No Need to Hurry in Ouray

When one thinks of Colorado, many images come to mind:  the Rocky Mountains, outdoor activities for days, and snow in the Winter and lovely temperatures all Summer long.  One also thinks of the fabulous and famous places to visit like Aspen and Telluride with all their luxurious ways of life, celebrity residents, and (at times) ridiculously crowded streets.  I love those places, too, for many reasons, but I am also fond of some of the not so oversaturated towns in Colorado.  Places where I can close my eyes and hear my thoughts, and smell that sweet air. One such place is Ouray.

With a population of less than 1000 people, Ouray is located on the other side of the mountain from Telluride, and tends to be a more friendly and welcoming place than some of the more “glamorous” places in the State.  The vibe is chill, the climate is perfect and, not for nothing, it is often referred to as the “Switzerland of America.”  People who know about Ouray love Ouray and cannot wait to return.

Because it is a quiet and unassuming place, do not expect any opulent hotels with room service and bell hops.  You will probably be toting your own luggage upstairs in old, historic buildings with no elevators that probably have been around since the days of Doc Holliday and Big Nosed Kate.  While not always the most comfortable, you cannot beat if for charm.

Owing to this lack of modernity, I was immediately scouring Main Street for dinner options.  I may be charmed by the views and architecture, but I still like to eat well.  That is when the hubs and I stumbled upon Bon Ton.

Offering both indoor and outdoor seating, always opt for the outdoor seating.  We have eaten here several times, dined both inside and out, and there is no comparison.  You will be staring at breathtaking views of the mountains in which the town is nestled.  A bottle of Barolo to go with their old-school Italian cuisine (eating tasty Italian cuisine is like a wearing a little black dress – you just cannot go wrong) while taking in the views is almost too much goodness to handle.  The ricotta stuffed tortellini are always a winner.

As for lunch and other dining needs, just walk up and down Main Street (warning:  the town is on an incline, so it will be easy to get winded walking Main), and you will find charming cafes and casual eateries for all your dining needs, but Bon Ton is close to my heart, as is Ouray.

www.visitouray.com

bonton-restaurant.com

Primed and Ready for My Steak

Porchandparlor.com

I have been going to Memphis for fun, leisurely weekends more years than I can count.  As a student at Ole Miss, it was a mere hour away, and many a (lost) weekend has taken place on famous Beale Street.  

Now, in my more “mature” years, I live about an hour and a half away, and that type of weekend holds no appeal to me, but Memphis is a great city that always appeals to me.  It is wonderful to visit when meeting up with old friends, shopping, and visiting historical landmarks.  First and foremost, is that there seem to always be new eateries to sample in addition to my tried-and-true favorite dining establishments.

My most recent sampling is a gem of a place called Porch and Parlor.  It first came to my attention when a fellow gym rat walked over to me one day in the midst of a sweaty cardio session and said to me, “You and your husband are into good food.  Let me tell you about a place I just tried with my husband.”  

I cataloged it in my head immediately (because my life revolves around food). Still, my antennae really perked up when a mere two weeks later, a completely unrelated person to my gym buddy essentially said the same thing to me, so I told the hubs, “It’s time to go to Memphis again for a night out.”

Located in Overton Square (a little bit of a hipster area), Porch and Parlor offers casual outdoor porch dining, or you can enjoy indoor dining in a lush and luxurious dining room.  Our weekend was in the middle of summer in Memphis, so we opted for the indoor dining option, as fine cuisine is best enjoyed when your clothes are not sticking to your back from the oppressive heat and humidity.

Being the obsessive-compulsive person to which I am prone, I had perused the menu several times before stepping into the restaurant and was firmly set on one of their fish dishes.  However, after our extremely professional and knowledgeable server walked us through the menu, it was clear this was a place where one goes to eat steak.  At a place such as this, I always trust the server because I know I will not be led astray.

Porch and Parlor are known for their “Prime” cuts of beef and extensive “Wagyu” selections.  Their signature appetizer is devilled eggs topped with a sizeable chunk of Wagyu.  That was a little too decadent and heavy sounding for this foodie to choose as a “starter,” so I opted to start with the Fresh Artichoke Soup, a creamy blend that included brie and crispy shallot.  It is not low in calories, but it was divine.  

My husband is a French onion soup fiend (if it is on a menu, rest assured he will order it), so he ordered it and said it was one of the best he had ever eaten.  After sampling his parmesan tuile, I was inclined to agree with him.

As for the steak, we ordered incredibly well-marbled ribeye, which was perfectly seasoned and beyond succulent.  For this carboholic, though, the Loaded Parlor Potatoes stole the show.  Layered with scalloped potatoes, several types of cheese, bacon, onions, and chives, I could eat this for breakfast every day of my life and not feel even the least bit bad about it. 

The Petite Syrah paired with our steaks really enhanced everything on the table.  My only disappointment was that I had no capacity left for dessert (perhaps that was a hidden blessing).

I highly recommend this place to fine diners everywhere, particularly those interested in elevated steakhouse experiences.  

This place does not miss.

At the Junction of Nature and Fine Dining

I have been lucky enough to take part in many wonderful meals in my adult lifetime, but there are only a handful times I can recall in which I leaned back at the end of the meal and said “that was a beautiful meal.”  As is usually the case when this has occurred, it is utterly unexpected.  26 on Rood in Grand Junction, Colorado, is one such place worthy of that praise.

En route to Aspen, my first time visiting Grand Junction was in the middle of July, and I was stunned by how hot and dry it was.  I was like “hello, I thought it is supposed to be cool weather in the mountains?”  That was when my husband explained to me Grand Junction is a major city intersecting the Colorado River and Gunnison River and encapsulated by the Grand Mesa.  It is protected from normal arctic air masses, so temperatures in Grand Junction stay a few degrees warmer than most of the rest of Colorado.

The foodie that resides deep in my soul immediately began looking for interesting places to eat, and all I saw was miles of chain restaurants.  I thought that was going to be it as far as dining options were concerned.  However, when we returned to Grand Junction the following summer (it is a major hub one goes through almost always when traveling through Colorado), I dug deeper and soon learned I was in Colorado wine country with beautiful scenery, and there were definitely some delectable dining options at our disposal.  That is when I stumbled upon 626 on Rood.

This little oasis is a wine bar and offers seasonal dining menus, so it is never the same menu when we return but is always, always, always, top notch.  The wine menu is diverse and voluminous.  One of the owners takes such care and attention to the wine selection that she takes frequent trips to Europe to learn and stock up the restaurant’s wine cellar.  Personally, I am partial to their wine flights.

As for the food, prepare to have your palate dazzled.  The proprietors grow their own herbs in the garden connected to the establishment, and everything tastes fresh.  Most recent favorites have included a Caesar salad with tofu croutons, Black Angus beef tenderloin with pomme puree and mushroom ragout, the 626 almond financier cake (a true original!), and the best salmon I have ever tasted – miso and couscous crusted to perfection.  In short, 626 on Rood would be considered sensational no matter what city into which it would be dropped.

I learned from those first few trips to Grand Junction that in my fervor to get to some of those more well-known and fancier towns, I was missing out on what was right in front of me – a very cool, bustling town just waiting to feed me.  Lesson learned.

Make Mine A Manhattan

Cocktail hour is sacred in our house. There comes a point in the day when it is time to finally stop and (try) to forget about the stressors in our lives. At the end of a particularly long and grueling day, nothing gives me that soothing, slightly burning feeling, which blissfully blurs the edges, like a Manhattan. Very Mad Men of us, no?

It is debated how and for whom the Manhattan cocktail originated, but most historians agree it was created in the Manhattan area of New York City and dates back as early as the 1870s.

