TownTaster M
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April 2012
Looking for something to do? Flip to our calendar on page 5
Delightful Dishes for a Spring Sunday morning
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Volume 1 • Issue 4
Alternative Diets & Dining Out S e r i e s 1: V e g e t a r i a n
Our TownTasters visit Panda Buffet & The Grill at O'Bricks this Month
Featuring:
Pages 12-13
We want to know! Tell us what your tastes are and be entered to win!
The Three Kitcheneers These girls know their food... A tasty spin on a classic dish!
w w w.To w nTa s t e r. c o m
SUBSCRIBE TODAY - FREE!
Dive into From the Editor
April 2012 Volume 1, Issue 4 Publisher
PCI Publishing, LLC
Editor
Valerie Longo 941-932-8884
Web Design
Syd Krawczyk Concept Digital Media
Social Media Lenny Longo
Town Taster and PCI Publishing, LLC does not endorse or warrant any products or services contained herein, unless otherwise expressly noted. The opinions expressed herein are those of the authors. Submitted materials will not be returned. Whole or part of this publication may not be used or duplicated in any way without written permission from PCI Publishing, LLC. Advertising rates and information available from: PCI Publishing, LLC, 1202 Gary Avenue, Suite 13, Ellenton, FL 34222 Phone: 941-548-1908 Town Taster is published monthly. Subscriptions are FREE. To continue receiving Town Taster on a regular basis, visit our website:
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A
pril? How did THAT happen?! You are probably thinking the same thing. As the weather gets warmer and spring is in full bloom – your taste buds should be as well. Over the last six months, we have enjoyed sharing the blooming of many new restaurants in our area. Along with these new culinary delights come a new season of dining needs. April brings a time of reflection. A time of renewed energy. A time of fresh new experiences. Other than the dread of Spring cleaning and losing an hour, what does this time of year mean to you? Many of us are gearing up to celebrate a couple of months full of wonderful moments with family. Whether it is Easter, Mother’s Day or a graduation – family gatherings are on all of our calendars. While you are busy soaking up the moments, wash your hands of the cooking responsibilities and let one of our many fine restaurants amaze your friends and family with fine home cooked meals. If it is a Sunday Brunch that will fit your needs, check out our guide to brunches on page 18. There is surely no shortage of choices around town! Do you have have special dietary needs? Check out the first of a four part series on Alternative Diets and Dining Out. Full of great information and suggestions, we tackle Vegetarian options in this issue. Are you on facebook? If so, don’t forget to follow us for fun updates, specials and contests! Visit us today at facebook.com/towntaster or visit our website TownTaster.com. Don’t worry if you don’t have a computer - we haven’t forgotten about you! Fill out our survey on page 8, mail us a note, or give us a call. We would love to hear from you - whatever the method. Thanks for listening to all the great things happening with TownTaster! We are happy to have you reading. Whether you are a regular subscriber or are visiting from out of town and found us... We are thrilled to be here for your reading pleasure. Now dive in...
For the
Love of Food!
2
“Love and food are the two greatest things in the world, and I’ve got a love for food.”
~ Carmen
Ask about our weekly specials Dishes are fresh & made to order Desserts straight from Italy Full Liquor Martini Bar
515 27th St E. Bradenton, FL 34208
(941) 745-1540
“Absolutely excellent!!! The food, of course, and the ambience, friendly staff. The perfect place to go. We’ll definitely be back.” ~Gloria, TownTaster reader
Live Entertainment Most Nights
Karaoke – Friday 10pm Tue - Wed: 4:00 pm - 10:00 pm Thu - Fri: 11:00 am - 10:00 pm Sat - Sun: 4:00 pm - 10:00 pm ~ Visit our new website ~
carmensitaliancafe.com Carmen & Kay Rizzo, Owners Using fresh local ingredients from O’Brien Family Farms and Dakin Dairy
Friday the 13th in the Martini Bar Featuring Crystal Head Vodka • April 13 • 9:00pm - ? Ladies Night Out • April 24 • 5:00 - 10:00 pm in the Martini Bar
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2 5 6 10 14 16
In the Mix
Welcome to TownTaster Dive into Spring
Features in this Issue
Taste-ful Events Upcoming Calendar
The Three Kitcheneers
TownTaster Review: The Grill at O'Bricks
12
TownTaster Review: Panda Buffet
Alternative Diets & Dining Out
Business Spotlight:
Riverhouse Reef & Grill pages 12-13
Series 1: Vegetarian
18 20 22 23
Feature Article Sunday Brunch
Recipe Box Banana Blueberry Smoothie
A Chocolate Lover's Delight Coupon Corner
Per u v ian Fusion Cuisine
S a r a s o t a’s N e w e s t D e s t i n a t i o n for exquisite Peruvian Delicacies
Indoor/Outdoor Settings
For Lunch, Dinner & Sunday Brunch
Live Music Fri. & Sat.
