August 2012 by Town Taster

TownTaster M

Boat Friendly Dining

August 2012

E FRE E

Volume 1 â&#x20AC;˘ Issue 7

Sail into these docks and bring your appetite

Our first winner is revealed

Town Tasters

Back to School Lunches Tips & tricks for planning school lunches

The Green Winer

How the World's Best Wines are Made

Our readers visit Ocean Star Sushi & San Remo Pizza this month

For the Love of Food... w w w.To w nTa s t e r. c o m

SUBSCRIBE TODAY - FREE!

Cook up some back to school treats

Cruising for From the Editor August 2012 Volume 1, Issue 7 Publisher

PCI Publishing, LLC

Editor

Valerie Longo 941-932-8884

Sales Manager Wendy Hamilton

Web Design

Syd Krawczyk Concept Digital Media

Social Media Lenny Longo

Graphic Design Glenn Huston

Contributing Authors

Chef Richard Chaney Stacie Cunningham, Heather Hurley The Three Kitcheneers Beverly Scott, Larry Woodham 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:

TownTaster.com facebook.com/TownTaster

Food

Well, here we are – August is upon us. Where has the time gone? Summer has been filled up with plenty of good friends, fun and FOOD! Don’t fret; we still have many sun filled days left to feel the warmth of the sun on our skin and the sand in our toes. With that being said – how about the splash of water on our face and the smell of delightful food on the docks? This issue, we pay tribute to the many boat friendly restaurants that grace our waterways and tickle our taste buds! Our Docks & Dinner* feature article will take you on a cruise to sample the excellent choices all you boat lovers have available. We are thrilled to announce our first ever Gecko’s HomeTown Hero. Our community is filled with many "heroes" and we are proud to honor one of them this month. If you know someone who deserves to be recognized for his or her superior service to the community or being a great role model, we want to hear about it! You can find nomination forms on our website at www.TownTaster.com, at any of the five Gecko’s locations or at www.GeckosGrill.com. As you browse through this issue, be on the look out for great articles on subjects that our readers have expressed their interest. We hear from Gluten Free by Beverly again about a subject that has become quite popular lately. Larry the “Green Winer” from Bunker Hill Winery also has a good read about how the finest wines are made. Read on, we know you will like it! Last but not least, if you have kids, you are doing the back to school shuffle right about now. Let us help you take some stress off the lunchbox planning part as we explore time saving tips to help you when packing school (or work) lunches. Our Mom’s Minute focus will help you put those worries aside. We welcome some fabulous tips from Chef Richard Chaney as well. And don’t miss The Three Kitcheneers AMAZING (and we mean it is awesome!) recipe for “Butter Nut Bars”. Feel great about packing the lunchbox and what is going inside! We hope you continue to enjoy our monthly issues of TownTaster. Bringing a tasty spin to a food magazine that will leave you hungry (and even a little smarter). If you have something you would like to see featured, give us a call or drop us an email. This magazine is all about YOU!

Valerie 2

* Cover Photo Courtesy of Riverhouse Reef & Grill

“Love and food are the two greatest things in the world, and I’ve got a love for food.”

~ Carmen

Carmen & Kay Rizzo, Owners

Ask about our weekly specials Dishes are fresh & made to order Desserts straight from Italy Full Liquor Martini Bar

Live Entertainment Most Nights

“Absolutely excellent!!! The food, of course, and the ambience, friendly staff. The perfect place to go. We’ll definitely be back.” ~Gloria, TownTaster reader

Karaoke – Friday 10pm Wed: 4:00 pm - 10:00 pm Thu - Fri: 11:00 am - 10:00 pm Sat - Sun: 4:00 pm - 10:00 pm Bring in this ad for a

FREE Fresh Tomato & Basil Bruschetta Appetizer With purchase of menu item. TownTaster Magazine. Expires 8/31/12 Limit one per table. Not to be combined with any other offer.