There are many variations on how to properly mix a Manhattan. Some use bourbon. Others like Canadian whiskey, the brown liquor of choice during Prohibition when that could be obtained. Some prefer their Manhattan to be sweet with cherry juice poured into the mix while others like a lemon garnish for a little bit of tartness. Some drink it straight up without ice, but I like mine icy cold. However, one prefers their Manhattan, it is always a cocktail for those who like to give a nod to that old New York cocktail hour.

Our recipe is made by my in-house mixologist (the hubs), and it is foolproof. Try it one day when a weaker drink just will not do.

• 2 Shots Bourbon (Woodford Reserve is our go-to)

• 1 Shot Sweet Vermouth

• 1 Maraschino Cherry (slightly muddled)

• 4 Dashes of Orange Bitters

Did Someone Say “Holiday Party?”

I absolutely love the Thanksgiving and Christmas holiday seasons. Always have. Always will. There is just something in the air this time of year, and there is nothing about it I do not enjoy. There is the decorating (both inside AND outside the house, of course), sending and receiving Christmas cards, and gift wrapping - even the spending of money does not bother me, as I find it enjoyable to select gifts for people who are special to me.

Bar none for me, however, are the holiday parties. What could be better than friends having an excuse to get together (in their fuzzy attire), eat, drink, and be merry? It is a beautiful thing. I love attending these kinds of parties, and I thoroughly enjoy hosting festive gatherings as well. Admittedly, hosting can be a daunting task, and it is easy to become overwhelmed, so the following are the 5 tips I always keep in mind when planning a successful holiday soiree.

1. A Little Décor Goes a Long Way – Decorating is not everyone’s cup of tea. I get it. If you are going to host a holiday party, though, make sure you put out a little effort into this department. Otherwise, what differentiates it from a regular dinner party or barbeque? If decorating is something you dread, something as simple as a few Poinsettia arrangements, a wreath on your front door, or some carefully scattered holly around the entertaining area of your home will give off that spirit of the holidays.

2. Make Sure That Bar Is Fully Stocked – The bar is always stocked in our house (a la Don Draper), but some never think of stockpiling spirits unless a special occasion is fast approaching. While it can be the most costly aspect of entertaining, it is essential. Keep in mind that everyone does not drink the same thing. You will need clear libations, whiskeys and bourbons, beer, red wine, and white wines, and it never hurts to have a little bubbly in the refrigerator. As an aside, note that not everyone may want an alcoholic beverage, so I ensure there are several kinds of sodas, iced tea, etc., on hand for those who prefer it.

3. The Menu Matters – There should be a certain amount of variety in the spread laid out before your guests, it should look inviting, and it should be something special for the holidays. Most people walk away from an occasion remembering the food, first and foremost, and holiday parties are ALL about small plates with an array of goodies. I try and make sure there are vegetarian options, something substantial for the carnivorous guests, and a healthy mix of sweet and salty options. I avoid becoming stressed and overwhelmed by the menu by making out my menu a couple of weeks before the big day and chopping, dicing, and mixing as much as possible a day in advance of the big party.

4. Set the Atmosphere With Music – I am extremely aware that music may be the most subjective of all art forms. Plenty of arguments have arisen in our household about the selection of music at any given time or event. Even with that being the case, put some holiday music on in advance of your guests’ arrival time. It does not feel very jolly or festive to walk into a silent house or with only a few people standing around awkwardly, trying to make conversation. Music can put your guests at ease and be an inadvertent icebreaker to get that party started, as the kids like to say. It is difficult to imagine anyone disagreeing over Nat King Cole’s “Chestnuts Roasting On An Open Fire” playing on your sound system. It just does not get any more Christmas-y than that.

5. Mingle! – Odds are, if someone is attending your holiday party, then he or she probably likes you and wants to visit and catch up with you, and this is the season for that. I know firsthand that being a hostess can be an all-consuming task, and you feel the need to constantly be cleaning and keeping everything in order. That sink full of dishes can wait until the following morning, though. Do as much cooking and cleaning in advance, and you can feel comfortable mingling and partying the night away. Cheers!

Pouring One Out for Ravine

I was recently alerted by bestie, and GTC blog partner Cameron Abel, that Ravine in Oxford, Mississippi, was closing its doors for good.  I had literally just eaten there with my husband less than two days before I received the sad news.  Per usual, our meal that particular evening had been spectacular with us feasting on duck breast on wild rice pancakes, and some heavenly devil’s food cake topped with homemade cream.

I took the news hard, and I could not help but ask myself: why do I feel this emotional about a restaurant closing?  After a (tiny) bit of reflection, I realized that not only do I find dining out to be enjoyable, but it has always been a comfort to me as well.  Most of my happiest memories in life are of times out with friends and/or my husband involving lots of laughs, bonding, and lively conversation over a good meal with a cocktail in hand.  Doing all of this at a special restaurant can turn a gathering into an “experience.”

Ravine is a special restaurant. A special place.  It opened 15 years ago with owner, Chef Joel Miller, at the helm. When my husband and I started dating 14 years ago this was one of the places he took me to dinner when he came to visit me while I still lived in Oxford. We returned several times over the years when coming in for a night or two, including for dinner with a group of my law school classmates for a little reunion last year.

When discussing where to make reservations for the dozen or so of us, I piped up quickly and said “we HAVE to eat at Ravine.  It is the BEST.”  We did, and everyone was delighted with the meal, the atmosphere, and the service. Plates shared that evening included an avocado and crab salad, housemade papardelle pasta with fresh veggies (perfect for one of my vegetarian friends), and some to-die-for pecan pie.

Located in a large, rustic and charming cabin in the woods a few miles outside the City of Oxford, Ravine was always about using locally sourced foods, including some items grown in its own garden outside the cabin. Thus, the menu was ever-evolving and always fresh. 

Understandably, Chef Joel, a true culinary artist, is exhausted after surviving a crippling pandemic, which put countless businesses and restaurants out to pasture, and an economy, which is making quality service harder and harder to maintain. Chef Joel has publicly expressed that he needs a break, but he should know that he and it will be missed by many of us.  

So I am pouring one out for Ravine today, but hoping Chef Joel will be back with something equally as exciting and interesting in the near future.

www.OxfordRavine.com

A Food Hangover Like None Other – Part 3 (Doing Dinner Right)

Once it reaches the hour for evening cocktails and dinner in The Big Easy I, admittedly, have probably already overindulged in some really rich food and libations several times over throughout the day.  I find this is easily cured, though, with a little afternoon nap to recharge my hunger and thirst batteries.

Our third, and final part, in this series on NOLA is going to close out with some of the finest places in the world to eat dinner.  New Orleans can go toe to toe with any other city in the world when it comes to dinner, as far as I am concerned, and I always seem to enjoy my evening pre-dinner drinks in NOLA just a little bit more than any place else.

Dickie Brennan’s Steakhouse

The “Brennan” name is synonymous with New Orleans dining at this point, and the family has perfected the art of hospitality, tremendous service, and scrumptious food at all of its NOLA eateries.  However, it is also one of mine and my husband’s favorite place to pop in for pre-dinner cocktails is Dickie Brennan’s Steakhouse on Iberville Street.  The bar is exactly our kind of vibe with its soft and inviting lighting, rich colors and sumptuous décor.  It gives off big “Rat Pack” vibes, and the service is always on point.

www.dickiebrennanssteakhouse.com

Patrick’s Bar Vin

This is a recently discovered find, which was recommended to me by some fellow NOLA devotees and foodies, and they could not have been more right in nailing what I like in a bar and lounge atmosphere.  Specifically, this is a wine bar with dozens of champagnes and wines from which to choose.  While it might sound a bit persnickety, it is a favorite place to unwind for many locals who do not have an ounce of pretension about them.  Located in the historic Hotel Mazarin on Bienville, it is in walking distance of all places in The French Quarter and worth a look and see.

http://www.patricksbarvin.com

Antoine’s

Like a mother saying she has a favorite child, I feel guilty saying I have a favorite place to eat dinner in New Orleans.  These places are all just so dang good, but Antoine’s holds that special place in my heart.  Being New Orleans’ oldest restaurant (opened since 1840), is a major part of the romance and allure of Antoine’s for me.  Still run by the ancestors of Antoine Alciatore, it is now five generations going strong.

