Laura C. Allan

Laura C. Allan

@lcallan.bsky.social

I am a food writer and home cook currently working for The Takeout, as well as an avid San Jose Sharks fan and lover of all things fiction. Read my work HERE: https://www.thetakeout.com/author/lauraallan/

276 followers546 following160 posts

Pinned

Okay, for 200 followers (THANKS ALL!) I figured I'd explain my profile pic. That's me COMPLETING the 2X SPICY KOREAN NOODLE CHALLENGE! At the time, they were the spiciest on the market. I completed a bowl in less than 9 minutes! I was sweating so much... #foodsky #aboutme #2xnoodlechallenge #spicy

As always, I love getting to write about my local haunts. Spancky's is one such spot, & I cannot speak highly enough about it. It's a quaint little dive bar, but it's warm, friendly, & welcoming. It's also got some of the best bartenders in town! #cotati #spanckys #foodsky #norcal #bayarea #sonoma

The Takeout@thetakeout.bsky.social

Discover this Bay Area bar that has a history of hosting famous musicians and continues to draw crowds for the music, hospitality, and drinks.

What do YOU think the proper etiquette here is? The Internet seems to be divided on this specific question, so to any Aldi shoppers out there, what do you think? #aldi #foodsky #etiquette #carts #shopping

The Takeout@thetakeout.bsky.social

Asking for someone else's shopping cart at Aldi isn't rude so long as you offer them a quarter in return and don't mind getting turned down.

So, is this hack work it? The consensus seems to be... not really. It's an easy one to do, and it doesn't cost you a thing, but the results you get out of it are lackluster or even bad. Have you tried this before? What did you think? #foodsky #foodhacks #mcnugget #mcdonalds #chickennugget #welldone

The Takeout@thetakeout.bsky.social

Ordering Chicken McNuggets well done at McDonald's is a good way to get food that's fresh out of the fryer, but it takes a long time and isn't perfect.

I am blessed enough to live near this legendary pizzeria, and you should try it. Tommaso's opened in 1935, and it's still going strong. It also has a few rather unusual pie options as far as toppings, but be adventurous! It's worth it! #Tommasos #pizza #foodsky #foodhistory #pizzeria #sanfrancisco

The Takeout@thetakeout.bsky.social

Believe it or not, the very first pizzeria on the West Coast is still serving up hot and fresh pizza pies. This San Francisco joint keeps it classic.

Ok folks, time to weigh in: Pan Pizza Crust or Hand Tossed Pizza Crust? (Of course, the real answer is make your pizza from scratch at home, but if you gotta hit the Hut for pizza, which do you prefer?) #pizzahut #pizza #foodsky #choice #panpizza #handtossed #crust

The Takeout@thetakeout.bsky.social

The debate about whether Pizza Hut's pan or hand tossed crust is tastier rages on, but Reddit users have made it abundantly clear that pan crust reigns supreme.

Ramsay loves Cuban food, and he's said as much on numerous occasions. Can he make a Floridian-approved cubano sandwich though? Maaaaybe not... #gordonramsay #cubano #cuban #foodsky #celebritychef #miami #sandwich #florida

The Takeout@thetakeout.bsky.social

Gordon Ramsay has been vocal about his love for Cuban food, so it makes sense that whenever he's in Miami he makes a point to grab a Cuban sandwich.

Want to try some of Elvis' favorite food? You actually still can, as the spot he liked to party at on late night's still serves his preferred ribs and sandwiches. It even has a new location, if you happen to be in town. #elvis #tennessee #foodhistory #ribs #bbq #foodsky #leonards #memphis

The Takeout@thetakeout.bsky.social

Leonard's Pit Barbecue in Memphis, Tennessee was a BBQ restaurant that Elvis Presley loved. It's still open today more than 100 years later.

I have so SO much love for 7 Stars. If you are in the South Bay, I recommend you make the trip to try it. I hope the adoration I have for this bar comes through in this article. :) #foodsky #restaurantreview #bars #starwars #nerd #campbell #7stars

The Takeout@thetakeout.bsky.social

Located near San Jose, California, 7 Stars Bar and Grill offers a galaxy far, far away experience with "Star Wars"-themed drinks, decor, and fun.

I know I've had it before, but did your family ever make Salmon Loaf? I used to love the stuff and in my opinion it's one of the best ways to use canned salmon! The recipe is at least 125 years old, too. #foodsky #salmonloaf #foodhistory #cannedfish #homecooking #foodhacks

The Takeout@thetakeout.bsky.social

Ground beef or turkey is likely what comes to mind when you think of meatloaf, but there are many good reasons why you should use salmon instead.

