No Problemo es Muy Bueno
Looking for a place to get some quality food on a college budget? Well, look no further than the heart of New Bedford. It is here you will find No Problemo, an Americanized Mexican restaurant owned by a group of twenty something skaters. No Problemo provides a refreshing, laid back atmosphere, quality service, and exceptional meals; all aspects of this restaurant are sure to make you a repeat customer only after one visit.
No Problemo is separated into two rooms; one is for takeout and the other dine in. The take out is a great addition to the restaurant if you are only looking to grab a quick bite. For those looking for a sit down meal, as you enter the dining room you will be immediately aware of the relaxed vibe and youthful staff. This spot is seemingly geared towards a younger crowd, but, during the course of our meal many different types of groups all entered the restaurant. Included in this group was a family of four with two young children, only solidifying that this establishment was family friendly in addition to modern and youthful.
The menu itself appears to be somewhat limited. Tacos, burritos, and quesadillas are the main items offered with a few other options such as taquitos, tortas, and salads; the good thing is there is something for everyone. The plain Jane will enjoy it and so will the person who seeks a little more spice.
Making a decision from the menu was difficult because everything looked appealing. In a last minute decision I decided to go with the spicy BBQ quesadilla. Chicken, chipotle BBQ sauce, red onions, and cheese in a flour tortilla served with sour cream, salsa, and jalapenos on the side (and guacamole if you so desire for only $.75 more). The first thing I noticed when the food came out was the enormous portion size and the aroma of sweet caramelized onions with a hint of tangy BBQ sauce.
My first bite was even more pleasing than the aroma. The chicken was shredded allowing it to fit well in the quesadilla; it didn’t overpower the rest of the ingredients or cause the quesadilla to fall apart and it mixed flawlessly with the sweet BBQ sauce, cheese, and onions. The tortilla was fresh, soft and fluffy, which only enhanced the fluid consistency and soft, yet substantial texture of the rest of the ingredients. Combined with fresh salsa, smooth sour cream, and seemingly buttery guacamole this meal was enough to fill me up, give me some leftovers for later, and the best part: at only $6.25 my wallet wasn’t empty after.
The group of people I went with all agreed their meals were large portions, quality food, and affordable prices. My roommate got a tostada salad with the cilantro lime dressing and said it was incomparable. She described the dressing as light, sweet, and a little tangy; a little taste of summer on this cold spring evening. For any lady (or man!) watching their figure this salad is a great option to replace the higher calorie meals.
In addition to great food the service was exceptional. Our waiter was appropriately friendly and quite attentive; he answered all of our questions and retrieved our drinks and food promptly. He mentioned the selection of beers (ranging from PBR to Coronas) and even recommended the red sangria, which was made faultlessly and wasn’t too overpowered with wine like it so often is.
After reflecting on the dining experience at No Problemo it seems the only thing missing from this restaurant is margaritas! Seriously, they can make do without offering margaritas because they have established a well-run, high quality company with exceptional service and affordable and divine cuisine. College students and families alike will find that No Problemo is a place they certainly won’t want to wait too long before they return.
813 Purchase Street
New Bedford, MA 02740
Target Publication: Torch (Umass Dartmouth Newspaper)
Apr 22, 2010
Apr 15, 2010
Theatre Review
The Odd Couple: A Timeless and Enduring Duo
Neil Simon’s The Odd Couple prevails today as a true American classic. The most recent rendition of The Odd Couple maintains that stature as it is recreated masterfully under the direction of Curt Columbus and Michael Gennaro. Currently playing at the Trinity Repertory Company in Providence, Rhode Island this play is a leading example that simplistic aesthetic and quality acting can still combine to create a timeless work that resonates with modern times.