515 27th St E. Bradenton, FL 34208  (941) 745-1540  carmensitaliancafe.com

2 5 7 8 15 18

In the Mix

Cruising for Food From the Editor

HomeTown Hero First Winner: Kim Hunsader

Features in this Issue

Town Taster Review: Ocean Star Sushi

The Green Winer

TownTaster Review: San Remo Pizza & Pasta

Mom's Minute School Lunches Made Easy

Feature Article:

Docks & Dinner pages 12-13

20 21

Tips from Chef Richard The Three Kitcheneers Be Gluten Free

SAIGON HIBACHI Vietnamese Cuisine & Japanese Grill Tapas Fresh Seafood Peruvian Specialties American Favorites Select Wine & Beer Sunset Specials Seasonal Specials Takeout and Catering

Come Experience the Far East Sarasota’s Finest Japanese & Vietnamese Cusine with Exciting Dishes & Unique Ambience

Tuesday-Saturday 5-9pm

Local, Organic and Sustainable

941-487-8711

Peruvian American Cuisine and South American Tapas 6621 Midnight Pass Rd. in Crescent Plaza Just over the south bridge on Siesta Key

941.349.1792

www.javiersrestaurant.com

Happy Hour 3pm - 5pm 935 N. Beneva, Sarasota

(Sarasota Commons Shopping Center)

www.SaigonHibachi.com

Mon & Wed - Sat 11am - 9pm Sun 1pm - 9pm - Closed Tue M e nti o n th is a d o r p re s e nt co u p o n f o r

50% OFF

Second entreé of equal or lesser value Not valid with any other offer or coupon. Exp 8/31/12

Gecko’s Grill & Pub Gecko’s Grill & Pub and TownTaster Magazine would like to congratulate our

WINNER Kim Hunsader

Hometown: Bradenton Favorite Gecko’s Dish: Salmon Salad Organizations Served: Manasota Buds, Salvation Army, The Special Needs Prom at Woodland Baptist

“Kim volunteers her time and talent in assisting many local organizations. She helps educate our local elementary students through programs and field trips about farming through her family’s business Hunsader Farms. Kim instills the importance of volunteering in her children, nieces, nephews and even other teens in our community. Kim is a positive role model to kids and teens in our community.” Nominated by: Kelli Gambardella, Bradenton

August 614

It’s All About Voting, Freedom and FREE Ice Cream at Mixons

Pier 22 Summer Luau and Pig Roast

Spanish Inquisition Themed August Wine Dinner

Five-course wine-pairing dinners at Mattison’s Forty-One

FREE ice cream cone to any child, twelve and under that come into the store and recite the “Pledge of Allegiance”. Mixons will also give a FREE ice cream cone to any veteran or active military with ID. 2525 27th Street East Bradenton, FL 34208, 941.748.5829, mixon.com

The Summer Luau features live tropical music, a limbo contest, fire dancers and a Pig Roast. 7-11pm. $24.95 per person (plus tax, gratuity & beverages). Reservations required. 1200 1st Avenue West, Bradenton, FL 34205, 941.748.8087, pier22dining.com

Carmel Café & Wine Bar’s August wine dinners will celebrate the food and wine of Spain’s Iberian Peninsula. 6:30pm. $59.95 per person. Reservations required. 8433 Cooper Crek Blvd., University Park, FL 34201, 941-893-5955, carmelcafe.com

Featuring Frog’s Leap Vineyard from Napa Valley. Cost: $75 per person (plus tax and gratuity). Reservations required. 7275 S. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, 941-921-3400, mattisons.com.

Prima Donna Ristorante Italiano

Catering is available for weddings, parties & meetings.

5718 Cortez Road West Bradenton, Fl 34210

www.PrimaDonnaRestaurant.com

941-896-9744

Chef Carino and Chef Hamid invite you to dine with them at their new Bradenton restaurant. You will not be disappointed. If you have dined at Carino’s on St. Pete Beach, you know what a great dining experience it is.

5 off

Of $25 or more.

Dine-in only, limit 1 certificate per table. With this coupon only • Not valid with any other offers Offer expires 8/31/12

BUY 1 LUNCH, GET 1 LUNCH

Open 7 days a week 11:30am-10:30pm

1/2 OFF

Dine-in only, limit 1 certificate per table. With this coupon only • Not valid with any other offers Offer expires 8/31/12

BUY 1 DINNER, GET 1 DINNER

1/2 OFF

Dine-in only, limit 1 certificate per table. With this coupon only • Not valid with any other offers Offer expires 8/31/12

For Italian Food Lovers !

Come in and enjoy our food and culture. We have cold sake, Japanese wines, beer and daily sushi specials. We pride ourselves on quality Japanese specialty food and the freshest sushi.

Exquisite Original Dishes Authentic Italian Wines Family Operated Hospitality Reservations Always Appreciated

Ocean Star is the perfect setting after a day at the beach, a long day at work or just a place to unwind and relax. Make Ocean Star your new favortite place to enjoy a night out.