Want to spice up your deviled eggs a little? I'm more a fan of making those bad boys as dill-filled as possible! But those who want more of a kick may prefer this method I describe. #deviledeggs #tajin #foodsky #foodhacks #cookingtips #partyfood

The Takeout@thetakeout.bsky.social

The next time you make deviled eggs, skip the paprika and reach for this Mexican seasoning blend. It's vibrant, flavorful, and just what your deviled eggs need.

Got a slowcooker? Time to make wings. It's easy and fun, and takes a lot of stress out of entertaining. But ONLY if you like fall-off-the-bone wings. #cookinghack #slowcooker #instantpot #wings #foodsky #chicken #whatsfordinner #recipes

The Takeout@thetakeout.bsky.social

An Instant Pot can be used to make chicken wings. It's a method that is faster than using an oven and the steam ensures they don't come out dry.

If you've never heard of Marcel Boulestin (let's face it, you probably haven't) please read this. I fell in love with this man while researching his history and cooking show. His tale is deeply tragic, even moreso than I included in the article. #foodsky #cookingshows #boulestin #chef #foodhistory

The Takeout@thetakeout.bsky.social

The first televised cooking show, "Cook’s Night Out," starred chef X. Marcel Boulestin — but it aired live in 1937 and was never recorded for future chefs.

The Front Porch has been around since 2006 & it's still offering up serious Southern hospitality. If you're in the area give it a visit & don't sleep on the Dr. Pepper braised short rib if it's currently on the menu. Absolutely to die for. #thefrontporch #foodsky #sanfrancisco #restaurant #guyfieri

The Takeout@thetakeout.bsky.social

Be like Guy Fieri and check out this unique San Francisco restaurant. This charming spot serves up comforting southern dishes in an inviting environment.

To be crystal clear: I love my Buldak so hot I can barely breathe. My profile pic is evidence of this fact. But, for those who occasionally like to take some edge off the heat, there are a few helpful tips here. #foodsky #foodhacks #buldak #ramen #spicy

The Takeout@thetakeout.bsky.social

Buldak ramen is notoriously spicy, but it's also famously delicious. If you've been chowing down and need a break from the heat, here's how to mellow it out.

Want to know a truly TERRIBLE way to lose weight? The David Bowie diet. I adore Bowie, but he was definitely a troubled man who made many bad decisions in his life. At one point, he lived purely off of drugs, milk, and peppers. Really, that's it. #bowie #milk #peppers #diet #eightloss #foodsky

The Takeout@thetakeout.bsky.social

There wasn't much that was normal about David Bowie's life, but his eating habits in the 1970s led to some pretty alarming results. This was his diet.

Lennon had a complicated relationship with food. That's... putting it mildly. However, he was a huge blood pudding fan. Incidentally, I quite like it too! #bloodpudding #foodsky #englishbreakfast #johnlennon #breakfast #foodhistory #beatles

The Takeout@thetakeout.bsky.social

John Lennon's ideal breakfast spread included a number of classic ingredients, but it also featured a divisive type of sausage that you either love or hate.

Have you heard of the Pizza Principle? When I started researching, I was pretty fascinated that someone noticed this correlation to begin with. I think it's also very telling about the state of our nation that it's vanishing more with each passing year. #foodsky #inflation #pizza #pizzaprinciple

The Takeout@thetakeout.bsky.social

NYC’s "Pizza Principle" once linked the price of a slice to subway fares, but rising food costs and inflation have broken the long-running trend.

If you enjoy the Filet-o-fish sandwich at McDonalds, you should know that the sandwich only exists because of a bet. Well, and also because of pineapple. #foodsky #mcdonalds #filetofish #lent #fish #foodhistory #raykroc #hulaburger

The Takeout@thetakeout.bsky.social

McDonald's founder Ray Kroc didn't like the idea of a stinky Filet-O-Fish at first, and instead wanted to sell a Hula Burger to his Catholic customers.

Do you remember these? They are kind of a flicker in my memory, but I genuinely thought they were around for longer than that. Were you a fan and do you miss them? #Wendys #frescata #discontinued #foodsky #fastfood #sandwich #retrofood

The Takeout@thetakeout.bsky.social

Wendy’s Frescata sandwiches were a popular deli-style menu item from around 2006 to 2008, but the fast food chain discontinued them. Here's why.

So, I wrote this in kind of shock. I didn't realize that many people were unaware that yogurt is a main ingredient in many Indian curries, not coconut milk or cream. Not shading people who didn't know, I'm just... surprised! :) #foodsky #foodhacks #yogurt #curry #indian #dahi #coconutmilk #cooking

The Takeout@thetakeout.bsky.social

Out of coconut milk? Learn how swapping it for yogurt made with whole milk can make a rich, flavorful curry that adds creaminess and balance.