The Trinity Rep is a great location for the newest adaptation of The Odd Couple. The venue itself holds only a few hundred people creating an intimate experience. Walking in you are greeted by a smiling staff and welcomed by a well lit, charming lobby. As you make your way to your seats you are only further entranced by the quaintness of the venue. What makes this enjoyable is that the mood is relaxed and informal, the perfect combination for someone who is only focused on a night of quality entertainment.
We all know the story; two men from complete opposite ends of the spectrum, a neat freak and a slob, both of whom have separated from their wives become roommates. Through dialogue, costume, mannerisms, subtle gestures and expressions the audience is able to see the contrasting difference between the two main characters. Their natural ability to fit their roles only enhances the sharpness and quality of the play itself. The cast fits their characters flawlessly and their chemistry is undeniable. Fred Sullivan, Jr. plays Oscar Madison opposite Brian McEleney as Felix Ungar.
Oscar (Sullivan) enters the stage (set up as his messy New York City apartment) in wrinkled khakis, an unbuttoned shirt, a Yankees cap, a tray full of beers and food for his poker buddies (minus Felix who hasn’t shown up and has never missed a game). It’s only a few minutes before the supposedly missing Felix (McEleney) knocks on Oscar’s door in a frenzy wearing his business suit and an anxious look. Together the two play off each other to create sharp, amusing, and seemingly natural dialogue that makes you feel as if you are sitting in their living room with them.
A hilarious situation ensues in which the guys try to prevent Felix from jumping out a window or doing anything to harm himself because they feel he might try to kill himself as a result of his wife leaving him. Oscar asks Felix, “Where are you going?” and Felix replies in a high pitched tone, “The bathroom.” “Alone?” Oscar inquisitively and wearily replies. Their quick one line jokes and convoluted facial expressions are deliberately used to capture emotion and invoke the authenticity of the scenario.
While comedy appropriately remains the overlapping theme of the play there is difficult life matters that are dealt with as well. What’s maybe the most interesting aspect of the play is its ability to reach the audience on a much deeper level. Simon wrote the play in the early sixties when divorce was becoming an ever increasing reality for many families all over America.
Simon captures that real life issue in a way that people can relate to and be entertained by. Through the struggle we see directly in Felix and indirectly in Oscar we are able to see the stereotype of the impenetrable male façade wiped out and a relatable internal and simultaneously external struggle develop. Self identity and divorce are concerns many of us face. Simon is able to capture those concerns and emotions through the characters and situations he created.
A timeless play, notable venue, outstanding cast, intriguing and relatable subject matter all come together to produce an outstanding rendition of The Odd Couple. And as Oscar inquires, “Is everybody happy?!” there is confidence in saying that the audience’s reply would surely be, “Yes!”
Target Publication: Providence Journal
Neil Simon’s The Odd Couple prevails today as a true American classic. The most recent rendition of The Odd Couple maintains that stature as it is recreated masterfully under the direction of Curt Columbus and Michael Gennaro. Currently playing at the Trinity Repertory Company in Providence, Rhode Island this play is a leading example that simplistic aesthetic and quality acting can still combine to create a timeless work that resonates with modern times.
The Trinity Rep is a great location for the newest adaptation of The Odd Couple. The venue itself holds only a few hundred people creating an intimate experience. Walking in you are greeted by a smiling staff and welcomed by a well lit, charming lobby. As you make your way to your seats you are only further entranced by the quaintness of the venue. What makes this enjoyable is that the mood is relaxed and informal, the perfect combination for someone who is only focused on a night of quality entertainment.
We all know the story; two men from complete opposite ends of the spectrum, a neat freak and a slob, both of whom have separated from their wives become roommates. Through dialogue, costume, mannerisms, subtle gestures and expressions the audience is able to see the contrasting difference between the two main characters. Their natural ability to fit their roles only enhances the sharpness and quality of the play itself. The cast fits their characters flawlessly and their chemistry is undeniable. Fred Sullivan, Jr. plays Oscar Madison opposite Brian McEleney as Felix Ungar.