Locations 3608 East Bay Drive Holmes Beach, FL 34217 Phone 941-778-1236 / Fax 941-778-1294 Hours Mon - Thur : 5:00 - 10:00 Fri & Sat: 5:00 - 11:00 Sun: 5:00 - 9:30 4444 Cortez Road West Bradenton, FL 34210 Phone 941-798-9999 / Fax 941-761-4444 Lunch Hours Mon - Fri: 11:30 - 2:00 Dinner Hours Mon - Thur: 4:00 - 10:00 Fri, Sat: 5:00 - 11:00 Sun: 5:00 - 9:30

Mention this ad and get

10% OFF

Not valid with any other offers

Dinner Hours, Tue. - Sat. 5:30 PM - 10:00 PM www.bellagiosarasota.com â&#x20AC;˘ 941-330-1300 322 S. Washington Blvd. (U.S. 301), Sarasota, FL 33236

www.oceanstarsushi.com Please Call For Take Out Orders!

Live Music | Open Late | Rooftop Patio | Flamenco Lounge

~ ~ ~

Up to 50% off on featured tapas and cocktails New Sizzling Summer Menu every three weeks Now through September 30th SARASOTA

1216 1st Street | (941) 952-1036 | www.ceviche.com

aster” wnT To

This restaura nt

isited by an “ Of fi

v en be

3608 East Bay Drive, Holmes Beach 34217 • 941.778.1236 4444 Cortez Road West, Bradenton 34210 • 941.798.9999

D APPROVE om

.c w.TownTaster

www.oceanstarsushi.com Appetizer: SUSHI: Melody Roll - lobster, avocado, crab & mayo. CAlIFoRNIA Roll - Crab, avocado, cucumber (added carrot at my request) Entrées: SHRIMp & CHICkeN teMpURA - Fresh shrimp & white meat chicken, fresh green beans, potatoes, eggplant and squashes. HIBACHI SCAllopS - Teppan Yaki grilled scallops and marinated in garlic soy sauce, salad & fried rice.

Kid Friendly: yeS ~ Easy to Find: yeS ~ Reservations: No ~ Would you Recommend? yeS

Atmosphere/ Ambiance

Come in and enjoy our food and culture. We have cold sake, Japanese wines, beer and daily sushi specials. We pride ourselves on quality Japanese specialty food and the freshest sushi. Ocean Star is the perfect setting after a day at the beach, a long day at work or just a place to unwind and relax. Make Ocean Star your new favorite place to enjoy a night out.

The ambiance was comfortable. Nice & ideal for a sushi/ Japanese restaurant.

Interesting Menu Items

LOVEBOAT - An array of sushi - sashimi, nigiri, makinmono. A dinner for two.

Favorite Menu Item

HiBAcHi ScALLOpS - perfectly marinated in a delicious ginger teriaki sauce - grilled.

For a complete menu, visit www.oceanstarsushi.com

A special thanks to this issue's TownTasters

Stacie & Tim Cunningham

for giving their stamp of approval to OCEAN STAR!

About our TownTasters:

Age: 35-44 • Hometown: pittsburgh Current City: Lakewood Ranch Favorite Food: Mexican

Comments

“We loved the proximity to the beach. We will definitely go back!”

Each month, our TownTaster reviews are completed by loyal readers who want a chance to share their dining experiences. If you would like a chance to be chosen as a TownTaster and enjoy a dinner for two register on our website TownTaster.com

7 7

The Green Winer

A Wine Blog by…

How the World’s Best Wines are Made and…Fallen Trees are Memorialized! After a recent afternoon thunderstorm, I discovered a large tree had fallen behind our house. It had, obviously, been dead for a very long time, as it was mostly lacking any bark and most of the limbs had rotted away. However, it was still massive. It had to have weighed several tons. My first thought was about the huge task that lay before me. It was going to take several hours with a chainsaw to clean this mess up. Then, as a bolt of lightning from heaven... it came to me!

