Jack-o-lanterns. Creepily-decorated homes. Loads of mini-candy bars (or wrappers, if you’re like me). These are just some of the images that come to mind when I think of Halloween. Like many of you, this time of year always gets me into a more adventurous mood; almost hoping to see or experience something scary. If we allow it to, Halloween gives us all the space to be a little silly, not take ourselves so seriously, and really get out of our comfort zones.
With that in mind, it’s only fitting that we discuss some of the most adventurous foods we’ve tried this year — and we’re not talking about deviled eggs or blood orange mimosas here. Just because the menu items mentioned here seem spine-tingling, it does not mean that they won’t taste delicious and have you asking for seconds soon after. If you’re ready to venture out of your comfort zone, read on for my top 5 favorite fearless foods.
1. Missy’s Bloodbath
Bagel & Deli Shop in Oxford, OH
With a name like that, this sandwich has to be an experience. Atop a delicious onion bagel, this sandwich features rare cold roast beef and melted colby cheese. Don’t let rare scare you away. The Bagel and Deli Shop has a special way of steaming their bagels instead of toasting them, which adds a whole new level to this sandwich in particular. This steaming process makes the bagel super soft, so you can really sink your teeth into it. Shoutout to the vampire fans out there. If roast beef isn’t your thing, check out the other daredevil bagels this shop has to offer.
Address: 119 E High St, Oxford, OH 45056
2. Pho-Nomenon w/ Bone Marrow & Tendon
(Photo taken by @fionaeats365)
Cha Pa’s Noodles & Grill in New York, NY
We hope you’re still with us. The Pho-Nomenon is not your normal beef combination pho. While this dish serves up the usual brisket and meatballs, Cha Pa’s addition of bone marrow to this traditional Vietnamese recipe will bring you to another dimension. This pho is served with a thick, broiled bone so you can scoop the marrow into the steaming broth, and then let it melt in your mouth. Not to mention, the broth is perfectly seasoned and flavorful. If you’re new to bone marrow & tendon, I urge you to give this dish a try. It’ll give you chills, but in the best way possible.
Address: 314 W 52nd St, New York, NY 10019
3. Buche (Pig Stomach) Burrito
Esmeralda Grill in Cary, NC
Is your stomach gurgling just reading the name of this dish? Well, if it was in a not-so-good way, I’m here to change that gut reaction. This no-frills buche burrito (also available in taco form) is the size of a small baby, full of flavor, and extremely delicious. Sharing the menu with tongue and tripe, the buche burrito isn’t even the boldest choice you can make. When you stop in, I suggest washing this burrito down with some of their delicious horchata. They don’t mess around at Esmeralda Grill.
Address: 748 E Chatham St suite j, Cary, NC 27511
4. Pickled Vegetable & Intestine Casserole
Legend 72 in New York, NY
Just like mom used to make. In all seriousness though, this seemingly intimidating stone-pot casserole is out of this world. Pork intestine is commonly used in traditional Sichuan food and flavored to perfection in this dish. If you’re someone who enjoys spicy foods, this casserole packs a spice level that does not disappoint. I recommend checking out the rest of Legend 72’s menu once you try this dish. It is filled with bold dishes like Sautéed Pig’s Kidney and Spicy Frog Legs. Kermit and Miss Piggy don’t have to know.
Address:127 W 72nd St, New York, NY 10023
5. Rattlesnake & Rabbit Sausage w/ Jalapeño Peppers
Wurstküche in Los Angeles, CA
This dish comes with a little bit of a bite. See what I did there? Served on a freshly baked roll with your choice of toppings and mustards, this exotic sausage is buttery, mildly spicy, and extraordinary. Wurstküche is famous for their sausages, so don’t knock it until you try it! I recommend adding caramelized onions and sauerkraut as your toppings with whole grain mustard on top. All of the sausages on the menu pair perfectly with their double-dipped Belgian fries and one of their many hand-selected Belgian or German beers on tap. That’s right – they have sausage, fries, and beer. Why aren’t you on your way yet?
Downtown Address: 800 E 3rd St, Los Angeles, CA 90013
Venice Address: 625 Lincoln Blvd, Venice, CA 90291
Visiting the Los Angeles area soon? Check out this blog post to learn about the best takeout spots in Culver City, hitting every type of cuisine that your taste buds could be craving. Not in the Culver City area? Discover delicious eats near you.