Oscar (Sullivan) enters the stage (set up as his messy New York City apartment) in wrinkled khakis, an unbuttoned shirt, a Yankees cap, a tray full of beers and food for his poker buddies (minus Felix who hasn’t shown up and has never missed a game). It’s only a few minutes before the supposedly missing Felix (McEleney) knocks on Oscar’s door in a frenzy wearing his business suit and an anxious look. Together the two play off each other to create sharp, amusing, and seemingly natural dialogue that makes you feel as if you are sitting in their living room with them.
A hilarious situation ensues in which the guys try to prevent Felix from jumping out a window or doing anything to harm himself because they feel he might try to kill himself as a result of his wife leaving him. Oscar asks Felix, “Where are you going?” and Felix replies in a high pitched tone, “The bathroom.” “Alone?” Oscar inquisitively and wearily replies. Their quick one line jokes and convoluted facial expressions are deliberately used to capture emotion and invoke the authenticity of the scenario.
While comedy appropriately remains the overlapping theme of the play there is difficult life matters that are dealt with as well. What’s maybe the most interesting aspect of the play is its ability to reach the audience on a much deeper level. Simon wrote the play in the early sixties when divorce was becoming an ever increasing reality for many families all over America.
Simon captures that real life issue in a way that people can relate to and be entertained by. Through the struggle we see directly in Felix and indirectly in Oscar we are able to see the stereotype of the impenetrable male façade wiped out and a relatable internal and simultaneously external struggle develop. Self identity and divorce are concerns many of us face. Simon is able to capture those concerns and emotions through the characters and situations he created.
A timeless play, notable venue, outstanding cast, intriguing and relatable subject matter all come together to produce an outstanding rendition of The Odd Couple. And as Oscar inquires, “Is everybody happy?!” there is confidence in saying that the audience’s reply would surely be, “Yes!”
Target Publication: Providence Journal
Apr 1, 2010
CD Review
Jimi Hendrix’s Valley of Neptune: A Reinvented Collection from an Old Legend
Jimi Hendrix has been dead for almost forty years; how is he releasing a new cd in 2010? Well, unfortunately for true music enthusiasts, Jimi has been deceased for nearly forty years, but thanks to technology and his undeniable influence over rock music, the demand for his sound has not subsided. Debuting on March 9, 2010, Valleys of Neptune is a compilation of previously unreleased songs from the Jimi Hendrix Experience. Included in the album are original studio recordings of previously unreleased versions of some of the trios most sought after songs. With sounds and lyrics that could only come from one of the most influential artists of the twentieth century, Valleys of Neptune becomes enchanting entertainment that reminds us what is missing from many of today’s music: originality and talent.
The first song of the album, Stone Free, opens with a chord of the electric guitar, combining sounds of rock and blues, played as eloquently as only Jimi could, with smooth transitions and entrancing chords. If this isn’t enough to pull you in, the lyrics themselves are a strong metaphor to move you and remind you of what Jimi stood for: independence and the ability of one to be unaffected by others influences. “And this is why, listen to me baby, you can’t hold me down, I don’t wanna be tied down, I gotta be free, owh!” The lyrics our simple enough but the message is commanding. The stone is the weight that holds Jimi down and because he is free of the stone he can’t be held down and he refuses to be held down. Even in the first song we are reminded of the artist’s belief in his own words. This work will inspire listeners, teaching us to be true to ourselves. Jimi is able to combine empowering lyrics with unique and stimulating sounds that please our ears and give us all we expect out of him, if not more.
The rest of the album is resonant with the first song: combining chill worthy instrumentals with meaningful lyrics. Even though many of the songs have been released previously in some version or another, we are still empowered by the sound. Written in the late sixties the music reminds us of the basics and intricate simplicity that are so missed in artist’s work today.
