Tag Archives: Business

Cocohodo – Tasty Retreat

23 Wednesday Oct 2013

Posted by in Bakery, Food, Korean Food

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Sometimes simplicity is best. When it comes to these tasty little treats that the store called Premium Walnut Cookies, it certainly does not get any simpler.

The store sells just one main product (not counting the coffee and tea selections)- Hodo Kwaja.  These are small walnut shape cookies filled with sweet red bean paste and walnuts. When I first tried these pastries, it was over ten years ago, and I had bought them from a Korean supermarket. At that time, I thought the little pastries were just alright, perhaps a bit too sweet.

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The walnut pastries at Cocohodo are definitely many grades better than the ones at the supermarket. The red bean paste inside as well as the outer cake portion have just the right, small amount of sweetness that I prefer, and with the soft crunch of the walnut, the pastry came together quite harmonious without feeling heavy.

I ordered a special which included a cup of coffee and four pieces of walnut pastries for around $3.5. One could choose either regular or hazelnut flavored coffee. My friend and both decided that the hazelnut coffee was probably one of the smoothest, most flavorful coffee that we have ever tried. It was so good even without any cream, milk, nor sugar. The walnut pastries were individually wrapped and came in a contemporary ceramic white bowl, which made it easy to share with others without having to use any utensils.

The atmosphere inside this small store is very peaceful, modern, with huge windows are around. I felt so comfortable and relaxed sipping my coffee and looking out at the passing cars.

I was told that the store features art work from local artist at one corner of room. One can also buy these pastries either in gift bags or gift boxes and the prices are reasonable.

I will definitely come back the next time I want to having a relaxing chat with friends, while enjoying great coffee and a small treat.

Cocohodo – 2734 Hawthrone Blvd. Torrance, CA 90505  

http://cocohodo.co.kr/coco_e/1_1.html

Snacks and Beyond – TJ

25 Sunday Aug 2013

Posted by in American Food, Food, Lifestyle, Markets, Uncategorized

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A friend and I, whenever we are in the mood for something good to snack on that are both delicious and not too junky, we would head over to our trusty spot – Trader Joe’s.

Aside from being a fun place to shop for foods, I like the fact that the store is not too big, which makes it easier and more efficient to find items that I would like to buy. Of course, another big reason for my friend and I to go is the “free coffee” and “free samples”.

In my opinion, the coffee, with a choice of fresh cream that is served there tastes much better than some of the famous coffee houses.

Let’s start with the decadent “snacks”. My son’s favorite is the super delicious “Crispy Crunchy Chocolate chip Cookies”, mini cookies that not only are filled with loads of tiny chocolate chips but has a exquisite fragrant coconut taste that is not to found elsewhere. Then there are the divine frozen treats such as the “Mini Mint Ice Cream Mouthfuls”, tiny size “Ice Cream cones”, and Ice Cream Mochi, all of which are flavorful, in addition to the sweetness.

My favorite is the selections of organic fruits and vegetables. They are reliable and consistently fresh. I especially enjoy the organic cherry tomatoes that are pop-in-your-mouth fresh and perfectly sweet. The last time I was there, there were the most beautiful figs, firm and luscious. The organic apples, bananas, pears are my staples there.

The organic Oatmeal here tastes better that the famous Quaker Oats. My son and I prefer the Trader Joe’s O’s cereal over the Cheerios brand. The O’s are puffier and not as brown and hard.

I use the Organic Chicken Drumstick to make “Soy Sauce Chicken” for my son which he kindly says is one of the best. The price is relatively non-expensive for $1.99 per lb.

The different selections of nuts are quite extensive here with various varieties in either salted, or non-salted. I also found an instant noodle that has no MSG nor any artificial ingredients that my son actually likes.

The fresh flowers and plants are always colorful and plentiful. The mini orchid is comparatively cheaper than most places and usually come in a pretty ceramic pot. One can also get different varieties of herbs in a pot.

My favorite sparkling water so far is the “Blu Italy Sparkling Natural Mineral Water” with a lemon and lime taste, so refreshing with ice.

See Trader Joe’s Website for various locations in your area.

http://www.traderjoes.com/

Koreatown Galleria Market- Fun Shopping

14 Friday Jun 2013

Posted by in Bakery, Food, Korean Food, Lifestyle, Markets

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It might seem extreme that sometimes I would end up going anywhere from three to five different markets in one day just to get everything I want for that day. Since I live within 5 miles from the major supermarkets, as well as smaller or specialty markets such as Trader Joe’s, Whole Foods, Sprouts, Market World,  it is not too difficult for me to visit a few of them in one trip.  Actually, I must confess that the real reason for visiting the different markets is that I truly enjoy looking at all the delectable food items, and I get excited trying new food products.

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Aside from usual markets that I go to almost daily, I would make it a point to visit the Koreatown Galleria Market whenever I am in that area for a meal. The freshness of the fruits and vegetables is one of the major reason why it is so appealing for me. The prices in the produce department seem very reasonable and even low at times, compared to some of the Chinese markets. The Persian and the pickling varieties of the cucumbers are always on sale and always firm and fresh. The Asian pears in boxes look huge and blemish free. The apples are good but the prices fluctuate quite a bit. I like the fact that the market feels really clean, airy and organized.

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Being that my son loves to add these seasoned dried seaweeds to his food, there are plenty of sizes and varieties to choose from here. There is a wide selection of banchan here that one can purchase in whatever amount desired since it is self served. The Gimbap here somehow taste better than some of the other ones I tried elsewhere.

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Another propelling factor to go to the Galleria Market is that the Cake House, a Korean bakery, is located right across the market. The pastries and breads, though not as spectacular as some of other places that I frequent, are definitely not lacking in varieties, which makes it more fun to pick and choose from.

As a side note, there is an Eyewear shop on the second floor that I find to have the best and latest styles of frames and sunglasses for those who use them. Even though I don’t wear glasses, I find the vast selection of trendy styles to be inspiring to look at.

Koreatown Galleria: 3250 W. Olympic Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90006  Phone: (323) 733-6000