Almost every sitting U.S. President has been through the doors of Antoine’s to indulge in its French-Creole cuisine, old world service, and birthplace of the Oysters Rockefeller.  When dining here, it feels as though I have been transported back in time.  Classic entrees include my go to, the Pompano Pontchartrain – a pompano filet topped with the freshest poached jumbo lump crabmeat and white wine sauce.  A little French onion soup to start, and all the French wine I can handle, makes me a happy, gluttonous little diner.
https://antoines.com

G.W. Fins

Relatively new compared some more “famous” NOLA eateries, G.W. Fins opened in 2001, and Chef Michael Nelson is at the helm.  An expert in fish, as it were, everything on his menu is FRESH.  The menu is printed daily, so the dishes offered on any particular day are of the highest quality.  

On a recent outing for dinner, I was struck by the incredible level of customer service here.  The staff was attentive, polite, and well versed on everything listed on the menu.  Everyone in our group ordered something different, and we could not stop passing around our plates to sample all of it.  Simply put, there is NO substitute for incredibly fresh seafood, and this place is doing it exceedingly well.  Everything from the lobster dumplings (swimming in rich lobster butter) to the parmesan crusted sheepshead was a reminder that these chefs know what they are doing at Fins.

If you are a shameless oenophile like me, it is worth noting G.W. Fins has been awarded the “Wine Spectator Award of Excellence” for the past twenty years and counting, so treat yourself to a glass (or bottle) if you make your way to Fins.

www.gwfins.com

Herbsaint

Located on St. Charles Avenue in the Business District, this place goes a little outside the typical New Orleans flavor box.  It mixes Southern cuisine with a dash of Italian fare on the side (think rich deviled eggs with homemade mayonnaise followed by a plate of housemade spaghetti with a fried, poached farm egg atop it).  No one ever said you are going to lose weight in New Orleans. Ever.

Definitely not stuffy, Herbsaint makes the most out of a small space, so expect to sit close to others, but it adds to the trendy ambience.

www.herbsaint.com

Doris Metropolitan

I will be the first to admit that when I first heard of Doris Metropolitan, I thought I am not going to New Orleans to eat at a steakhouse.  This place continued to come up in conversation, however, so the hubs and I made our way to Doris.  To say we were proven wrong would be an understatement.

Our experience started with exotic cocktails consisting of tequila in a glass lined with spicy sumac on the rim (fire!) and a plate of artisanal cheeses.   We moved on to tenderloins with a side of bone marrow, and I thought I had died and gone to steak heaven.  In short, the best damn steak I ever ate.  Period.  

The wine selection at Doris is so extensive one could get overwhelmed by all of the options but I, for one, appreciate getting lost in all of the regions and varietals from which to choose.  We settled on a Barbaresco and waddled out full and happy.

www.dorismetropolitan.com

Galatoire’s

I will say it.  I have the mindset of an old person.  Bourbon Street is just not my cup of tea, but one will inevitably end up on Bourbon street when visiting.  The place that will get me out on Bourbon Street in a heartbeat, mind you, is Galatoire’s.  Open since 1905, and located right smack in the middle of the chaos that is Bourbon Street, it is fine dining mixed with that old world family atmosphere of unpretentious tables and chairs.

Recently, in speaking with a judge whom I highly respect, and it is safe to say he is a man of exacting taste and refinement, he asked me where I liked to eat in New Orleans.  Galatoire’s was the first place of which I thought, and he said “best martinis in the world.”  For me, that was a very high seal of approval.

This is French Creole cuisine at its most decadent.  I feel two pounds heavier when I leave Galatoire’s, but I would not have it any other way.  I cannot get enough of the stuffed eggplant – grilled eggplant stuffed with fresh lump crabment, veggies, and thick ooey gooey meuniere sauce.  I cleanse my palate with a lovely French wine, and move on to a very NOLA kind of dessert:  a homemade bread pudding with banana praline sauce.  Does not get any better than that.

www.galatoires.com

A Food Hangover Like None Other – Part 2 (Time for Lunch, Y’all)

Lunch in New Orleans is one of the greatest of all leisure activities. It’s vacation. It’s relatively early and still a new day. And it’s unlike the usual daily lunch hour for most of us which is always a bit rushed and entails a lot of glancing at watches. 

When eating lunch in New Orleans, I easily leave that all behind and relax. No emails. No phone calls. No rushing back to the office or, worse, back to the courthouse to argue all afternoon.  

And unless you’ve consumed the hair of the dog for or with your breakfast, you’re sober again and ready to get out and experience this unique American city. So, adopt an “I’ve-got-nothing-but-time” attitude and make your lunch last.

Our second part in this series on New Orleans touches on both mine and some of my collaborators’ favorite eateries to lunch. And maybe drink a little, too.  

The Market Cafe – Located on Decatur Street, this establishment is rife with atmosphere and is in one of the oldest buildings in the French Market.  It serves up traditional creole dishes.  I discovered this place only recently thanks to my brother and sister-in-law, and it was utterly delightful.  Our lunch included gumbo, red beans and rice, and jambalaya with sausage and fresh bell peppers – all the fan favorites! A little bonus to the experience is that there is always a jazz combo playing somewhere near your table.

Criollo – The Hotel Monteleone on Royal Street is one of my favorite places to stay in New Orleans, if not my favorite.  Historically significant with a breathtakingly beautiful interior, it screams old New Orleans opulence the second you enter. While many people are very familiar with the famed Carousel Bar in the hotel, most may not be aware there is a wonderful restaurant beside the bar. Criollo boasts seasonal menus, which always entail creative creole and seafood dishes.  

My husband and I entered Criollo kind of unassumingly one day not expecting anything besides a hotel restaurant to grab some lunch; it quickly became a relaxing, delicious lunch of fresh crab cakes, gumbo, and some perfectly seasoned trout amandine.  I am not ashamed to say a cold bottle of pinot grigio disappeared quickly during that outing.  

Perhaps the greatest compliment I can give Criollo is that a very close, dear friend of mine lives and works in New Orleans, and every time I visit I call her to come eat lunch with me.  We have frequently met up at Criollo, and she loves it.  A local’s tip of the hat is always a good endorsement.

Royal House – My most recent trip to New Orleans was over the holidays to attend the Sugar Bowl to watch the Ole Miss Rebels play.  Many of mine and my husband’s like-minded friends decided to make a week out of it, and do up NOLA right.  We certainly did just that.  Unfortunately, our eating and drinking forays that week were more successful than my beloved Rebels’ game outcome, but I digress.

Many of our good friends kept flocking to Royal House on Royal Street.  A fresh oyster bar that serves up heaping seafood platters, jambalaya, and a host of other tasty Cajun delights, there is a consensus this place is all about the atmosphere and great customer service.  There is always a line waiting here, but it seems to be worth it.

Turkey & The Wolf – This groovy sandwich shop was Bon Appetit’s #1 New Restaurant in 2017 besting all new restaurants across America. And with good reason. Creative, playful sandwiches prepared perfectly. It’s located uptown in the Irish Channel so plan to stay in the area around Magazine Street after you eat for some fun shopping. A few bites into the collard green melt with cherry pepper dressing, and you understand why so many folks make the trek from the Quarter to eat here. The fried bologna sandwich is just fantastic, especially paired with a wedge salad with bacon and blue cheese. And they’ve got booze!  

