Chews & Brews | February 2023

Date Night Dinner and Dessert

Where to Wine & Dine

This February

February

Best Winter Picnic Spots

Date Night Top Picks

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Letter from the Editor

The season of love is upon us this February as we romance it up with holidays like Valentine’s Day. I was inspired to make every night date night with this edition by highlighting some of the top date-night locations throughout Eugene. For those that would rather stay in for the night, we have the perfect dinner and dessert recipe that is sure to get those feelings of love moving in the right direction. The weather may be chilly now, but we’ve got the perfect list of picnic locations for those great sunny days. Check out our other articles that cover how to make healthy swaps to your everyday diet, a review of a fancy new bar called The Crow & the Cart, a highlight of some of the delicious food carts at PublicHouse, and let us introduce you to a Eugene couple that are feeding the community one recipe at a time.

Lauren Leone

Meet The Team

Special Sections Editor

Lauren Leone

Cover Photo

Gustavo Del Real

Figueroa

Layout Design

Kaity VanHoose

Special Sections Writers

Isabella Albin

Sydney Johnson

Elijah Newman

Reilly Norgren

Georgia Tucker

Sydney Chen

Lizzy Lee

Kelsie Heffernan

Illustrations

Dani DeGraw

Mia Lee

Special Sections Photographers

Sydney Chen

Henry Cohen

Sophia Craft

Gustavo Del Real Figueroa

Beck Parsons

Student Sales Manager

Amy Mendez

Account Managers

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Maxwell Goldenberg

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Riley Valle

Business

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Bill Kunerth

bkunerth@dailyemerald.com

VP Operations

Kathy Carbone

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Chews & Brews is published by Emerald Media Group, Inc., the independent nonprofit media company at the University of Oregon. Formerly the Oregon Daily Emerald; the news organization was founded in 1900.

Director of Sales

Shelly Rondestvedt

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Creative & Technical Director

Anna CK Smith

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Cooking and Community

at the Hearth and Table

At the Hearth and Table community dinner, the warm smell of dal radiates out of the kitchen. The clanging of pots mixes with the sound of sizzling pans and friendly chatter. About six University of Oregon students are gathered around a center island. They’re busy chopping veggies, whipping cream, and filling up boxes with the food they’ve made from scratch.

clafoutis cake. The food is beautiful, healthy, and often vegan and glutenfree. The kicker? It’s all free of charge, no strings attached. You’ll find the magic happening here at the First Presbyterian Church (right across from the cemetery) every Thursday at 6:30 p.m.

The atmosphere at Hearth and Table is ideal for bringing people together. The food is served family-style at the center of circular tables where you can bring your friends to mix with the hodgepodge of diners. On the Thursday I visited, the meal sold out within minutes of opening, to the delight of the workers and regulars. They hope that the popularity continues to grow.

Leading the kitchen crew is Ryan JosefMaier, a professional chef with decades of experience. Each week, he trains and passes down his wealth of knowledge — teaching the students how to chop onions seems to be a specialty. He co-heads the operation with the help of his wife, Clare. The couple are as warm and welcoming as the food itself.

“We thought: what if we had a meal for students - but we taught them to cook too?” said Clare, “What if we fed them, but had a community kitchen style program where the students would participate in making the food?”

Written by Sydney Johnson

Photos by Sophia Craft

goes into Hearth and Table each week. Their passion for the service is infectious, and they’ll have you believing in the power of a good meal.

Hearth and Table is run with the help of student volunteer workers. Tonight, they’re cooking up vegan split pea dal, cabbage salad, and a chocolate-cherry

They started the program in 2018 as an active response to the plight of student food insecurity. While this all takes place in a church, they promise it’s a safe and inclusive place for anyone to eat, no questions asked. Clare and Ryan organize, plan, and prep all the work that

“It’s about bringing people together,” Ryan says, “It’s about seeing the same people keep coming back. This weekly dinner community forms and it’s really eclectic.”

From the organizers to the volunteers, to the diners — everyone gathered is taking part in the shared goodwill. It’s not every day you see a dream become a reality before your eyes; we can’t help but cheer seeing Clare and Ryan’s vision become such a huge success.

Best Winter Picnic Spots

Written by Georgia Tucker Photos Henry Cohen

Even though we are stuck in the middle of winter and it’s been quite chilly lately, that doesn’t mean picnic season has to be over. Picnics are a great way to spend time with friends, or that special someone. Get ready to bundle up and explore as I walk you down the path to finding the perfect picnic spot for you!

