rudeness of one of the attendees.
With three locations in the Southern California area, I have to remark that this is to Me the absolute best in Mexican food.
My favorite to order here is always the 'wet' King Burrito {Chili Relleno or Machaca}, which just means that they cover the foot-long burrito in a plethora of sauce and cheese, and bring it to the table; although they do not prepare 'wet' King Burritos to go, just ordinary ones, for it would be far too messy in the car; I have been frequenting this establishment for several years, ever since I initially discovered this culinary treasure which was only a block down the street from the former Noctuary, where, always in the wee hours from between midnight and 5 am, I would enjoy a meal with a companion, and other times, just order their bag of chips special, which consisted of a large bag of tortilla chips with many little containers of their unique and irreplaceable salsa, and enjoy a movie or My "Satan tape", which consists of Speak of The Devil, Satanis, Exposing Satan's Underground, with various interviews with Satanists through the talk-show circuit. including Magister Rex Diabolos Church on The Montel Williams Show, Karla LaVey on the Ron Reagan Show, "un-daughter" Zeena {then-LaVey} on a morning show, Sgt. Randy Emon on Pace Setters and Inside Edition {featuring artwork and anecdotal relations by and about yours cruelly}, and others. And there were many instances when I just felt like an ice-cold strawberry-vanilla shake at 3 in the darkness.
Also available on the menu if you are so inclined, are "cessos" {brains}, "lengua" {tongue}, and a variation of "tripas" {intestines, usually prepared with menudo, which I also call "gut-soup"}. Experiencing Garduno's is like immersing oneself in the ancient Aztec Indian culture and subsequent Spanish integration.
Rating: 5/5 Goat skulls bobbing in the cauldron.
* Related: Hell's Bar & Grill. Recipes & Ghoulinary delights.
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