Annapolis, Maryland

Great long weekend in Annapolis with the Scott's who were great hosts. We got a late lunch at Mason's lobster roll where Leslie had the excellent lobster BLT with great bacon while I had the crab roll (not so surprisingly crab was the theme this weekend).We then went with some drinks and appetizers at the Federal House before getting to Vida Taco bar where I went with one cod, one soft shell crab and one duck taco.
Jeff and I started Saturday with a very good crepe with cinammon and strawberries before heading up the Chesapeake in Russell's boat

to Mike's North for some really good crabs but the crab balls were the star of the show.  On the way we saw a water spout which was pretty cool. Dinner was at Level for small plates and shots.  Level had an excellent smoked salmon dish some great vodka shots with a green juice chaser (they did leave a mark though!) and strong brussels sprouts.
Sunday morning before heading back we went to the Iron Rooster for breakfast.  We got a really unusual giant handmade pop tart to start.  Jeff and Leslie had the Biscuits and Country Sausage gravy which was very well done.  I had the crab hash and made a note that next time I would get the Shrimp and Grits.

Somerville, nj

We had to be in  the Somerville area this weekend so we had drinks at Wolfgang's in Somerville before our meal.  Beer's were good but the fresh chips out of the fryer were really tasty. Decided to try an old school italian restaurant in Da Fillipos Authentic Cucina which didn't look great from the outside but the service made the place.  The owners, a wife and husband (the chef) were really nice and had great recommendations including the fried arugula which was excellent.  Really interesting way of cooking cod in paper which kept the moisture in the fish. Everything was very good. The chef suggested we come back in Winter when he fries a different vegetable which is even better.