Before we begin, here is a list of picnic essentials that you might want to consider bringing along:

1. Picnic blanket (duh)

2. Basket or bag to hold the food

3. Snacks and drinks

4. Board games/card games

5. Wireless Speaker

The first picnic spot is Alton Baker Park. At the park, you will find many large open fields that are perfect for spreading out your picnic blanket. There is even a duck pond filled with lots of our duck friends. Whether you are driving, hiking, or biking, Alton Baker is very accessible to everyone. Being surrounded by the park’s beauty and liveliness is very relaxing, especially when you are listening to some low-fi beats on your portable speaker. I have fond memories of picnics that I had last year around this time.

Last year I had a pizza picnic with my partner. We ended up ordering a pizza from Hey Neighbor, along with a few sweets from Market of Choice. We spent hours at the park, talking and playing board games. If you really want to get deep with your partner or your friends, I recommend that you play; We are not really strangers. It’s one of my core memories that I will never forget.

The second picnic spot that you have to check out is one of Eugene’s local staple pieces. It’s great for people that are active and want to venture out a little bit away from the city. Spencer’s Butte is a beautiful hike with a view. The hike itself is very mild until the trek up the hill, toward the end. Once you reach the top there is plenty of space for you to relax and enjoy some snacks and beverages. You might even get a visit from one or more friendly squirrels. Be careful, they are attracted to cliff bars.

Spencer’s Butte is at the top of my list for go-to spots. It’s a very peaceful place with lots of beautiful, tall trees. In the last two years, I have made many memories there, spending time with my friends and family, having picnics, and exploring the woods. It’s a place where you can feel at home.

The third picnic spot is Skinners Butte. This is a perfect place for people who love a great view. In the evening you can drive to the top of the lookout point and watch the sunset. You might even want to fold down the seats in your car so that you can bundle up with a cozy blanket. It’s also a perfect spot to watch a movie on your laptop or break out the board games. This spot in particular can be really popular so just take into account that parking may be tricky.

Some of the best days that I’ve had in Eugene so far have been spending time with my friends, eating good food, listening to the latest hits, and just being silly. Going on picnics is a great chance to do all of these things together in one place. It gives you a chance to unwind and relax after a week full of studying. Spending quality time with the people that make you happy is what picnics are all about. Plus, you get to eat lots of delicious snacks!

Where to Wine and Dine this February

Written by Isabella Albin, Photos by Gustavo Del Real Figueroa

Love is in the air for what feels like the entire month of February. This might leave you watching Pride and Prejudice on repeat, or checking your bank statements. Either way, you deserve a nice meal to celebrate your love or yourself. Eat some good food, drink a good drink, and before you know it you’ll be happy.

START YOUR DAY WITH

Our Daily Bread

88170 Territorial Hwy, Veneta, OR 97487

Just 30 minutes out of Eugene, Our Daily Bread is serving up breakfast, lunch, and baked goods out of a converted church. With stained glass windows and a lush patio, Our Daily Bread is the perfect place for a cute quiet breakfast.

Hideaway Bakery

3377 E Amazon Dr, Eugene, OR 97405

Tucked behind another restaurant, this bakery has fresh breads, pastas, and treats, but the star of the show has to be its breakfast menu. It’s hard to go wrong with a breakfast sandwich on a croissant or a lox bagel.

Jazzy Ladies Cafe & Club

560 Oak St Suite 130, Eugene, OR 97401

If you like waffles, stop here and call it a day because you won’t want to leave. If waffles aren’t your thing don’t worry, there are plenty of other options. Breakfast Enchiladas and Harissa Sweet Potato Hash can’t be missed.

KEEPIN IT CASUAL WITH

Xicha

747 E 32nd Ave Suite B, Eugene, OR 97405

Eugene’s new Latine brewery has it all. A rotating tap list brings new options for any occasion, and an epic menu will keep you coming back for more. Tacos, empanadas, nachos, and many others will blow you away.

ColdFire

263 Mill St, Eugene, OR 97401

Maybe you don’t know what you want to eat, but you do know you want something to drink. Head over to ColdFire Brewing, they have beer galore and four different food trucks that will satisfy any craving.

Izakaya Meiji Co.

345 Van Buren St, Eugene, OR 97402

When you are working with a budget, but don’t want to sacrifice taste or quality, go to Izakaya Meiji Co. This Japanese tavern offers comfort food and great shareable small plates.

Ambrosia

174 E Broadway, Eugene, OR 97401

If it’s a wine night, go to Ambrosia. This is a classic upscale Italian restaurant with a mile-long wine list. What makes this place special is the Oregon twist that they have Italian staples. PNW scallops? Yes, please!

Rye

444 E 3rd Ave, Eugene, OR 97401

Paris is the City of Lights, which makes Eugene the city of… well maybe it doesn’t matter. Rye is known for its french food, right here in the dirty Eug. For an intimate night with the good stick-to-your-bones food, Rye has it. Consider making a reservation for a stress-free night!