7pm - 10pm, Latin Jazz, Flamenco & more!
Happy Hour, Mon. - Fri.
4pm - 6:30pm, 2 for 1 domestic beer or glass of wine, $1 off imported beer • $5 off bottle of wine Complimentary Sunday Brunch “Mimosa”
Hours:
Mon - Thu: 11am - 9pm • Fri - Sat: 11am - 10pm Sunday: Brunch 10:30am - 3:00pm Open Menu 3:00pm - 8:00 pm
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Join us at our cozy little world of family priced exciting dishes and memorable good times!
Corporate Events Welcome • Reservations Appreciated
941-343-2280
1813 Fruitville Rd., Sarasota (corner of Osprey Ave.) CantaRanaRestaurant.com
April
15 21 21
4:30-6:30pm. $10 admission. Benefiting the Anna Maria Island Community Center. harryskitchen.com or 941.383.0777.
Men Who Cook
6:00PM - 10:30PM at the Longboat Key Club. Sarasota and Bradenton’s most prominent business and community men come together to prepare a dinner filled with their favorite recipes. www.asolorep.org/menwhocook Contact Laura Wood at 941-359-0104 x712 or laura_wood@asolo.org
Suncoast BBQ Bash - Venice
11:00AM - 7:30PM • Location: Venice Airport Festival Grounds. Free Admission & Parking. Benefiting the Suncoast Foundation for Handicapped Children. www.suncoastbbqbash.com.
Tropical Nights "In the Vineyard"
The event takes place at a beautiful private waterside home that will be transformed into a lush, rustic vineyard where guests will enjoy amazing cuisine paired with the perfect wine, a silent auction, music, dancing, cocktails www.mealsonwheelsplus.org
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Calling All Cheese Lovers Grand Cheese Tasting
The ultimate global, artisan wine and cheese tasting. yeaGWIZ will be flowing with booths from top vendors. Vendors will provide food items, wine pairings, and many gourmet artisan cheeses from all around the world. The festival will be from 11:00am-3:00pm. $15 adults, $7 child. www.gulfcoastcheesefest.org
Taste-ful Events
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Harry’s Continental Kitchen Wine Tasting
Cheesehead University
Get your big cheese diploma with four scrumptious classes to choose from. Classes in session at 10am and 2pm at GWIZ. $20 per class.
The Cheese Ball
This is the crème de la crème of the Gulf Coast Cheese Fest events. It will be held in the Fête Ballroom also known as Château de Fromage from 7-11pm. This incredible evening will boast fabulous food stations, elegant passed hors d’ oeuvres, a full bar, and lavish entertainment to twirl to. $100 per guest. www.gulfcoastcheesefest.org
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The Three Kitcheneers
Daydreaming about a big, juicy burger can be a dangerous game. One can easily slip into a burger-induced comatose state where bodily functions are reduced to drooling and stomach growling. And with good reason. Whether it’s a backyard barbecue, a quick bite with friends, watching the big game or just a great accompaniment to a cold brew, the burger is a classic dish that always hits the spot. However, we’re putting a spin on the old standby by making our burger veggielicious! You don’t need a quarter pound of cattle to make this sandwich a mouthwatering delight. This patty is chockablock with mushrooms, peppers, beans, barley and spices to ensure that every bite is a little bit of heaven. Now, if you are a die-hard carnivore, just consider this a tasty veggie sandwich as opposed to some mushroom monster trying to replace your meat. And for those of you that consider yourselves veggie burger connoisseurs, we assure you, this one aims to please. And it does not miss. This little veggie dynamo doesn’t just stop at burger. You can wrap this baby up in a pita with a ton of avocado and mayo or put it on a salad dressed with a little lemon juice and olive oil and feta cheese. Don’t forget that you can also play with burger toppings: tomatoes, herbs, onions, a fried egg. There is no wrong. So, just go on and get kitchen crazy and make up your own favorite combo. In the end, burgers always equal joy. The Three Kitcheneers always recommend using local and organic produce, if possible. Flavors just taste fresher when they come from the nearby organic farm. Plus, burgers just taste better when they don’t contain pesticides. No farm? No problem! Just look for the organic label at your grocery store.
Black Be
eet Pepper Veggie an, Mushroom & Sw
makes 4 burgers
ushrooms, 5 ounces crimini m t 2 cups rough chop, abou 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil ced 2 cloves garlic, min ced di , er pp 1 red bell pe cumin nd ou gr 3/4 teaspoon s, 2 cans black bean sed rin d an drained
Burgers
rley 1/2 cup cooked ba ur flo s on po 2 tables 1/4 cup grapeseed (or vegetable) oil wich 8 slices good sand d te as to d, brea 1 avocado, sliced n 1/4 cup sliced onio e follows) cip (re i ol Ai Chipotle
Happy Cooking!