Central Grocery & Deli – You can’t escape the experience of a muffuletta. Piles of Italian meats and a briny olive salad make this one of New Orleans’ most well-known sandwiches, running neck-and-neck with the po’ boy. Central is currently closed for renovations after it suffered damage during Hurricane Ida, but they are offering their sandwiches at Zuppardo’s up in Metairie, and their online store can ship still ship sandwiches or olive salad. Many other New Orleans restaurants serve muffulettas but check to see if Central has re-opened. That sandwich is one-of-a-kind.

A Food Hangover Like None Other – Part 1 (Breakfast & Brunch)

It has been at the fore of my mind for quite some time to write about some of my favorite places to dine in New Orleans, a truly wonderful American city with a flavor and culture all its own.  I have held back because it is a daunting task.  I know I am going to exclude places, which may be some of your personal favorites, because there are just too many places from which to choose.  One could stay in NOLA for weeks and still miss out on some phenomenal eats.

I’ve joined my husband on countless numbers of trips over the years, and I always return home happy and full.  We call it the “food hangover.”  Yes, such a thing is real, my friends.  I am usually doubling my treadmill time for several weeks after one of our excursions to the Big Easy.  No complaints, though.  It. Is. Always. Worth. It. 

Our first part in this series on NOLA is going to touch on both mine and some of my collaborators’ favorite breakfast and brunch establishments.  If you are not starting your day out in NOLA with heavy food (and a Mimosa or Bloody Mary in hand), I dare say you are not doing it right.

Cajun and Creole classics at The Court of Two Sisters

The Court of Two Sisters – Located in the heart of the French Quarter, there is not a more New Orleans brunch experience than this jazz brunch, which has a buffet chocked full of Cajun and Creole classics.  Enjoy the incredible cuisine (I like to get some of EVERYTHING on my plate) and music, all while dining al fresco in its famous courtyard.  A cold, crisp white wine always helps get the party started.

Café Beignet – While I know Café Du Monde is the “famous” place to go for beignets and café au laits, Café Beignet has several locations all over the Quarter, and it makes a beignet just as pillowy, sugary, and delicious as Du Monde, but without the waiting and fighting over tables.  Of course, I’ll still frequent Du Monde from time to time for the NOLA ambience, but it is really nice to dispatch the hubs to Café Beignet to bring me some coffee and a bag of powdery goodness to enjoy in the hotel bed.

Commander’s Palace – Ladies, don your finery, and put on your sport coats, gentlemen.  Located in the city’s famed Garden District, this is about as fancy as one gets for brunch, and it is nothing short of DECADENT.  The Jazz Brunch includes mimosas poured with carefree abandon, fresh seafood dishes offerings, and their world famous Turtle Soup au Sherry (finished tableside).  If you even think of skipping dessert at Commander’s, please remember all of those ladies on the Titanic who waived away the dessert cart the night the ship went down.  That is just how phenomenal their creole bread pudding soufflé and pecan pie a la mode are.  You will thank me later.

The “Luke Burger” with homemade house fries and a fresh squeezed mimosa at Luke

Luke – This trendy little place was a revelation to us.  A fellow “foodie” told us to check it out on a trip to NOLA few years ago, and it did not disappoint.  Located on St. Charles, brunch has a little something for whatever your mood – traditional breakfast, a raw oyster bar and, of course, several creole classics like shrimp & grits.  Personally, I’m a big fan of the “Luke Burger,” which comes with Allan Benton’s bacon, Emmanthaler cheese, and the homemade house fries are to die for.  Washing all that divine greasiness with a fresh squeezed mimosa always takes me to my happy place.  If you are in the mood for a signature drink, the French 75 at Luke will please your palate every time.

A Few of Our Favorite Things

As 2021 draws to a close, we here at Grab The Corkscrew are looking back over the year and counting our blessings. 

We are certainly thankful for our group of writers, our blog turning two last month, and all of the wonderful readers! 

In the spirit of giving, we present to you some of our favorite things and pray that 2022 brings us all a renewed enthusiasm for cooking, dining, and sharing, and for love, the core of it all.

Cheers … 

Wine & Spirits

Franco Serra Barolo – It is no secret I love wine (red, white, rose, you name it!), but I have definitely refined my tastes over the years, and dry Italian reds are definitely some of my favorites.  Our wine rack is always stacked with several bottles of this Barolo.  Reasonably priced at around $35 per bottle, it will not break the bank and yet is a quality full-bodied red, which pairs excellently with meats and cheeses. (Amanda)

Campo Viejo Rioja - Buddy and I found this inexpensive Spanish red wine that we love. It’s fruity and perfectly smooth, but not sweet. Prices range from $10 - $20. If you try any of the older reserves, let it breathe for just a few minutes before pouring. If you cannot find the Campo Viejo, look for any Spanish red that is made with a tempranillo grape (key ingredient), in particular those from the Rioja region, though the blends are delicious, too. (Cam)

Broadbent Vinho Verde - I always keep an extra bottle of this light, refreshing white in my refrigerator. This Portuguese table wine is a blend of green grapes that’s perfectly spritzy and dry at the same time. At around $10, it’s the perfect price point for serving to friends over brunch or a fish dinner. I jokingly call this my “mama wine.” Because of its low alcohol content, you can enjoy a few glasses without feeling worse for the wear. (Mary Margaret)

Segura Viudas Brut Heredad Reserva Cava - This is the ultimate “bring a bottle of wine” choice for the holidays. If you haven’t seen this thing … you have to check it out. It’s a standard 750mL bottle of Spanish sparkling, but the actual bottle is decidedly fat, with an embossed metal base that’s super sexy and looks like it costs way more than $21. It also just happens to taste great, too! (Maggie)

Moet and Chandon Champagne – I confess.  I’m fancy.  Cannot deny it.  There is always something sparkly and chilling in our refrigerator (no matter the time of year), and 9 times out of 10 it is going to include a bottle of this champagne.  Everyone should have a good bottle of champagne on hand; for special occasions, if nothing else. Sometimes after an especially long day, though, it is nice to pop a cork on this fruity (and much too easy going down) bubbly spirit. (Amanda)

Cooking & Food

Better Than Bouillon bases - I grew up cooking with those cute, square cubes of bouillon for soups, stews and the like, but the Better Than Bouillon bases are far and above a better solution for home cooks who like to tweak recipes. These bases are a paste, allowing you to dictate the flavor intensity as you see fit. The brand offers a number of flavor profiles (some Vegan, too) but I always keep beef, chicken and vegetable on hand. (Mary Margaret)

Langres Super Stinky Cheese - I’m officially obsessed with this cheese from Champagne. It’s so stinky I’m required to warn my husband before I open it. No one else in my house wants to share it with me, and I am so fine with that. Traditionally served with Champagne (another classic example of that whole what-grows-together-goes-together adage), Langres is delightful on a thin wafer cracker or toasted baguette, with a couple of Picholine olives to help cut through the intense, luscious creaminess. Oh, and it’s beautiful too. (Maggie) 

Yucatan Guacamole in a squeeze bottle - We keep this in the fridge to use as a condiment on sandwiches and as an addition to salads/dressings. You can find it in the refrigerator section at Wal-Mart next to the sour cream. Because it’s a squeeze bottle, you can squirt some out without air getting to the rest and turning it brown. The avocado content makes it pretty healthy and can raise HDL levels. And it’s delicious. (Cam)

McCormick Gourmet Organic Za'atar Seasoning - My favorite go-to ingredient in my home kitchen these days: The Lawry`s of the Middle East. This interesting little spice blend has earthy notes of thyme, oregano, and sumac. Sumac has a subtle, lemony flavor that brightens this savory spice mix. It’s great for use on roasted turkey, chicken, or fresh vegetables. Mix it with a healthy dose of kosher salt and cracked black pepper, and you have a bold steak rub. Or add into your favorite vinaigrette for salads. Readily available on any spice aisle of any grocery. (Dixie)