The same hidden force that caused this beast of a tree to fall to the ground was the same force that has clarified our wines for hundreds of years! Slowly, relentlessly, 24 hours a day, the “Force of Gravity” worked its magic. Gravity never stopped pulling the tiniest particle of the grape or fruit to the bottom of the wine barrel. Those wine artists of years gone by,

understood this silent miracle. All they had to do was to be patient…and…wait! For a year or more they waited. As each day passed, their excitement grew. Then, finally, the day of celebration arrived! With their wine thief in hand, they drew out a small amount of the wine and slowly released it into their wine goblet. Raising the goblet to their nose, they smelled the fragrance of the grape. It was a good, pure and refreshing smell! Next, came the color of the wine. It was bright, clear and vibrant! Now the moment of the greatest anticipation…the ‘First Taste’! Raising the goblet slowly to the lips, the fate was sealed. The ‘Taste’…’Flavor’ and ‘Bouquet’ of the wine rang out loud and clear. With the wine artists care, and the restive hand of gravity, another fabulous vintage of wine was born! The story that I have just told is true! This story has been repeated by wine artists for most of our human existence. It is the story of the finest wines in the world. It is the story of our collective heritage. It is the story of… ”UNFILTERED WINES”!! So, as an informed consumer, you are now empowered to judge and select a perfect bottle of wine! All that you need to look for is the word on the wine label… ”UNFILTERED”! If you need further info or encouragement, please feel free to contact me or stop by our vineyard and winery. All that we produce are…Unfiltered Wines! (PS: I’ve postponed cutting up the fallen tree. After writing this Blog, I’m thinking of turning it into a memorial. However, I should tell you, my wife thinks…otherwise!) Thank You…’Salute and Happy Days’!

This ‘Green Winer’ wine Blog is created by me, Larry Woodham. The views and statements contained herein are exclusively mine. They do not necessarily reflect the views of TownTaster magazine. If you have any comments or questions on this Blog or suggestions for future Blogs, please email me at BunkerHillVine@aol.com.

Be a

Gecko’s Grill & Pub

TownTaster Magazine and Gecko’s Grill & Pubs want you to nominate that special person who makes a difference. Each month, we will feature one new “HomeTown Hero” and reward them with a $50 Gecko’s gift card. To nominate someone special, go to www.TownTaster.com or www.GeckosGrill.com for official rules and form. Or you may pick up a form from one of your five local Gecko’s locations. Questions may be directed to geckoshometownhero@towntaster.com

Home of the

$2 Margarita! Text

941-677-1187 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)

MEXICAN RESTAURANT

941-723-4300

www.elsombrero941.com

EVERY DAY

SPECIALS! MON: $1 MARGARITAS, $1 ENCHILADAS TUE: $1 TACO TUESDAY WED: $2 MARGARITAS $5 MEXICAN BULLDOG THR: ALL DAY HAPPY HOUR FRI - SUN : $1.5O PINTS, $2 MARGARITAS 11am - 6pm EVERY DAY SPECIALS: KIDS, UNDER 6 EAT FREE, MON-THR TILL 6pm

Open 7 Days A Week, 11am - 9pm 9

Boat Friendly Dining

hat could be better than relaxing at one of our area’s finest waterfront restaurants? Getting there by boat of course! Arriving at a restaurant by car isn’t the same as basking in the glory of the sun and cruising up the beautiful waterways to the dock of your favorite dockside dinner destinations. There is something to be said about being able to wind down on the water before strolling off a boat and walking up to the smell of lunch or dinner waiting for you! Right here in our area, we have many gorgeous places you can dock and dine just a short trip from wherever you put your boat into the water. Located on the bayside of Longboat Key near Intercoastal Mile Marker #39, the Mar Vista Dockside Restaurant and Pub is serving up seafood, salads, sandwiches and more. Don’t forget to try one of their famous Steamer Pots! Down the way in beautiful Sarasota Bay (Waypoint: N 27 19.980 W82 32.7888) Marina Jack is the destination for a panoramic view of the bay and downtown area with sounds from live bands seven nights a week. A perfect spot in their newly remodeled dining room will make you feel at home for an amazing lunch, dinner or even their fantastic Sunday brunch. Cruise on over to the Manatee River and you will find no shortage of delightful docks waiting for you! On the north side of the river, stop on by Riverhouse Reef & Grill where there are plenty of spots to tie up your boat for a stroll along the boat lined dock. Another perfect place for a birds eye view of everything around. Their menu is chock full of favorite dishes that will have you coming back again and again! Bella Mia Grill is just up the river beyond the bridges and another stellar place to find good food, good fun and great people. Italian food at it’s finest – pair it with a glass of wine and a great view and you have a piece of paradise. One more stop on the north side of the river, a bit further east and you will land at Woody’s River Roo. Who can resist a delicious juicy Cheeseburger or perfect Peel and Eat Shrimp? After a boat-ride in the warm breeze, both are perfect picks to go with a cold beer or cocktail! Need more choices on your Manatee River route? Look no further than on the other side of the river. Tarpon Pointe Grill is the newest option to choose from – with their 3,000 sq. ft. Tiki Bar, live entertainment and variety of menu options will keep you entertained during your visit. If you are looking for some action, their outdoor activities are complete with corn hole, volleyball courts and an observation deck. A short skip away; Pier 22 is a sophisticated yet casual spot for any occasion. Lunch with friends, a dinner with a loved one or for planning that special event – they have what you are looking for. So next time you find yourself on a boat cruising around our beautiful area, keep these places in mind. You will not be disappointed no matter where the current takes you!