Cafe Soriah

384 W 13th Ave, Eugene, OR 97401

Maybe love isn’t enough to keep you warm. Luckily, Cafe Soriah has a heated patio. This Mediterranean restaurant has everything from vegetarian eggplant curries to braised lamb shanks.

The Vintage

837 Lincoln St, Eugene, OR 97401

Last, but certainly not least, is the iconic Vintage. This is Eugne’s top date night spot. Couples keep coming back for the memories and indulgent menu. Crepes and fondue is a great place to start any new relationship.

Whether or not you’re going on a date to any of these restaurants, they’re so good it won’t matter. Nothing beats a warm hearty meal and you’ll be able to find that from anywhere on this list!

Oh Lord, That’s Good

Written by Elijah Newman, Photos by Sydney Chen

I thoroughly enjoyed washing down fish tacos and cajun fries with a crisp local Pilsner. I sat in the main dining area facing a long, gorgeously wooded beer hall. High ceilings, pane-glass windows, and comfortable booths with confessionlike wood carvings featured the scene. In the middle of this dining area is an even longer, Medieval-like table resembling 14th-century feasts. But even on a weekday, it was great to see plenty of people laughing, savoring the vibe, and gathering with coworkers, friends, and

There’s nothing quite like God’s presence as food and whiskey and beer make your evening even cozier. Public House, a food court located at 418 A St in Springfield, Oregon, offers an indoor beer hall, whiskey lab, multiple food pods, and an outdoor bar in the heart of town, less than ten minutes from Eugene. What makes Public House unique is that it’s the former home to the First Christian Church. Food and drinks occupy this warm, welcoming setting— the perfect place to be with family or pregame with friends. Fisherman’s Market, Moi Poki Grill, NW Burgers Annex, Pizza Cue, Squacho’s, and sweet finishers like O’My! Mini Donuts and Sweet Bay Shaved Ice set up shop inside this beautiful, mahogany church.

Public House even holds events like trivia nights, live music performances on the lawn, and yoga & beer on Sundays… which at first might seem counterintuitive but it’s hard to beat a body buzz and a good stretch, right? But Public House also features special events like the Inaugural Bourbon Street Fest from February 6th to the 12th, and more inspired, cultural occasions down the road. You get entertainment, a plethora of whiskey, food, happy friends, and a wide variety of different beers.

I had the opportunity of checking out Public House on a Tuesday night. I recommend taking that extra minute and deciding which food cart suits you best because of all the different options.

family for a comforting end to their day. If indoors feels too gothic, there’s outdoor seating—with an insulated tent for colder nights—just a step away from the whiskey lab. It includes a homey, intimate bar—presenting a backdrop filled with varied, golden whiskey bottles. The smell is most prominent: a rustic, mapley scent tenderly drapes the room. It’s safe to say we all need warm food, drinks, and a higher presence during the winter. However, when spring rolls along—as the weather gets warmer and the sun shines brighter—Public House will be the place to be: hanging outside, listening to music, eating delicious food, and letting your inhibitions dwindle.

Date Night Dinner & Dessert

Written by Reilly Norgren, Illustrations by Dani DeGraw

For a quiet, intimate ‘date night in’ look no further than a pasta recipe. It’s simple enough to make, and you can add just enough flair to impress. This recipe is a red sauce pasta that is creamy and tastes perfectly savory! And for later in the evening, a sweet dessert to balance everything out.

Penne Alla (No) Vodka:

Ingredients:

- 1 pound penne pasta

- 1⁄2 yellow onion

- 3-4 crushed garlic cloves

- 2 tablespoons tomato paste

- 1 cup heavy whipping cream

- Grated parmesan cheese (as much as you want)

- Basil leaves (optional, garnish)

- Chili flakes (optional)

- 2 tablespoons olive oil

- Salt

Instructions:

- Bring pasta to boil in a pot of heavily salted water

- In a skillet over medium heat add 2 tablespoons olive oil. When simmering add the crushed garlic and chopped onion, with a pinch of salt

- Cook, stirring occasionally until the garlic is browned slightly. Add the chili flakes now if you are choosing to

- Add in the tomato paste and cook for about two minutes or until the paste darkens in color. Add a few spoonfuls of the pasta water to loosen the sauce

- Reduce heat to low and add the heaving whipping cream. Stir until combined

- Drain the pasta and put it in the skillet and stir to coat in the sauce

- You’re finished! Put into bowls and garnish with parmesan cheese, basil leaves, and salt

- 1 1⁄2 cups white sugar

- 4 eggs

- 2 teaspoons lemon extract

- 1⁄2 teaspoon lemon zest

- 1 1⁄2 cups fresh chopped strawberries

- 3 cups all-purpose flour

- 1 teaspoon baking powder

- 1⁄2 teaspoon baking soda

- 1⁄2 teaspoon salt

- 1⁄2 miniature chocolate chips

Instructions:

- Preheat oven to 350 degrees

- Mix lemon juice and milk- let stand for 5 minutes

- Line muffin tins with paper liners

- Cream together butter and sugar in a large bowl

- Beat in the eggs one at a time and then add the lemon extract

- Gradually add the lemon zest and your milk mix from earlier

- Fold in the chopped strawberries

- In another bowl stir together the flour, baking soda, and salt

- Mix together the butter mixture and the flour mixture

- Fold in chocolate chips

- Spoon batter into the muffin tins until each cup is about 2⁄3 full

- Sprinkle muffin batter with white sugar

- Bake for about 30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean

- Let cool, then serve (or just eat right out of the pan!)

Healthy Swaps for a Healthier You

Written by Lizzy Lee, Illustrations by Mia Lee

Trying to have a healthier diet is a common New Year’s resolution for many people. While we are already one month into the new year, we can still make changes to be our healthiest selves. With these food swap suggestions, you can make small changes to your diet every day and sustainably head towards your goals.

Voluminous Snacks

I’m a big snacker. Especially as a college student on the go, it’s easy to grab a packaged snack before heading out the door. While it gets me by, I don’t always pick the most nutritious foods to snack on. One tip I have for fellow snackers is to choose voluminous foods. I personally really like popcorn like Skinny Pop. The volume to calories ratio is high with 40 calories per 1 cup. I’m a Costco girl so I get the supersize bags, but it is also sold in 100-calorie portioned bags.

High-volume foods also include fruits. I like to throw in a couple of mandarin oranges in my bag before I go to school. Fruits like oranges are great for on-the-go because they are naturally packaged in their peel so you don’t have to use any plastic to pack them.

Greens Over Whites

Vegetables, especially leafy greens, are very good for a balanced diet. There is a demonization of white starches and carbs like white rice and potatoes. I do think that white starches have their place in our diets, but if you want an alternative, switch to leafy greens. Vegetables are full of vitamins, fiber, and minerals. If you’re eating a poke bowl for example, maybe try some salad instead of white rice or half and half.

Nuts

As a snacker, I love to eat chips either on the go or when I’m watching a show. The problem is that most chips are processed and high in sodium and bad fats with little nutritional value. Healthy alternatives for salty, crunchy food are nuts. Nuts are a nutritious swap that contains healthy fats, protein, fiber, and other nutrients. Just make sure you’re eating them mindfully since nuts are also high in calories.

Dark Chocolate

If you have a sweet tooth like me, you could try having dark chocolate as a swap for your usual sweets. I don’t encourage you to completely ban baked goods from your diet because it can lead to a dangerous, restrictive path, but moderation is key. Quality dark chocolate’s main ingredient is cocoa and has less fat and sugar than other chocolate. Dark chocolate still contains fat and sugar but it also contains antioxidants, fiber, and minerals.

Take all these suggestions with a grain of salt. I’m not a licensed nutritionist or dietitian. These are all food swaps I’ve made in my personal life. By no means am I telling you that any one food is bad and you should never consume it. The goal is to find what works best for you and your lifestyle.

Local Business Spotlight: Crow and Cart

Written by Kelsie Heffernan,

Photos

by Sydney Chen

If you’re not one for the typical college bar scene, look no further than Crow and Cart. This new woman-owned and run bar in Eugene is located in the Whiteaker neighborhood on Blair Blvd. It has a warm and welcoming ambiance with rustic decor and offers a classy take on a fun night out. Their menu regularly switches specialty drinks, but they always have a full bar as well as beer and cider on tap. In the summer, there is an outdoor patio area perfect for warm nights out with friends. They always use fresh ingredients in their mixes and everything is handcrafted.

Writer’s Favorite Drink

My favorite drink of the night was a hazelnut espresso martini, a nutty and rich drink that was dangerously good (and I ended up having two of them). I also enjoyed a passion fruit margarita and a creamy ginger mocktail.

Bartender Spotlight

The founder and owner of Crow and Cart, Tina McGill has been bartending and in the service industry for over 25 years and decided it was finally time to open a place of her own when her friends bought the building during the pandemic. She says she loves working in the Whiteaker neighborhood, that it has so much character and characters and she’s really enjoyed getting to know everyone. She loves that it is a woman-owned business, and her team is women who have been working with her for years, so she loves that they’re all in on the venture together and it’s a pleasure to get to work with them every day.

Tina’s Drink Spotlights

Here to Slay: A champagne cocktail made with luster dust that creates a shimmer and topped with a high antioxidant juice ice cube made of layers of cherry juice, mango, and peach puree so that it’s really three cocktails in one.

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