Frontera Green Chili Enchilada Sauce - This mild enchilada sauce is my favorite pantry ingredient for stretching leftovers. I can’t stand to waste good protein, but I’m usually tired of it after two meals. With this enchilada sauce, I simply chop any leftover pork/chicken/beef and fold it into a tortilla with cheese, black olives, red onion, and whatever else is in the fridge that needs to be eaten. This 8 oz. package works perfectly for 6-8 enchiladas and freezes beautifully. (Mary Margaret)

Lucini Extra Virgin Olive Oil – Very rarely do I cook with anything except extra virgin olive oil.  It is more expensive than regular olive oil, but it is much healthier for you and does not leave food heavy and oily tasting.  This brand is about $20 per bottle, and I defer to it because it is available in most supermarkets no matter where you live.  Made 100% from Italian olives, it automatically elevates most things I cook. (Amanda)

La Costena Diced Chipotle Peppers - Keep a jar in the fridge to add a little heat and smokiness to any soup or sauce. Add to your heat preference, but about a teaspoon per cup of liquid will perk your tastebuds up. (Cam)

French’s Crispy Jalapeños - Everyone knows about French’s Crispy Fried Onions, but there is a jalapeños version that makes a fantastic topping for your casseroles, soups, chili, and salads. Add them to a charcuterie board, and your guests will love the little spicy accent. The heat is perfect. The crunch is great. (Cam)

Philadelphia Cream Cheese – Yes, this is a very Basic B*#%! item, but it is never NOT in my refrigerator. Having guests over last minute? Throwing a holiday party? Going someplace and need to bring a dish? I defy you not to find hundreds of easy recipes, which use this ingredient, and, let me tell you if there are people in the world who do not like cream cheese I have not met them yet. If I did, I am not entirely sure we could be friends. The loveliest thing about cream cheese, though, is that it almost stands on its own as a dish. Quite often, appetizers requiring this ingredient do not require a dozen other items as well, and it helps take the stress out of cooking.  Am I right, or am I right? (Amanda) 

Bella Sun Luci Sundried Tomatoes - Wal-Mart sells a julienne cut that’s not packed in oil, and they are fantastic in sauces and salads. The flavor is so concentrated, and the texture so meaty, I keep a bag in my pantry at all times. (Cam)

Tools

Half Sheet Pans - The workhorse of my kitchen, half sheet pans are great for baking cookies, making nachos, cooking off a whole pound of bacon, roasting vegetables, and more. Big enough to fit a small spatchcocked turkey, the half sheet size is perfect for home cooks, but also a standard size for when you want to steal recipes from your favorite restaurant which uses whole sheet pans. You just halve the recipe and you’re in business. And you can get 2 of these guys for $12 at Sam’s Club, so you won’t feel bad about putting them through the wringer. Sam’s also sells the quarter-sized sheet pans for smaller tasks so I have a bunch of those as well. (Maggie)

Pre-Cut Parchment Paper Sheets - To keep those half sheet pans looking great longer but more importantly, to be able to rinse them instead of scrub them, find a place to keep some of these pre-cut parchment sheets. They’re 16 x 12 inches, meaning they fit nicely in those 18 x 13-inch half sheet pans. And with the precut sheets, of course, you don’t have to cut them, but also, they don’t roll up on you like cut parchment from a roll does. I have a dedicated drawer in my kitchen that perfectly fits a 1000-sheet box that I buy every couple of years from a restaurant supply store, but for a smaller level of commitment, here’s a 200-sheet pack from Amazon that comes in at a reasonable $14. (Maggie)

Plastic Quart Containers - Ubiquitous in restaurant kitchens, these players should have their own dedicated place in your home too. They’re dishwasher safe, microwave safe, freezer safe, and reusable. And the best thing about these is they come in quart, pint, and cup sizes, but each size uses the same size lid. They stack easily and are easier to dry and store than their Ziploc or Glad counterparts. (Maggie)

De'Longhi Livenza Deep Fryer with Easy Clean System - I just purchased my second deep fryer. After 10 years, the handle for my original Fry Daddy broke, and I couldn’t find a replacement. I decided to upgrade to this baby and I’m very happy with the results. It holds more oil than my last one (it says it holds 1 gallon but it actually holds slightly more) and it has a little spigot that lets you drain off the oil instead of pouring it out of the top. I usually drain off cooled oil into the container it came from, so the spigot makes swift work of that, without the need for a funnel. Plus, almost all of it fits in the dishwasher. It’s the best. If you don’t ever fry, you probably don’t need a countertop deep fryer. On the other hand, if you had your own, you might end up frying a lot more. Also, perhaps off-topic: let’s talk about air fryers. If you’re thinking an air fryer is in any way similar to a deep fryer, get ready for school: an air fryer is a tiny countertop convection oven. It is excellent for heating and re-crisping pre-cooked frozen food (pizza rolls, chicken nuggets, tater tots) and it reheats many leftovers very well, but it will not provide you with yummy fresh Pommes Frites or old-fashioned fried chicken. You can’t use it for things that are battered, like tempura. And fat provides flavor. There I said it. Sorry to proselytize for regularly bathing your food in artery-clogging peanut oil, but holy crap does it make it delicious! (Maggie)

The Ninja Foodi - We have a rule about not bringing new items into the house and kitchen unless something goes out the door at the same time, so I have resisted the Instapot and Ninja cooking trends over the last few years. Well, I got married and a dear friend gave us a Ninja Foodi as a wedding present. It has changed so much about cooking for me. The ability to air fry and pressure cook easily has opened my eyes to a whole new world. I will admit that, at first, I was intimidated by the number of functions. It evenly sautes, slow cooks, pressure cooks, air fries, broils, steams, and much more. Favorite dishes: Morning Star black bean burgers, carnitas, HamBeens soup, and any dried bean dishes. I’ll never go back. (Cam)

Techniques

Homemade Garlic Oil - Something that has been a handy-dandy thing for me, and that I’ve done for the last 30-something years, is to keep a small pan on the stove, preferably a pretty one, full of garlic oil. Simmer fresh, peeled garlic in your favorite oil until it’s soft. Both the roasted garlic and the oil have tons of different uses. Replenish as needed; no need to refrigerate. (Trish) 

Homegrown Dried Sage - ‘Tis the Season! During the holidays there are a few things I MUST have! I want it to “smell” like Christmas! I want it to “look” like Christmas. And above all, I need it to “taste” like Christmas. Once I have all of those things in place, it begins to “feel” like Christmas! The #1 item for me is homegrown dried sage. My husband grows sage in the summer in our tiny garden. We dry tons of it and put them in pretty jars for family and friends. It’s a must-have for me as I prepare the Christmas Dressing. The amazing thing about sage is the aroma will fill the house and is a perfect pairing with Christmas music! (Sylvia)

A Spoonful of Germany in Tupelo

Many years ago when my husband and I began dating we frequently met up Friday night at the end of a long hard week for dinner and drinks.  It is a tradition we keep up to this day.  One of our favorite places at that time employed a friendly and feisty German lady named Margarete.  She was a server about whom we knew very little personally, but she always amused us with very wry sense of humor.

As time went by we learned more and more about Margarete’s background, her migrating to Mississippi from Germany many moons ago, as well as her aspirations for opening her own bakery right here in Tupelo, Mississippi.  Apparently, all that time Margarete was a talented baker and cook, and we had no idea.  Before we knew it, Simply Sweet By Margarete  opened up right here in downtown Tupelo, and was gangbusters from the day she opened the doors.  I married a meat and potatoes kind of man, but even his fussy self loves this café and bakery.