Mar Vis

Bella Mia Grill 1

Marina Jack 2 Marina Plaza Sarasota, FL 34236 941.365.4232 www.marinajacks.com

Pier 22 1200 1st Ave. West Bradenton, FL 34209 941.748.8087 www.pier22dining.com

Riverhouse Reef & Grill 995 Riverside Drive Palmetto, FL 34221 www.riverhousereef.com

Tarpon Pointe Grill 801 Riverside Dr. E. Bradenton, FL 34208 941.746.8700 www.tarponpointegrill.com

Woodyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s River Roo 5717 18th Street East Ellenton, FL 34222 941.722.2391 www.woodysriverroo.com

sta Dockside Restaurant & Pub

Riverhouse Reef & Grill

* Cover Photo Courtesy of Riverhouse Reef & Grill

Bella Mia Grill 102 Riviera Dunes Way Palmetto, FL 34221 941.479.7827 Mar Vista Dockside Restaurant & Pub 760 Broadway Street North Longboat Key, FL 34228 941.383.2391 www.marvista.groupersandwich.com

Serving you for over 30 years!

749- 0105 1914 14th Street West • Bradenton, FL Open Mon - Sun • 11am - 9pm

REAL I TA L I A N FOOD!

Every Day Special $5

(2 slices of cheese pizza & 20 oz. beverage)

E SE 16” CHEA PIZZ $11.50

OUR NEW YORK STYLE PIZZA

is made with fresh dough under the supervision of our expert pizza chefs.

aster” wnT To

This restaura nt

isited by an “ Of fi

v en be

D APPROVE om

.c w.TownTaster

Appetizer: Sicilian Rice BallS Entrées: c HicKen maRSala & WHiTe PiZZa

Interesting Menu Items

SICILIAN RICE BALLS - Rice, carrots, peas and onions in small balls with delicious marinara sauce called “ARANCINA”

Favorite Menu Item

1914 14th Street West, Bradenton 34205 941.749.0105

ChICkEN MARSALA - It was to die for!

Kid Friendly: YeS ~ Easy to Find: YeS ~ Reservations: nO ~ Would you Recommend? YeS

Atmosphere/ Ambiance

Comments

“Or waitress, Amy, was the server and brought our food promptly and with a smile! It was she who suggested the unusual appetizer. My companion had the white pizza, a combination of mozzarella & ricotta atop a New York style thin crust. I suggested adding a little garlic to take it from good to divine!”

The room was large and well lit with tables for 2, 4 and large group booths decorated with Italian tile & black pendant lights. The restaurant was about half full, families and couples and one large group. No music, but it was a typical neighborhood pizzeria: noisy and punctuated with laughter!

Favorite Aspect of Restaurant It felt like I was at Grandma’s! Everyone was friendly & talkative.

Interesting Facts

Antoinette Barreca, the owner, and her son Joe have been in business for over 30 years and at this location over 20 years. Recently the ownership has changed hands to Joe and his brother, who does the cooking.

A special thanks to this issue's TownTaster

Heather Hurley

for giving their stamp of approval to SAN REMO!

About our TownTaster:

Age: 60’s • Hometown: Bradenton Hobbies: Computers, Volunteering • Favorite Food: Steak, Pizza

1515

s n o i t c e l e S h c n u L 8

8 $ R e d n FoR U

$5 oFF

TTM

on any check over $30.00. Present coupon, not valid with other coupons or offers, one per table. dine in only. expires: 12-31-12

on the Corner of Lorraine & SR 70 Lunch & dinner daily  direct TV Sports Package Outdoor Patio  Banquet & Meeting Room Full Liquor Bar  Sunday Brunch Buffet $14.99 14475 SR 70 • Lakewood Ranch

941.756.9400

www.theranchflorida.com

Hours: 11am - Close Sunday: 10am - Close Happy Hour 4-7pm and 9pm to Close

$3 oFF

TTM

SUnday BRUnCh BUFFeT

Present coupon, one per person. dine in only. expires: 12-31-12. not valid with other coupons or offers.