In a dry skillet over medium heat, saute mushrooms until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside. Wipe out now empty skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and bell pepper; saute until soft, about 5 minutes. Add cumin, beans, barley and cooked mushrooms to pan; season with salt and pepper. Transfer mixture to bowl of a food processor and pulse until a coarse mixture forms. Form into 4 patties and refrigerate for 1 hour just to make them easier to handle. Dust each patty generously with flour. Heat grapeseed oil in a large nonstick skillet, fry patties until golden brown and heated through, about 2-3 minutes per side. Serve on bread smothered with aioli and topped with avocado and onion.
Chipotle Aioli
1/2 cup Vegenaise (or mayonnaise) 1 small chipotle pepper packed in adobo 1 small clove of garlic, peeled Process in a food processor until smooth.
Check out www.ThreeKitcheneers.com for recipes, articles and webisodes. All food, all the time. 6
For Italian Food Lovers !
Exquisite Original Dishes Authentic Italian Wines Family Operated Hospitality Reservations Always Appreciated
Mention this ad and get a
FREE
Fresh “Dessert of the Day!” Not valid with any other offers
15% OFF Dine-In Only
Not valid with other discounts, specials or on holidays. Present this ad or coupon by 4/30/12
Home of the
$2 Margarita!
Dinner Hours, Mon. - Sat. 5:30 PM - 10:00 PM www.bellagiosarasota.com • 941-330-1300 322 S. Washington Blvd. (U.S. 301), Sarasota, FL 33236
MEXICAN RESTAURANT
941-723-4300 EVERY DAY
Text 58275 to be a member of El Sombrero’s VP Club for discounts!
1330 U.S. Hwy 301 N. Palmetto, FL (next to NAPA in the Hall Building on 301) Open 7 Days A Week, 11am - 9pm
SPECIALS! MON: BUFFET LUNCH TUE: $1 TACO TUESDAY WED: KARAOKE 8pm START THR: BUFFET ALL DAY, ALL YOU CAN EAT $8.99 FRI - SUN : $1.5O PINTS, $2 MARGARITAS 11am - 6pm EVERY DAY SPECIALS: KIDS UNDER 6 EAT FREE, MON-THR TILL 6pm
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For the Love of Food
Enter to Win!
Tell us what you think! And you could be a winner…
We are glad to hear you like us... Now tell us a little about you! We want to know about your favorites and what you want to read more about. Tell us about it and have a chance to win a prize pack to Food & Wine on Pine on May 5th. What determines where you chose to eat?
Send in your survey today to be entered into a drawing to receive $25 worth of food tickets, 2 buffet plates
How often do you dine out per week?
and 2 wine glass set ups at “Food & Wine on Pine” on May 5th. Value $30.00
What is your favorite restaurant for… Seafood
w w w.foodandwineonpine.com
Sports Bar & Grill Do you have any “special diet” dining that you would like to see featured?
Restaurant 941-779-1930 • 103 Gulf Dr. N. Bradenton Beach, FL
Located 150 feet from the Gulf of Mexico, this Caribbean-style restautrant is an oasis of island delights...
Featuring their award winning mango infused crab cake and gator swamp chili and islander favorite... Macadamia Nut Encrusted Grouper! Make sure to ask for their original Cabanatini and Sangria... It’s sure to leave a smile on your face!
*Name: Music Nightly Reservations Accepted Chris, Sheryl & PJ Smargisso, the new owners of the Banana Cabana, extend an invitation to you and your family to come visit with us and enjoy our great food and free sunsets. $5 appetizers 4-6 and $2.50 domestic beers all day til 6. Best Grouper Taco on Anna Maria Island!
Lunch 11:30 - 3:30, Dinner 4:00 - 10:00, All Day Happy Hour til 6PM • Drink & Food Specials
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Address: *Phone: Email: ___ Yes, please add me to your mailing list and send each issue right to my home! Enter by mail: Send this completed form to PO Box 161, Ellenton, FL 34222 Or go to TownTaster.com to complete this survey. Only one submission per household please. *Required fields.
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Expert “Town Tasters” Nikki Nadwodny & (son) Austin Nadwodny 426 12th Street W. Bradenton, FL 34205 941.896.8860 For a complete menu, visit www.obricks.com
e Martini
O’Bricks Chocolat
Appetizer: Stuffed hot Banana PePPerS - Fresh banana peppers stuffed with Italian cheeses, fresh herbs and spices, then baked and served over garlic bread. Entreés: ShrimP eldorado PaSta - Blackened shrimp sautéed with fresh garlic, a splash of chardonnay, parmesan, baby spinach, roasted red peppers and a touch of cream tossed with linguine. Seafood ChimiChanga - Gulf shrimp, chopped onions, peppers, jalapeños and velouté rolled in a flour tortilla with shredded jack and cheddar cheeses. Crowned with guacamole, sour cream and fresh pico de gallo. Served with tortilla chips for scoopin’ the extras. Dessert: Peanut Butter Pie Drinks: ChoColate martini & PePSi
Stuffed Hot Banana Peppers
Kid Friendly: Yes ~ Easy to Find: Yes ~ Reservations: no ~ Would you Recommend? YeS!! YeS!! YeS!!