Margarete’s unassuming little haunt offers lunch options that always satisfy.  I’m partial to her salad specials such as the trio of homemade potato salad, chicken salad, and fresh greens.  If you are looking for something heartier there are a range of sandwich options and soups made daily.  Of course, it would not be a German café without some sauerkraut and bratwurst on the menu, which it does.  My favorite lunch days at Simply Sweet are when there is a lunch special, which is distinctly German and delicious.  Recently, one such special of which I could not get enough was the Schnitzel with mushrooms and gravy spread over rotini pasta, and a side boiled purple cabbage.  Scrumptious.  

What really differentiates Margarete’s little piece of heaven from other soup and sandwich places is THE BREAD.  All of the sandwiches are made with Margarete’s homemade breads, and all soups and salads come with slices of her to- die-for sourdough.  If that is not enough for you, there are cakes, pies, and cookies made in house, which are almost impossible to resist (I speak from plenty of experience).  

Besides excellent German cuisine and desserts, you will almost always see Margarete herself walking around her bakery and eatery greeting every patron and thanking everyone for patronizing her business.  She is truly grateful Tupelo has rallied around her and her business and we all, in turn, cannot get enough.  When the holidays approach, I always place an order for several of her desserts.  My only agonizing decision is WHICH desserts.  

I have often spoken of my pet peeve of people hollering at me to “eat local!” I appreciate the sentiment but, to be honest, sometimes “local” places just are not automatically good.  However, you will not be disappointed if you patronize our “local” German lady’s das restaurant.

Expectations Being Met at Mary Mahoney’s

Growing up on the Mississippi Gulf Coast it was always clear “The Coast” (as we all call it) lives in the shadow of the great City of New Orleans, which is only an hour west of it.  When most people think of really fresh, decadent seafood, and the dining establishments that serve these mouth-watering dishes, their mind almost always wanders to New Orleans and all of its historical restaurants.  Not to take anything away from those amazing establishments (I’m sure I’ll be writing about some of those places on this very blog in the near future), but The Coast has a place or 2 to brag about itself: first, and foremost, being Mary Mahoney’s.

Located right off the beach in Biloxi, the Mary Mahoney’s building was built in the early 1700s by a Frenchman who designed it in a traditional French architectural style: high ceilings, intimate dining rooms, and a beautiful courtyard.  It was a residential property until purchased by the Mahoneys in 1962.  From that time on, it could boast of feeding President Ronald Reagan and Vice-President George Bush on the White House Lawn, and has survived catastrophic hurricanes and, most recently, a global pandemic.  While this foodie can appreciate beautiful architecture and history, it takes a backseat to the wine and FOOD.

Mary Mahoney’s is a place I always heard people speak of when I was growing up, but it was known as a fancy grown up place I was not going to have the luxury of trying any time soon.    Being an avid reader since as far back as I can recall, I clearly remember reading John Grisham novels all throughout high school, and being amazed when Mary Mahoney’s was the setting for one of the most famous scenes in The Runaway Jury when the sequestered jury marches into Mary Mahoney’s much to the shock of the presiding judge on the case who is enjoying a persnickety lunch with his colleagues.  I needed to eat at this place!

This all added to the lore of Mary Mahoney’s to me so, when I finally did reach adulthood and made it there, my hopes were high, high, high.  Since first going, I have been lucky enough to eat at Mary Mahoney’s a dozen or so times now, and it is not an exaggeration to say it is nothing short of phenomenal every single time I am lucky enough to dine there all the way from the cuisine to the exceptional service.

Whenever my husband and I make it back to Biloxi, he invariably asks me “did you make us a reservation at Mary Mahoney’s?”  It is just THAT GOOD.  His favorite item on the menu is the seafood gumbo – I believe that man could eat it by the gallon.  I like to start with their shrimp cocktail and continue on with one of their “Crabmeat Imperial” selections, which is an insanely delicious homemade crabmeat stuffing that can be ordered stuffed in several different kinds of seafood – you will think you have died and gone to foodie heaven once you have tried the Flounder Imperial or Lobster Imperial on a bed of creamy pasta.  Great care is taken to serve  traditional French creole food at its best here and, yet, they make it appear simple.

Sop it up with some of their crusty French bread, wash it down with a chilled white wine, and I defy you to say you have ever had a better meal. 5 out of 5 pours.

Making Dining at Home Feel Like an "Occasion"

Restaurant reviews are my typical beat on this blog.  Unfortunately, quarantine has put a damper on this foodie’s travels lately; whether in light of COVID-19 and its dining restriction or being locked up in the middle of a winter ice storm.  That does not mean that dining at home cannot be fun or without whimsy, though.

When I first moved in with my boyfriend/now husband several years ago, one night I threw together a simple little cheese plate for us to snack on while waiting on dinner to finish cooking.  He loved it, and it has become a staple in our house ever since.  What once started out as a couple of types of cheese and some sliced apples has evolved into a full-blown Charcuterie Board. 

I’m proud to say it has become somewhat of a calling card when we have guests over, or when we are guests in others’ homes – everyone expects me to put together one of my “boards.”  While it sounds easy enough, it is more than just throwing items on a platter – I have been known to put an inordinate amount of thought into my boards, and have spent more than a few hours in the “gourmet” section of the store scrutinizing cheeses, assorted nuts, etc.  

There are many things, in my opinion, that make a charcuterie board irresistible but, first and foremost, is variety – size matters, my friends.  Pile it high with as many different delectable you have on hand:  hard and soft cheeses, cured meats, crackers/wafers, mixed nuts, perhaps some spreads (I’m partial to a little spreadable pimento cheese – the southerner in me, I guess), and don’t forget that colorful fruit!  Make it pop.  

The beautiful thing about having variety is that there will be something on there for everyone.  I literally cannot remember a time when I put a board together and every single person present did not nibble on at least one of the items I had assembled.  And it does not have to be a holiday, special occasion, or include guests.  Many a night I am happy to put thought and effort into a board for just the hubs and me.  It’s always fun.

Perhaps the most enticing aspect of diving into a charcuterie board, for me at least, is that you can drink what you want with it.  Red wine, white wine, tequila (ha!) – it all can work with it!   

If you have resisted doing your own boards because it seems like too much work, or you don’t know where to start, start small as I did and start honing those skills.  

You will love it and others will, too. Cheers!

To Live and (Fine) Dine in Mississippi

I live in Mississippi.  A State, which can boast of great writers, down-home cooking, and that “southern hospitality” thing of which you always hear is actually a REAL thing in these parts.  It’s not always easy for this foodie, though, to find restaurants with fine cuisine and, most importantly, a decent wine selection to accompany that cuisine. I’m sure I may be only one of three southerners who just can’t get excited about eating barbeque – stone me now!  It’s akin to trying to scratch a spot on your back and your itch being just out of reach.

Being the aspiring oenophile I am, I have a monthly subscription to the “Wine Enthusiast” magazine, and every year it ranks the “100 Best Wine Restaurants” in the United States.  Imagine my excitement when reviewing the list for 2019, and I saw a restaurant from Mississippi has FINALLY made the list!  I made a note of it (since I live 3 hours from Jackson, Mississippi) and vowed the next time I found myself in Jackson, I would eat at Caet Seafood Oysterette.  As luck would have it, 2 months ago, some friends and I met up in Jackson for a weekend, and I told them this just had to be one of the places we tried.  I got no complaints, so off we went on our dining adventure.

Caet offers both indoor and outdoor dining options, as well as seats at its Oyster Bar.  The inside of the restaurant was a little noisy for my liking, but it definitely had the vibe of a trendy wine bar, which just happens to offer up delicious fare from Chef Derek Emerson (no stranger to other successful eateries in Jackson).

Their wine list did not let me down.  Besides providing an extensive selection, it takes the impressive further of step of offering actual drinkable wines by the glass (sadly, that is rare), half bottles, and full bottles.  Some of my companions prevailed upon me to select a bottle for us to share, which, admittedly, can sometimes cause no small amount of anxiety on my part.  Nobody wants to be the rube that picked out a bottle of wine for the table that tastes like cough syrup.  Fortunately, the 2006 Rioja I selected drew rave reviews from the table.  