And even without lyrics the music is still enchanting. Track six on the album, Sunshine of your Love, is a remake of the original by the rock band Cream. Hendrix’s version of Sunshine of your Love on this album is entirely instrumental. While it is a remake we still hear a definitive difference between the styles of the two songs. Jimi reinvented music as no other artist could. The rise and fall of the electric guitar is ingeniously intertwined with the bass, drums, and percussion in such a way as to make the listener feel like they are back in 1969 hearing it all over for the first time.
Stone Free and Sunshine of your Love are just two examples on this album of Jimi’s uncanny ability to mesmerize listeners. The album in its entirety is masterfully compiled and truly enjoyable. Though many of the songs have been listened to for decades, the album is still filled with innovation and passion. Valleys of Neptune is a necessary component of the Jimi Hendrix Experience. Releasing an album forty years after an artist’s death and achieving a renewed sense of awe proves why Jimi Hendrix remains a legend in rock music. Valleys of Neptune is a must have album for anyone who appreciates the importance of the inspirers of rock in its truest form and yearns for the classic sound of a twentieth century marvel.
Target Publication: Spin Magazine
Jimi Hendrix has been dead for almost forty years; how is he releasing a new cd in 2010? Well, unfortunately for true music enthusiasts, Jimi has been deceased for nearly forty years, but thanks to technology and his undeniable influence over rock music, the demand for his sound has not subsided. Debuting on March 9, 2010, Valleys of Neptune is a compilation of previously unreleased songs from the Jimi Hendrix Experience. Included in the album are original studio recordings of previously unreleased versions of some of the trios most sought after songs. With sounds and lyrics that could only come from one of the most influential artists of the twentieth century, Valleys of Neptune becomes enchanting entertainment that reminds us what is missing from many of today’s music: originality and talent.
The first song of the album, Stone Free, opens with a chord of the electric guitar, combining sounds of rock and blues, played as eloquently as only Jimi could, with smooth transitions and entrancing chords. If this isn’t enough to pull you in, the lyrics themselves are a strong metaphor to move you and remind you of what Jimi stood for: independence and the ability of one to be unaffected by others influences. “And this is why, listen to me baby, you can’t hold me down, I don’t wanna be tied down, I gotta be free, owh!” The lyrics our simple enough but the message is commanding. The stone is the weight that holds Jimi down and because he is free of the stone he can’t be held down and he refuses to be held down. Even in the first song we are reminded of the artist’s belief in his own words. This work will inspire listeners, teaching us to be true to ourselves. Jimi is able to combine empowering lyrics with unique and stimulating sounds that please our ears and give us all we expect out of him, if not more.
The rest of the album is resonant with the first song: combining chill worthy instrumentals with meaningful lyrics. Even though many of the songs have been released previously in some version or another, we are still empowered by the sound. Written in the late sixties the music reminds us of the basics and intricate simplicity that are so missed in artist’s work today.
And even without lyrics the music is still enchanting. Track six on the album, Sunshine of your Love, is a remake of the original by the rock band Cream. Hendrix’s version of Sunshine of your Love on this album is entirely instrumental. While it is a remake we still hear a definitive difference between the styles of the two songs. Jimi reinvented music as no other artist could. The rise and fall of the electric guitar is ingeniously intertwined with the bass, drums, and percussion in such a way as to make the listener feel like they are back in 1969 hearing it all over for the first time.
Stone Free and Sunshine of your Love are just two examples on this album of Jimi’s uncanny ability to mesmerize listeners. The album in its entirety is masterfully compiled and truly enjoyable. Though many of the songs have been listened to for decades, the album is still filled with innovation and passion. Valleys of Neptune is a necessary component of the Jimi Hendrix Experience. Releasing an album forty years after an artist’s death and achieving a renewed sense of awe proves why Jimi Hendrix remains a legend in rock music. Valleys of Neptune is a must have album for anyone who appreciates the importance of the inspirers of rock in its truest form and yearns for the classic sound of a twentieth century marvel.
Target Publication: Spin Magazine
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