The Stuffed Banana Peppers appetizer was very surprising! We weren’t sure what to expect but we were left wanting more. Hats off to the Chef for thinking outside the box.
Favorite Menu Item
Difficult to choose only one item but for me, the Chocolate Martini was simply divine & for Austin, the Seafood Chimichanga was simply mouth-watering!
Nikki & Austin (son) Nadwodny About our TownTasters:
Age: 43 & 13 • Hometown: Sarasota Hobbies: Running & Spending time with family Favorite Food: Italian/Mexican/Thai/Peruvian ? 10
wnTaster” l To
for giving their stamp of approval to The Grill at O’Bricks!
n
een visited by a sb n“ a th
cia f fi O
A special thanks to this issue's TownTasters
“The atmosphere was lively yet sophisticated. Easy to start off with a drink in the pub/bar & move to the dining area or outside for your meal. The decor was a beautiful brick building with warm, rich wood accents and features along Bradenton’s historic Old Main Street. Sadly, our meal ended too soon. We could have stayed longer. We would definitely recommend The Grill at O’Bricks Irish Pub & Martini Bar to anyone who enjoys an upscale yet relaxed dining experience. You won’t be disappointed!”
tau ra
Interesting Menu Items
Comments:
This re s
Favorite Part of Experience
Our server, Shane, was friendly & we enjoyed his conversation & top notch service.
w APPROVED ww .To m wnTaster.co
SAIGON HIBACHI Vietnamese Cuisine & Japanese Grill Come Experience the Far East Sarasota’s Finest Japanese & Vietnamese Cusine with Exciting Dishes & Unique Ambience
941-487-8711 Open Mon., Wed.-Sat. 11am - 9pm Sun. 1pm - 9pm - Closed Tue.
Happy Hour 3pm - 5pm
M e nti o n this a d o r p re s e nt co u p o n f o r
50% OFF
935 N. Beneva, Sarasota
Second entreé of equal or lesser value
(Sarasota Commons Shopping Center)
Not valid with any other offer or coupon. Exp 4/30/12
www.SaigonHibachi.com
Naturally Nutritious! Fresh Made Pitas Overstuffed Wraps Salads
Any 2 Pitas w/ Lg Hummus, and 2 Toasted Pitas $12.99 (Except Mega Pitas) Not Valid With Any Other Offer
Pita's 1/4
Fish Pitas Much More...
FREE
Combo Meal w/ Purchase Of Any Pita or Wrap Not Valid With Any Other Offer
$1 Off
All Fruit Smoothies Not Valid With Any Other Offer
www.pitas-republic.com 8215 Tourist Center Dr. • Sarasota, FL 34201
941-359-1234 11
Business Spotlight: Great
food with a fantastic view! Located at Regatta Pointe Marina on the beautiful Manatee River, Riverhouse Reef & Grill offers a casual yet elegant dining experience. Their menu is overflowing with dishes that will appeal to every palate. From the freshest seafood to Certified Angus steaks and burgers - bring your appetite! Whether it is a special occasion or an afternoon lunch break, they have something for everyone. Their amazing waterfront banquet facility is a perfect place to host your wedding or other event. If it is something more casual you are looking for, a table is awaiting for you to enjoy a leisurely lunch with a friend or co-worker! You may choose to sit dockside to enjoy the peaceful view of the river while watching the dolphins play and the elegant yachts float by or find a seat inside in our waterfront dining room that brings the skyline view right up to your table. A bountiful brunch is on every Sunday from 11:30-3pm. Perfect for that lazy Sunday afternoon with the family. Happy Hour is everyday from 3-6pm with $5 appetizers, $2 drafts, $4 house wines & more! So what are you waiting for? Make your plans now to go over and visit. You won’t be disappointed!
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995 Riverside Drive, Palmetto, FL 34221 941.729.0616 www.riverhousereef.com
TownTaster Favorites: Green Goddess Shrimp Island Time Salad
Lobster Pot Pie
Crispy Calamari Lobster Pot Pie
Crispy Calamari
Chocolate Cake 13
3901 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton, FL 34205 941.746.9880
Expert “Town Tasters” Rennie & Bob Finck
Visit: Sat. March 3 ~ 7:30pm
All - You - CAn - EAt - BuffEt Favorite Part of Experience
Food selection ranged from traditional Chinese to pot roast to frog legs and on and on...