Favorites at our table included the melt in your mouth Wood-Oven Baked Crab Fondue with warm crostini, the Jumbo Sea Scallops with sweet corn risotto and tomato parm broth and, my personal favorite, the Breadless Jumbo Lump Crab Cake soaking in tarragon lemon butter (beyond decadent).

This experience pleased my palate on all levels, and I’m heartened to see our great State is expanding its culinary options, and these establishments surviving during the days of our COVID pandemic makes it all the more reason to raise our glasses and say “Cheers.” I give it 5 out of 5 pours.

A Love Letter to Lake City, Colorado

I have been going out west on my husband’s motorcycle with him every Summer for the past 12 years, so those who know us are always asking about our favorite towns, restaurants, etc.  There are too many beautiful places, and wonderful places to eat, to ever definitively name JUST one place.  A little town named Lake City, Colorado, wormed its way into my heart a long time ago, though.

Once a mining town, Lake City it a quiet little place nestled in the San Juan Mountains, and a population of less than 500 people.  It’s your quintessential 1-horse kind of town.  Don’t expect swinging nightlife, a good internet connection, or a chain restaurant or hotel of any kind.  On my first time spending the night in Lake City I asked the server at our restaurant where a good place in town was to get a manicure.  She literally laughed in my face.  Sigh.

I soon came to learn, though, this is a place to which you come for breathtaking views, fresh air, a chance to hear yourself think, and good food & hospitality.  A place to recharge your batteries.  A place where you greet the elk on your walk to dinner.

Lake City gained a little notoriety and a place on the map (as it were) in the late 1800s when a man named Alferd Packer was charged with murdering and cannibalizing some prospectors with whom he was serving as a tour guide.  After being stranded with the prospectors without provisions, he returned alone & surprisingly healthy.  He was arrested, escaped, later captured in Wyoming, and returned to Lake City to face trial; the jury found him guilty for the murder of one of the prospectors.  He was ordered to be hanged but underwent many trials & appeals.  In the end, he was paroled in the early 1900s.

Fortunately, there are less desperate dining options in Lake City these days.

When you wake up in the morning, it is well worth the mile or so walk down the road to eat breakfast at the Lake City Bakery.  Everything and I mean everything, behind their counter is homemade and baked fresh daily.  I’m partial to the cream cheese pastries myself, but there are both savory and sweet options from which to choose.  Pies, pastries, fresh bread, and coffee whilst sitting outside are a little piece of Heaven.

When it comes to dinner in Lake City, there is only one place to dine as far as I’m concerned:  Climb Elevated Eatery.  Linda Lovegreen and Jerry Johnson opened this establishment a few years ago after years of dreaming of it; she cooks and runs the kitchen, and he keeps the front of the house friendly and welcoming.  Their restaurant derives its name from Lake City itself, as it is a place where visitors come to hike, ATV, ride bikes, etc., to the surrounding higher elevations.

The beautiful thing about Climb Elevated Eatery is that it offers excellent food without pretentiousness, and the menu offers enough variety to scratch whatever itch you have that particular day – pasta, wild game, and fresh fist.  You can dine inside or out, and it will usually be Jerry himself serving you and making sure you are comfortable.

I highly recommend the charcuterie board (mostly farm to table ingredients), the fettuccine alfredo (so creamy!), and some of Jerry’s homemade cocktails!  I always leave there full and happy, so it deserves 5 out of 5 pours. 🍷🍷🍷🍷🍷

Like so many cool and amazing places, I fear it is only a matter of time before Lake City becomes touched by the outside world and commercialized.  As for now, though, I think of it is a little oasis in which I’m lucky enough to spend a few days every year completely shut off from the outside world.  Don’t knock it until you’ve tried it.

Dreaming of My Return to the “Land of Enchantment”

When I started dating my now-husband 11 years ago, he talked a lot about his annual pilgrimage out west for a few weeks on his motorcycle.  I was somewhat taken aback when he suggested one day I go with him on his next trip.  While it definitely sounded like an adventure, I was not entirely sure it would be my scene at all.  My close friends were even more opinionated about it, and the general consensus was “you’re going to hate it.  Period.”

My friends had a point.  I’m a stiletto-loving clotheshorse whose idea of relaxation is reading a good book while I sip tea from my vintage tea set – NOT wearing unflattering motorcycle boots, t-shirts, & slathering myself in sunscreen.  However, I was really into my then-boyfriend and did not want to disappoint him, so off we went.

I’d be lying if I said that the first trip did not have its challenges.  That first couple of days brought ungodly heat, sun poisoning which resulted in a left eye so swollen I could not see out of it for a few days, and I had never felt that exhausted in my entire life.  My husband knew I was suffering and was giving me worried looks, but I’m nothing if not stubborn & maintained a cheery façade.  I no longer had to pretend, though, when we got to New Mexico on the 3rd day, and it was stunningly gorgeous.  The landscape had entirely changed:  red rock, cacti, real mountains, and a lovely breeze.  I understood immediately why the State motto is “Land of enchantment.”

To this day, I still believe my husband took me to the town of Taos, New Mexico, on that first trip as a reward for me being a trooper and not complaining.  He knew I’d love it.  Taos is a funky, artsy town in the high desert – great dining, plenty of galleries and museums, and historic adobe buildings, which gives the town its own charm and character.  

There are several dining establishments located in Taos I could discuss, but the standout for me time and again has been Lambert’s of Taos.  Lambert’s is fine dining, but it does not feel pretentious.  The staff is beyond accommodating, and there is no dress code.  Their menu is never the same when we go, so it is always a real treat to see what is on the seasonal menu, or what the specials are that particular day – last time, their dinner specials included an offering of kangaroo fillet.  I chose not to sample the marsupial, but I appreciated the option nonetheless.

I have eaten many wonderful dinners at Lambert’s (no bad meals there), including a mouth-watering Caesar salad followed by a southern fried Cornish game hen with collard greens, and a bison ribeye with arugula salad, just to name a few things.  And the wine never disappoints me.

It deserves 5 out of 5 pours. 

That first trip out west was a learning experience, to be sure, but I knew I’d go back again after that first trip, & my love of it all started in New Mexico.  After 11 years together, 8 years of marriage, it is not even a question anymore of whether the hubs and I are heading west on the motorcycle at the end of the Summer but, rather, WHEN are we heading west?  It’s a good life, kids….

Taking “Flight” in Memphis flightmemphis.com

If you follow this little blog, or are just getting acquainted with it, you will notice we have some amazing chefs as contributors to it.  They all share amazing recipes, which I love to try out at home.  My scene, however, is sharing my dining out experiences with all of you and, hopefully, giving helpful reviews.  In the process, I hope maybe you will all try some of these places; or, perhaps, return to them again once your mouth starts watering.

Weekend trips out of town feed my soul, literally and figuratively.  The City of Memphis is an hour and a half from our home, so it is a favorite when my husband and I get the itch (which, admittedly, is often) to just get away for a few nights for a change of scenery and good eats.

I have not seen Memphis in a long time thanks to our unexpected (and unwelcome) visitor of 2020, COVID-19.  I get wistful, though, thinking about all of the remarkable food I’m missing out on in Memphis.  While it is difficult to select just one place, which makes my palate dance in utter delight, a favorite haunt I return to again and again is Flight.  A group of my closest friends and I go on a trip to some place different every year and last year we chose Memphis – when we were choosing places to eat I did not hesitate to say “We have to eat at Flight.”  The girls were NOT disappointed in my selection.

Located downtown, the vibe is very fancy, indeed, but it is a welcoming atmosphere and the staff is always on its game.  It is a little noisy, though, so if you are looking for a place where you can hear a pin drop this may not be ideal for you.

