Hot Dog Review: Chelsea's Kitchen

I want to take a minute to gossip about Chelsea. But, in the BEST way possible. Chelsea has a kitchen, in Arcadia, dangerously close to my house. And "she" serves the most amazing Quinoa Kale Salad that I have tried, even re-creating myself here. They also wave free sea salt chocolate chip cookies in your face as you walk out of the door. Chelsea's Kitchen is a gem of a restaurant, and I just can't seem to get enough.

I have dined here on multiple occasions, however I still haven't seemed to make my rounds all of the way around the menu. But I can tell you that everything I have had has been delicious, including the cocktails. Whoops? Whether you are enjoying a cozy date night in the main restaurant setting, or with a large group out on their oversized patio, the food and experience are sure to leave you with a smile.

For starters, the Smoked Idaho Trout Dip is fresh, cold, and smokey, served with traditional saltine crackers. It is something you won't find in any other restaurant in town, and not fishy in smell or taste. I also really enjoy the Tuna Tartare & Guacamole starter. Fresh ahi tuna, chopped and layered with fresh guacamolw is served with tortilla chips and is plenty to serve a table of 4.

Now, let's chat about larger plates. If you are craving something on the lighter side, I recommend their Tuna Sashini Salad, which contains fresh greens, freshly sliced ahi tuna, and a spicy ginger lime viniagrette. If you are not a big sushi fan, try out the ever popular Shredded Kale & Quinoa Salad, where you can add chicken, salmon, or ribeye for an additional cost. I can't say enough good things about this salad, but even the biggest carnivores will enjoy the fresh taste of this dish. It's so good, that Chelsea's even serves it as a side dish on all Taco Platter plates.

Speaking of tacos, I have had 4 of their 6 different taco platters. Their choices range from chicken mole, to short rib, to swordfish. Served with made to order tortillas, a roasted salsa, fresh tomato, and guacamole, they are simple, yet complex in flavor. I have to say that the swordfish is my absolute favorite. The texture is almost like chicken, but the hardwood grill adds such a great flavor to them.

Chelsea's Kitchen also offers a variety of burgers, for vegetarians and meat-eaters alike. And for those looking for a mighty meal, take a look at their entrees section, with Rotisserie Pork Carnitas, Filet Mignon, and Surf & Turf Platter. Just make sure you get a fresh pressed cocktail to wash it all down!

Let's start with their Famous White Sangira. Fresh cut fruit, with white wine, this is the perfect summer drink to take you back to cooler weather. My personal go-to cocktail is the "Cucumber Press". Simple, yet refreshing, this drink is pear vodka, St. Germain liquer, and muddled cucumber. It really goes with anything. They also have a great wine and beer selection as well.

I think that Chelsea's Kitchen deserves 5 out of 5 hot dogs in my eyes. It can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. You can enjoy some sunlight out on the front or back patios, or keep cool inside with a great view of the open kitchen and the bartenders moving and shaking. Just make sure you save room for a sea salt chocolate chip cookie or two!

**Images courtesy of hayesstudio.com