Atmosphere of Restaurant
Traditional ornamental with good aisle width so that it did not make you feel crowded even with almost every table full. Huge buffet area spread out so that you did not feel rushed or crowded.
Kid Friendly: Yes ~ Easy to Find: Yes ~ Reservations: No ~ Would you Recommend? Yes
Interesting Buffet Items
Sushi, Frog Legs, Very Good Roast Duck, Huge Dessert Bar - 8 Varieties Of Scoop Yourself Ice Cream.
Would you recommend?
Rennie & Bob Finck
for giving their stamp of approval to Panda Buffet!
About our TownTasters:
Age: 41 • Hometown: Parrish Hobbies: Fishing, Boating, Sports, Hiking, Eating Favorite Food: Rennie - Steak & Stone Crab • Bob - Seafood ? 14
n
n visited by bee an s a h “ t
wnTaster” l To
A special thanks to this issue's TownTasters
“If you are interested in good buffet food or have people with varying food likes, this is the place to go! The young man taking care of our area, David, was very attentive. The employees were working very hard to maintain cleanliness with an amazing amount of customer turnover.”
cia f fi O
Yes - the food and selection was excellent. The clients ranged from families to senior citizens to teenage groups. If you want selection and very nice employees with a buffet style, I would highly recommend.
Comments:
tau ra
Steak Pie, General Tso Chicken, Bacon Shrimp, Crab Rangoon
This re s
Favorite Buffet Item
w APPROVED ww .To m wnTaster.co
Small & Large Parties Welcome! All-You-Can-Eat Buffet
9 41-74 6 - 9 8 8 0
20% off
ticket for your party of 6 or more adults Dinner Only 4pm-9:30pm (Snow Crab Legs $3.99 Extra)
DINE IN ONLY With this coupon. Not valid with other offers or promtions. Offer Expires 4/30/12
10 off %
15 off
OVER
150
ITEMS
%
Lunch or Dinner
Adults Only Lunch 11am - 3:30pm Snow Crab Legs $3.99 Extra (Served with dinner only) DINE IN ONLY With this coupon. Not valid with other offers or promtions. Offer Expires 4/30/12
ticket for your party of 4 or more adults Dinner Only 4pm - 9:30pm Snow Crab Legs $3.99 Extra (Served with dinner only) DINE IN ONLY With this coupon. Not valid with other offers or promtions. Offer Expires 4/30/12
Children Under 3 Eat Free!
Join Our Loyal Customer Club! See cashier for details
Including: • Appetizers • Soup • Beef
• Crab Legs • Seafood • Sushi
• Chicken • Pork • Ice Cream
• Vegetables • Desserts • Fresh Fruit • Salad Bar • And Much More!
PANDA BUFFET • West Gate Shopping Center • 3901 Manatee Ave. West, Bradenton
new year new you Tapas Bar & Restaurant new us
Low-Calorie Dieter’s Items
happy hour drink prices all day every day
$4 Wine, Sangria & Beer | Half Off Select Cocktails Tapas Bar & Restaurant
SARASOTA
Tapas Bar & Restaurant
1216 1st Street | 941.952.1036 www.ceviche.com For a limited time only.
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Alternative Diets and Dining Out S e r i e s 1: V e g e t a r i a n
Whether you are new to being a vegetarian or have been at it for years, there are many tips and tricks to choosing meatless meal options when dining out. Many restaurants have altered their menus to accommodate the rising popularity of vegetarian diets. On some of these menus you will find specially noted vegetarian dishes. Selections of meatless dishes, veggie burgers and exciting new varieties of salad make eating out a breeze at many restaurants. However, what happens when you find yourself out with friends or family at an establishment that doesn’t highlight these options? Don’t panic, take a look at menu options containing meat and ask if they can easily be prepared without the meat portion. For example, a delicious chicken and pasta alfredo dish that leaves your mouth watering can easily be altered to fit your request. And if nothing pops out at you, feel free to ask your server if the chef can recommend something. Most chefs are more than happy to display their culinary expertise in an exciting new way.
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If you are going to an event where a set menu has been organized, with a little bit of notice, the chef can whip up something different for you without making much of a fuss. And chances are you aren’t the only one in the room that has asked. Being prepared in this type of situation can help you avoid a situation where your dish goes untouched and you remain hungry. Best part about a “special request” for a vegetarian dish - many times these dished come with a hearty portion that will outshine the set menu items! You may be following a vegetarian diet due to cultural or religious reasons or simply to stay healthy
and prevent health problems. No matter the reason, be assured you are not alone and try to think “outside the box” when it comes to ordering food at your next outing. Never hesitate to ask what ingredients are used in a dish or how your needs can be accommodated. Do you have a special dietary need that you would like to hear more about? Fill out our survey on page 8 and let us know!