“Flight” derives its name from the fact that you can create your own flights of wine and food. For this hopeless foodie and wine consumer, I find this unbelievably fun.  I always get several different glasses of wine, and the food menu is endless with possibilities to mix and match.  Caution:  You will be tempted to try one of everything on the menu!  Remember, you still have to button your pants, kids.

The magnificent meal the girls and I shared included a charcuterie board (no one loves a charcuterie board more than this gal) of assorted game, cheeses, homemade pickles, and fresh fruit.  My dinner flight was Louisiana Redfish topped with Jumbo Lump Crab Meuniere and a Bourson Stuffed Filet over a potato puree with red wine bourdelaise.  If you’re not getting the least bit peckish while reading this I am just going to assume you are a hot pocket kind of person.  

Charcuterie board of assorted game, cheeses, homemade pickles, and fresh fruit

Louisiana Redfish topped with Jumbo Lump Crab Meuniere

Bourson Stuffed Filet over a potato puree with red wine bourdelaise

One of my friends is a vegetarian, and they even offer vegetarian flights of food – this was much appreciated, as many restaurants often just throw some bland pasta at her when she asks about vegetarian options when we dine out together.

Everything was washed down with much wine, of course, and the table was all smiles at the end of the night.  Can’t ask for anything better than that.  Take “flight” next time you are in Memphis.  You’ll thank me!

5 out of 5 enthusiastic pours!  🍷🍷🍷🍷🍷

My Last Supper (Before the Quarantine)

Ok, it goes without saying that we are living through a very strange time right now, and it is affecting every part of our lives.  While it is obviously of utmost importance we all do every thing we can to remain safe and healthy in the days of COVID-19, I would be outright lying if I said I was not truly missing dining out with my hubs and our friends.  After a long, exhausting week nothing is better than getting a little dressed up, going to a restaurant with people you care about for some conversation, and letting someone else cook you a nice meal while you enjoy cocktails and unwind.

It feels like it has been a year since I have had the pleasure of dining out but, in actuality, it has been only a month.  Alas, it looks like it will be at least another month before I will have that feeling again. The silver lining throughout all of this is it has made me infinitely appreciative of all the local eateries I take for granted.

One such local place I would recommend to anyone looking for a good dinner in the City of Tupelo is Woody’s Tupelo.  It has an elegant, casual atmosphere, and an extremely friendly and helpful staff.  

Fresh Spinach Salad with Bacon Bits, Hard Boiled Eggs, Croutons and Balsamic Vinaigrette

Duckhorn Vineyards Napa Valley Merlot 2014

The menu has a little bit of everything, depending on your mood – steaks, wild game, and weekly specials to mix things up.  One thing I especially appreciate about Woody’s is that they offer a wine and cocktail menu, but you are welcome to bring your own wine and pay only a small corking fee.  For avid wine drinkers like myself, this is a FANTASTIC thing to offer your patrons.  I wish some other establishments around here would take their lead on this issue.

Our last meal dining out before the self-induced quarantine was at Woody’s, and it was a delicious last supper (as it were).  Started with a fresh spinach salad, which was topped with bacon bits, hard-boiled eggs, homemade croutons, and a sumptuous balsamic vinaigrette.

The showstopper, however, was their special pasta dish for the week, which was a Bayou Seafood pasta.  Corkscrew pasta with blackened shrimp, crawfish, freshly grated parmesan, tomatoes, and scallions. I literally could not stop eating it after I was hurting from being too full.  Topping it off with a nice merlot made me happy, happy, happy.

People are always fond of saying “support local.” I, personally, prefer to say support local when it is GOOD.  And Woody’s is good, my friends. Simple as that.

It deserves 5 out of 5 pours.  🍷🍷🍷🍷🍷

A Toast to Your Grown-Up Self

Sparkling wine began with French monks almost 500 years ago, but it was a certain monk named Dom Perignon who is given credit for creating champagne itself.  There are all kinds of sparkling wine, but the French own the credit for “champagne.”  

That being said, I have a confession to make.  I absolutely hated being a child – everything about it.  Being a grown-up seemed like the best thing in the world.  And you know what? It totally is. And, for me anyway, there is nothing more grown up than drinking champagne.  Think Deborah Kerr and Cary Grant in “An Affair to Remember” aboard that cruise ship drinking champagne together.  

I mean, it just announces to the room “I’m an adult who’s ready to celebrate.”  Although even us grown-ups sometimes like to make our champagne cocktails a little ducky when hanging at the Peabody. 

This time of year more than any other time of year is primetime for drinking champagne.  Does not matter if you are mixing it with orange juice for a little mimosa for breakfast with friends or family, or drinking it straight up when ringing in the New Year with your special someone.   Personally, I like to drink champagne on a slow Tuesday sometimes. Is that odd? Who cares? I’m a grown up and do what I want.

In my household we stick to only French labels.  Moet & Chandon is my favorite, while the hubs is partial to Veuve Cliquot.  Both have been around for a few hundred years, and enjoyed by nobility, so you will not go wrong with either of these if you’re treating yourself, or if you are not used to drinking champagne.  Many are fond of the traditional Dom Perignon as well if you want to go old school. All of these are good straight up, with a little fruit, other liquors such as cognac, etc.

So, over this holiday season, step outside your comfort zone when ordering a cocktail & see what types of champagne specialties are on the menu and try one.  And if you lack confidence on what type of drink to order simply pull a Deborah Kerr and say “champagne cocktail please.” God, she was such a grown up…

A Little Holiday Wine-ing

When I first conceived of this blog in my food-loving little heart last year I knew it had to include discussions about wine. It is a big part of my dining & entertaining life, so my inaugural post devoted to that nectar of the gods is here to help those who might feel a little intimidated by selecting the right type of wines for holiday festivities.

If you are hosting a holiday gathering you MUST offer wine to your guests, but keep it simple: offer a red and a white. Most holiday parties (at least the ones I have attended) are fairly informal; think ugly itchy holiday sweaters and finger foods. People are not going to be questioning the wine’s vintage or the year the grapes were harvested. If they do, throw them out!

That being said, I beg of you to not serve swill at your parties. Yes, I know it is tempting to buy those jumbo bottles, which cost all of $8, and are practically screaming at you from the kiosk as soon as you walk into the liquor store “Buy me, I’m a bargain!!!” However, you can find decent bottles of wine for $15-20 per bottle that your guests who drink wine on a regular basis will appreciate – I cannot count the number of parties the hubs and I have attended which resulted in us discreetly tossing our glass of wine because we JUST COULD NOT DO IT. 🤢 Also, by serving a decent wine to your guests you are performing a public service – those guests who know nothing about wine are getting a taste of what wine SHOULD taste like.

Two selections of red wine that are easy to find at your local liquor store.

White wine tends to be less expensive than red wine.

When serving red wine to your guests, go with a Cabernet or Merlot. Most red wine drinkers will drink those, and every liquor store is going to have decent selection of these varietals. Cabs tend to be dry and full-bodied, whereas a merlot is known to be an easy drinking red. 2 of my favorite $15-$20 bottles of these are Rodney Strong and Charles Krug – both offer Cabernet and Merlot varietals.

In deciding your white wine selection to serve, go with a Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio (or pinot gris, as some call it). Most white wine drinkers defer to one of those. Chardonnays are dry and oaky in flavor and pinot grigio is usually lighter-bodied and fruitier. Really depends on what you are going for. The good news in buying white wine it is almost always less expensive than red wine, in general. Again, Rodney Strong is a strong choice. King Estate carries an excellent $18 pinot gris.

Hopefully, this will help a little with your holiday entertaining. Incidentally, as all of these wines are under $20 you can buy them for your friends, family members, or picky boss, and end up impressing them all without breaking the bank. Now THAT is something to celebrate. Cheers!