As much as I do want to eat my entire bodyweight of this stuff, I also kinda would like to make my own from scratch. I can make a mean alfredo, so why not? #foodsky #traderjoes #gochujang #fusilloni #pasta #new

The Takeout@thetakeout.bsky.social

Trader Joe's customers love the new frozen Spicy Alfredo Fusilloni Pasta, calling it absolutely delicious for its creamy sauce and drool-worthy gochujang kick.

Do you live near SF and have a hankering for pastries? Then you need to try this place. There's a new location opening in Palo Alto too, if you don't want to go all the way into The City. #croissants #Arsicault #pastries #restaurants #baking #sanfrancisco #review #foodsky

The Takeout@thetakeout.bsky.social

The texture, flavor, and flake factor of these croissants are pretty much unmatched. Here's why you should check out this popular San Francisco bakery.

IMPORTANT! Massive recall in effect for the Midwest! The FDA has released a list of products impacted by contamination, and it's around 2,000 different items! I included info on what to do and how to find out if you've bought tainted products. #Recall #foodsky #fda #safety #contamination #classII

thetakeout.comDisturbing Recall Of Pringles, Gatorade, And More Upgraded To Class 2 - The TakeoutThousands of grocery items by Pringles, Gatorade, and other companies have been recalled. They were stored in a facility contaminated with animal excrement.

I will absolutely shout this hack from the rooftops! I've recommended it to so many, & it's so easy. I live in an area with good climate, so I don't have to do the water method. I just stick the butts into the soil & a week later I have green onions. #foodsky #foodhacks #greenonions #gardening #diy

The Takeout@thetakeout.bsky.social

Place green onion bottoms into a bowl or cup with the cut sides up. Fill the cup with water until the roots are covered, and set it in an area with sunlight.

My boy Mark lived in my area of the country for only a short time, but it made a lasting impression on him. Especially the oysters! I've had Olympia's only once, and they were truly unique. #foodsky #foodhistory #marktwain #olympia #oysters #seafood

The Takeout@thetakeout.bsky.social

Mark Twain frequently dined on Olympia oysters during his stay at the Occidental Hotel in San Francisco. They're hard to come by these days due to pollution.

If you frequent Trader Joe's you've probably spotted their pizza cream cheese. Maybe you even tried it! If so, did you like it? Because it's a WILD flavor ride, and I know a lot of customers are hoping it doesn't end up as a limited-time offering after all. #foodsky #traderjoes #pizza #creamcheese

The Takeout@thetakeout.bsky.social

Trader Joe's new Everything But the Pizza Whipped Cream Cheese is going viral for its bold flavor, versatility, low price, and cult following.

YES. FINALLY. Okay, I know it should be simple, but cutting between these things is SUCH a pain. Here's hoping that the perforated lines between each package actually tear clean this time... #foodsky #foodnews #costco #chicken #update #breakingnews

The Takeout@thetakeout.bsky.social

One of Costco customers' biggest gripes these past years has been the packaging to Kirkland Signature's chicken breast. It finally fixed the problem.

This profile is for, has been for, and will continue to be for my food works. It isn't meant to be politically-focused in ANY capacity. But let me be apparent, just this once: >Fuck Ice.< That is all.

Does anyone else recall Franco American canned mac and cheese?? It had a flavor that lives in my head rent free to this day. #foodsky #francoamerican #cannedfood #macandcheese #discontinued #retrofood #nostalgia

The Takeout@thetakeout.bsky.social

Canned pasta is an American pantry staple, especially for young families. This once-popular canned pasta dish is one that nobody eats anymore.

I don't know WHY my editor let me get away with describing Mission burritos this way, but they did, & I'm happy. My loved ones & I have strong opinions on what makes a good burrito of this style, which you'll find at the end of the article. #burrito #mission #sanfrancisco #foodsky #foodhistory

The Takeout@thetakeout.bsky.social

San Francisco's Mission-style burritos may be the most popular burrito style around, so it's no wonder there are competing claims as to when they were invented.

If you've ever been to San Francisco, I'm betting you already know where this chocolate wall is. ;) #Ghirardellisquare #ghirardelli #sanfrancisco #chocolate #waterfall

The Takeout@thetakeout.bsky.social

You've probably seen a chocolate fountain before, but what about a chocolate wall? San Francisco boasts the largest chocolate wall in America.

I have exactly TWO pieces in my collection. One is cracked ever so slightly, so it never comes out from the leaded glass curio. The other I do take out to show off, but I would NEVER EVER eat off of it. And, despite temptation, neither should you. #uraniumglass #antiques #thrifting #dangerous #glow

The Takeout@thetakeout.bsky.social

Vintage uranium glass has become the glowing rarity of collectible glassware. But think twice before dining on chipped, cracked, or glazed radioactive dishes.