K n ow the Li n go:
Vegetarian: a diet that excludes meat, poultry, game, fish, shellfish or crustacea, or slaughter by-products (gelatine or rennet) Lacto-Vegetarian: a vegetarian diet that consumes dairy, but not eggs Ovo-Vegetarian: a vegetarian diet that consumes eggs, but not dairy Su Vegetarian: a common Buddhist vegetarian diet that also doesn’t consume fetid vegetables (onion, garlic, scallions, leeks or shallots) Semi-Vegetarian or Flexitarian: a diet that may exclude certain types of meat (such as red meat), but includes others Pescatarian: a mainly vegetarian diet that consumes seafood Vegan: a vegetarian diet that also excludes all other animal by-products (eggs, dairy products, honey, leather, fur, silk, wool, cosmetics, etc.) Raw Vegan: a vegan diet consisting of all uncooked (or not cooked over 115°F | 46°C) fruits, vegetables, nuts and seeds Definitions compliments of www.freshlyvegetarian.com 17
C’est La Vie
1553 Main Street, Sarasota, FL 34236 941-906-9575 www.cestlaviesarasota.com
Island Creperie
127 Bridge Street, Bradenton Beach, FL 34217 941-778-1011 www.bistrotfl.com
Peach’s
4832 South Tamiami Trail, Sarasota 941-923-8202 6386 N. Lockwood Ridge Rd., Sarasota 941-359-2153 4292 Bee Ridge Rd., Sarasota 941-378-4458 1230 Jacaranda Blvd., Venice 941-493-7711 3201 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton 941-747-2894 5702 Cortez Rd. W., Bradenton 941-794-5140 6057 26th St. W., Bradenton 941-727-0443 7315 52nd Pl. E., Bradenton 941-752-3366 5240 SR. 64 East, Bradenton 941-747-6200 2207 60th Ave. E., Ellenton 941-721-7838 3240 East Bay Dr., Holmes Beach 941-779-0738
Peridia Golf & Country Club
4950 Peridia Blvd., Bradenton, FL 34203 941-758-2582 www.peridiagcc.net
Station 400
400 North Lemon Ave., Sarasota, FL 34236 941-906-1400 www.station400.com
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One of the best things about Sunday is gathering with family to enjoy a meal and squeeze in some relaxing before another hectic week begins. Don’t you agree? What better place to indulge in the detectible delights of a mid-morning brunch than warm, sunny Florida. On every corner you can find cafés, diners, bakeries and bistros where the owners are up early preparing and arranging beautiful displays of food. Why not go visit one and see what you have been missing? If you don’t know where to start, we have come up with a few suggestions to get you started on a springtime marathon of brunches around town. D owntown S arasota If you are craving a scrumptious pastry or a perfectly buttery Croissant, take a step into France and visit C’est La Vie. Located in the heart of Main Street in Sarasota, their menu of sweet treats & pastries can be paired with a delicious breakfast or lunch of your choice! Station 400 in downtown Sarasota will not disappoint with their fabulous line up of breakfast & lunch specials. A wide menu ranges from Eggs Benedict, pancakes, waffles and omelettes for breakfast to amazing soups, sandwiches and salads for lunch. B radenton / E llenton Peridia Golf Club offers a traditional Sunday brunch that is open to the public. Their full buffet line up includes made to order eggs & omelets, Danishes, blintzes, waffles, fruit & more. With 11 locations from Ellenton to Venice, Peaches is a classic breakfast go-to for locals and tourists alike. There is no denying their menu is packed full of delicious breakfast & lunch items made with the freshest ingredients. A personal favorite, which I highly recommend for a satisfying light breakfast – the Peach’s Breakfast Sundae! O n the I sland If you have a sweet tooth like me, Island Creperie is a stop not to be missed on your Sunday brunch rounds! Savory crepes of all kinds, crepe rolls and French toast will leave your mouth watering for more. So, what are you waiting for? Make your plans today and let us know how your brunch was! We love hearing from you - send us an email (info@towntaster.com) or fill out the survey on page 8. Happy Brunching!
R
enaissance 9
ON
TH
A Premiere Lunch, Meeting, Banquet & Catering Services Facility
• Join us for lunch Monday-Friday at the 9th Street Bistro • Reserve your small or large corporate meeting rooms • Host your wedding or special event in the beautiful Turner Ballroom • Call us for professional catering services, and we will come to you
Schedule a free consultation with our event coordinator: 941-749-0100 1816 9th St West, Bradenton, FL 34205. www.renaissanceon9th.org
Mention this ad when you join us for lunch and get a FREE gourmet cookie!
Savor an evening “In the Vineyard” to benefit Meals on Wheels PLUS and enjoy the culinary delights of Renaissance on 9th Executive Chef David Meador. Visit mealsonwheelsplus.org for menu and details.
April 21, 2012, 6 pm
Town Taster Ad April 2012 4.75 x 7.25, half-page $350 Meals on Wheels Plus Contact: Laura Coyle, 941-749-0100
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Bountiful Blueberries By Shelby King, King Family Farm
Blueberries are at the top of the super food list. The health and anti-aging benefits seem to be endless. The blueberry’s nick-name is “brain-berry” because of it’s reputation for increasing memory and brain function. Here are few reasons why blueberries are so good for us. • Boost the immune system because of their high levels of vitamin c, manganese, vitamin A, b-complex, copper, selenium, zinc and iron • Help to reduce the risk for age related diseases such as cataracts, dementia, glaucoma and Alzheimer’s disease. • Can help reduce the risk for cancer because one of the anti-oxidants named Anthocyanin helps to reduce free radicals that are know to contribute to cancer. • Proven to reduce the risk of heart disease and belly fat by helping to lower triglycerides and cholesterol levels. • Have been shown to help slow the deterioration of vision. Experts suggest that we consume at least a cup of blueberries everyday.
Banana Blueberry Smoothie
Ingre die nts • 1 ripe banana • 1 cup frozen blueberries • 1 cup nonfat plain yogurt
We grow our fruit and vegetables here on our farm using sustainable farming methods.
D ire c tions 1. In a blender, combine banana, blueberries, and yogurt. 2. Blend on high speed until smooth. Pour into two glasses; serve immediately.
Our produce is sun ripened and picked daily at its peak for taste, and nutritional goodness then sold directly from our market to you.
Recipe Box
That’s not all...
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• • • • • • •
Dakin Dairy Fresh Breads Plants Beef Chicken Eggs Local Honey
Come see how we grow and taste the locally grown difference. ~ Ben & Shelby King 4630 60th Street East, Bradenton, FL 34203 • 941.773.1624 Hours: Tues.-Sat. 9am-6pm, closed Sun. & Mon.
Formerly “Cinco De Mayo”
New Name ~ Same Chef/Owner Traditional Mexican Cuisine at Affordable Prices and Served with a Smile!
10% OFF or FREE Appetizer Mention this Ad or present coupon
Feel at home the moment you are greeted by Mariela and be delighted by Chef Juan Pineda’s original creations!
Daily Lunch Specials Vegetarian & Kid-Friendly Meals
Open Daily Sunday - Thursday: 11am-9pm Friday & Saturday: 11am-10pm 1551 Main Street, Sarasota
941-917-0043
www.aztecasarasota.com
(941)
10%
off
Dine-In Only
Not valid with any other offers. Must present coupon or mention this ad by 4/30/12.
706-3848 • (941) 365-7799
Dine In, Take-Out Catering • fax: (941) 706-4966 935 N. Beneva, Rd. #401, Sarasota • www.thestarthaiandsushi.comOnly, 4:30pm - 9:30pm Dinner Sunday • 9:30pm Mon. - Sat. Lunch 11am - 3pm, Dinner 4:30pm (941) 761-9100 Visit us in Bradenton: “Thai Palace Restaurant”, 4756 Cortez Rd. W.
21
at
If you missed this year’s Chocolate Sundae event at Michael's on East on March 4th, you better have a good excuse! With chocolate flowing from every corner, supporters lined up around the room for a chance to taste the areas finest chocolate. This year’s turnout was an incredible one. Where to start… Sarasota Seafoam from Sirard’s , Peanut Butter Cups on a stick from Pastries by Design, Chocolate Ricotta Cake from Cosimo’s, and a chocolate fountain from Healthy Chocolate. Whew – those were just a FEW of our favorites. Presenting sponsor Publix Super Market Charities was also on hand to fill our plates with every kind of chocolate cake available – now THAT was a great corner to get stuck in! Thank you to all who came out and supported the UCP (United Cerebral Palsy) of Sarasota-Manatee! It sure is clear that our community knows how to support a worthy cause – and eat some amazing chocolate creations!
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Coupon o r n e r
Peruvian Fusion Cuisine
1551 Main Street, Sarasota (941) 917-0043
322 S. Washington Blvd., Sarasota (941) 330.1300
10% OFF - OR FREE Appetizer
FREE Dessert
With this coupon. Offer valid through 4/30/12
Limit one coupon per person per visit. TownTaster Magazine. Not to be combined with any other offer or coupon.
6621 Midnight Pass Rd., Sarasota (941) 349-1792
15% OFF Dine-In Only
With this coupon. Offer valid through 4/30/12
Limit one coupon per person per visit. TownTaster Magazine. Not to be combined with any other offer or coupon.
“Fresh Dessert of the Day”
With this coupon. Offer valid through 4/30/12
Limit one coupon per person per visit. TownTaster Magazine. Not to be combined with any other offer or coupon.
16505 SR 64 E., Bradenton (941) 896-4811
1813 Fruitville Rd., Sarasota (941) 343-2280
1 OFF imported beer $ 5 OFF bottle of wine
$
-OR -
With this coupon. Offer valid through 4/30/12
Limit one coupon per person per visit. TownTaster Magazine. Not to be combined with any other offer or coupon.