Dollar store meals are nothing to be ashamed of & you should know how to get the most food for your dime. If you're seeking protein, beans offer a way to get it without spending on pricy beef or chicken. You just have to know what you're doing with them. #foodsky #dollarstore #budget #foodhacks

The Takeout@thetakeout.bsky.social

Shopping for groceries at the dollar store is a good way to save money, but you don't have to reach for pricey meat. This alternative offers affordable protein.

Want to upset an Australian? Tell them that Vegemite and Marmite are the same. Go ahead and give it a try if you're daring, just be prepared for special levels of swear words. :) Or, you can learn a little about how they're different instead? #marmite #vegemite #australia #swearing #foodsky #yeast

thetakeout.comThe Key Differences Between Marmite And Vegemite - The TakeoutMarmite and Vegemite may not be big in the United States, but they're huge across the pond. If you want to try either, you should know their differences.

Why yes, it is winter. Why yes, you can still enjoy lemonade sorbet! No one can technically stop you except you, so go for it. Life is certainly giving us lemons right now, so why not? #foodhacks #recipes #lemonsorbet #foodsky #icecream #easydesserts

thetakeout.comThe Tasty 2-Ingredient Lemonade Sorbet You Can Easily Whip Up In Under 5 Minutes - The TakeoutIt's time you discovered how you can make lemonade sorbet at home without an ice cream maker and with just two ingredients. It's easy and quick to whip up.

Boston Cream Pies are, admittedly, amazing. But they are a pain to make from scratch. At least with this hack, you can make them in smaller, easier batches that won't have you cleaning every dish in your house. #foodhacks #foodky #cookinghacks #bostoncreampie #dessert #advice #sweets #mugcake

The Takeout@thetakeout.bsky.social

Bake Boston cream pie in mason jars for the best portable dessert, and enjoy those chocolate and vanilla flavors, plus ultra decadent textures, anywhere you go.

If you're a bartender, take note of this. I don't want anyone getting in trouble or getting fired for doing something that seems "harmless" but is actually illegal. #laws #bartenders #marrying #liquor #drinks #bottles #illegal #breakingthelaw #bars

The Takeout@thetakeout.bsky.social

"Marrying" liquors -- or pouring one bottle into another -- is sometimes done to save space, but it is against the law and can be unsafe for customers.

If you take my advice on only ONE place, listen to me on this one. The SF Tea Garden is magical and it has a healing effect on my soul. It's got this kind of deep peace to it that you won't find elsewhere, especially in the heart of the city. #sanfrancisco #travel #teagarden #reviews #advice #visit

The Takeout@thetakeout.bsky.social

Tea gardens are a place of quiet contemplation and mindful sipping. If you're in the San Francisco area, this tea garden is one of America's oldest.

For my local SF foodies! Always fun to write a piece on a restaurant that's near me for a change. If you're lucky enough to snag a seat at La Cigale, consider yourself blessed because you're in for a unique experience. #lacigale #foodsky #restaurant #sanfrancisco #foodies #review #fire #california

The Takeout@thetakeout.bsky.social

If you're in the Bay Area, this San Francisco restaurant is worth a stop -- especially if you appreciate complex, smoky, fire-kissed flavor.

Let me be clear: I DO order steak quesadillas from Taco Bell when I need a comfort food fix. I know it's not good quality. It tastes so, so bland & the texture is terrible. And I LOVE it every time. There's a time & a place for gross food, imho. #foodsky #tacobell #steak #reddit #order #fastfood

The Takeout@thetakeout.bsky.social

Fast food in general has a bad reputation for food quality, but Taco Bell can't seem to shake its stigma for bad meat. Here's why its staff avoids the steak.

If you have a silicone or even metal donut pan, cooking scrambled eggs in it is pretty fun. If you like bagel sandwiches, that fun turns quickly into genuine usefulness. If you're looking to save time and meal-prep breakfasts, this is one way to do it. #donutpan #foodsky #foodhacks #breakfast #eggs

The Takeout@thetakeout.bsky.social

A donut pan is your secret weapon for making perfectly shaped eggs for breakfast sandwiches.

Want to get that fast food BBQ flavor? Yeah, I know it's not exactly high quality, but it has a certain something in it that's just crack-levels of addictive. So, if you want to make it at home, you'll need to add in a little mayo. Yes, really. #foodsky #foodhacks #BBQ #bbqsauce #fastfood #DIY

The Takeout@thetakeout.bsky.social

There is something so craveable about fast food barbecue sauce. Fortunately, you can recreate that thick texture and rich flavor with one simple addition.