Buy $15 & receive a
FREE
ice cream cone!
Valid only with this coupon. One per party, per visit.
With this coupon. Offer valid through 4/30/12
Limit one coupon per person per visit. TownTaster Magazine. Not to be combined with any other offer or coupon.
1816 9th Street West, Bradenton (941) 749-0100
FREE
Gourmet Cookie With Purchase
With this coupon. Offer valid through 4/30/12
Limit one coupon per person per visit. TownTaster Magazine. Not to be combined with any other offer or coupon.
20% off
All-You-Can-Eat Buffet
3901 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton (941) 746-9880
% 10 off Lunch or Dinner -
ticket for your party of 6 or more adults Dinner Only 4pm-9:30pm (Snow Crab Legs $3.99 Extra) DINE IN ONLY
With this coupon. Not valid with other offers or promtions. Offer Expires 4/30/12. TownTaster Magazine.
15% off
DINE IN ONLY Adults Only - Lunch 11am - 3:30pm Snow Crab Legs $3.99 Extra (Served with dinner only)
ticket for your party of 4 or more adults Dinner Only 4pm - 9:30pm - DINE IN ONLY Snow Crab Legs $3.99 Extra (Served with dinner only)
With this coupon. Not valid with other offers or promtions. Offer Expires 4/30/12. TownTaster Magazine.
With this coupon. Not valid with other offers or promtions. Offer Expires 4/30/12. TownTaster Magazine.
FREE
Combo Meal w/Purchase of any Pita or Wrap 8215 Tourist Center Dr., Sarasota (941) 359-1234
Any 2 Pitas
w/Lg Hummus and 2 Toasted Pitas $12.99 (Except Mega Pitas) With this coupon. Not valid with other offers or promtions. Offer Expires 4/30/12. TownTaster Magazine.
With this coupon. Not valid with other offers or promtions. Offer Expires 4/30/12. TownTaster Magazine.
$1 OFF
All Fruit Smoothies
With this coupon. Not valid with other offers or promtions. Offer Expires 4/30/12. TownTaster Magazine.
935 N. Beneva Rd., #401, Sarasota 941-706-3848 • 941-365-7799
10% OFF Dine In Only
With this coupon. Offer valid through 4/30/12
Limit one coupon per person per visit. TownTaster Magazine. Not to be combined with any other offer or coupon.
SAIGON HIBACHI
Vietnamese Cuisine & Japanese Grill
935 N. Beneva Rd., Sarasota, FL (941) 487-8711
50% OFF Second entreé of
equal or lesser value With this coupon. Offer valid through 4/30/12
Limit one coupon per person per visit. TownTaster Magazine. Not to be combined with any other offer or coupon.
You asked for coupons? You got it! Try something new today
23
Post Office Box 161 Ellenton, Florida 34222
Have a Delicious...
Easter!
Everyone loves the signature sweet, crunchy glaze of our HoneyBaked® Ham and tender Turkey, but don’t forget to try our delicious sides like Sweet Potato Soufflé, Green Bean Casserole, Cinnamon Apples and more today!
5OFF
SKU 709400
$
Any size Bone-in Half Ham
Offer Expires 5/12/2012. Must present coupon at time of purchase to receive offer. May not be combined with any other offer. Only one coupon per person per visit. Valid only at participating retail locations. Offer not valid on catalog or online purchases. While supplies last..
3OFF
SKU 709413
$
2199
SKU 709427
Mini Ham or Boneless Ham
Offer Expires 5/12/2012. Must present coupon at time of purchase to receive offer. May not be combined with any other offer. Only one coupon per person per visit. Valid only at participating retail locations. Offer not valid on catalog or online purchases. While supplies last.
0
1499
$
$ 4 0 0 0 0 7 0 9 4 1 3
SKU 711906
4 0 0 0 0 7 0 9 4 2 7
Turkey Breast with Ham Purchase
Offer Expires 5/12/2012. Must present coupon at time of purchase to receive offer. May not be combined with any other offer. Only one coupon per person per visit. Valid only at participating retail locations. Offer not valid on catalog or online purchases. While supplies last.
7
Choose any 2 heat-and-serve Sides
Offer Expires 5/12/2012. Must present coupon at time of purchase to receive offer. May not be combined with any other offer. Only one coupon per person per visit. Valid only at participating retail locations. Offer not valid on catalog or online purchases. While supplies last.
• 5771 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton, FL 34209 • (941) 761-3766 fax (941) 761-1686 • 2605 Tamiami Trail, Port Charlotte, FL 33952 • (941) 625-3626 fax (941) 625-3629 • 4638 Commercial Way, Spring Hill, FL 34606 • (352) 592-2994 fax (352) 592-2997