Kids eat

FRee

on WedneSdayS ages Ten & Under, Selections from the Children’s Menu

Up to two children per adult entree purchase. not valid with other coupons. dine in only.

10% Discount on Food Items Gratefully Provided for Active Military-EMT-Fire Rescue-Police-Teachers. Discount good for credential carrier only. Kindly provide ID

Hours: Monday - Sunday • 11am - Close

On the corner of Lorraine & SR 70

50’s and 60’s Style Ice Cream Shop Classic Signature Creations Cones • Bowls • Smoothies Shakes • Sundaes • Popcorn Pretzels • Cookies & Sweets

10% entire Your OFF order!

Present coupon, not valid with other coupons or offers, one per order. Exp.12/31/2012

Party room

Available

ook and Get 16

For a limited time only!

SCan ThIS Code Look for the Like Us Coupon On Our Facebook Page & Redeem an awesome Coupon!

P: 941.756.9440 www.memorylaneicecream.com

Toppings

Lunches 17

Tips for fast and healthy lunchboxes… The relaxing summer will soon be over and the school time rush will soon be upon us. Listen up moms - with a little planning we can help you keep the lunchbox blues away. Packing lunches doesn’t always have to be a part of the morning rush. We have put together some great tips for packing quick easy lunches that are healthy too! - Pack lunches the night before and put the whole box into refrigerator for an easy morning. (you have plenty else to worry about. You know... missing shoes, stains on shirts and last minute homework!) - Freeze yogurts, puddings, or juice boxes and throw in lunchbox in the morning to double as an ice pack. - Fill reusable water bottles the night before and take out in the morning – an eco-friendly alternative to plastic bottles and juice boxes. - PB&J sandwiches can also be frozen. Make several ahead of time and freeze for the whole week. - Always have dried fruits, nuts, pretzels, raisins, etc. on hand. Bag them in snack bags at the beginning of the week to easily grab when making lunches. - Fresh fruit & veggies are a must and easy to toss in a lunchbox. - Get into a routine of making lunches, if it becomes habit at a certain time each evening it will not seem so daunting. And, while you are packing the kids lunchboxes, don’t forget to pack one for yourself!

Pe r u v i a n Fu s i o n C u i s i n e

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 fo r exq u isite Peruvi a n Del icacies

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

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

Packing for Picky Eaters Tips from Chef Richard I have two small children and school lunches are always a topic. Picky eaters will throw food out or trade it for something they would rather have, most often for something unhealthy. My four year old is in Pre-K and we make lunch better than the same turkey sandwich or PB&J everyday. Remember, kids get bored of food too. • It starts with the lunchbox. It has to be cool and represent his or her style. Kids love to pick out the theme but make sure it’s insulated and also pick up a few reusable ice packs to keep food safe to eat. 4 hours in a brown paper bag isn’t going to keep the lunch a correct temperature. • Have the kids help plan the meal and help prep it. My son Jackson might not want his sandwich if I make it, but if he has a part in it he loves it. I normally make it and let him use a cookie cutter to make shapes; he likes a gingerbread man sandwich complete with raisins for eyes. Also packing healthy snacks like carrots and celery sticks will get eaten if they participate. They can help rinse the veggies and help wrap them up, you will be surprised how this psychology will work. • A ham and cheese wrap is more likely to be eaten if simply rolled up and sliced into fun pinwheels. • Always think of ways to use leftovers from dinner. Many things are delicious in-between two slices of bread or rolled in flat bread. Sunday night’s chicken with black beans and mango salsa is Monday's chicken pinwheel with black bean spread and mango salsa. If my son helps roll it… it gets eaten!

Wild Ideas Peel a banana, put it on a hot dog bun and squirting peanut butter and jelly on it.

a i l o n Mag l l a M Antique

2006-2012 PEOPLE’S CHOICE AWARDS

3411 U.S. Hwy 301, Ellenton, FL

Chef Richard Chaney is a personal chef in Sarasota. Specializing in preparing gourmet meals for special occasions, dinner parties, private cooking classes or a romantic dinner for two. Visit his website www. Mysarasotachef.com or call 941.223.9040 for more information.

Our favorite places to eat are:

Bella Mia Grill

Come shop with us before you go to lunch! Glass & China Antiques Collectibles Fine Gifts Howards Refinishing Products Gift Certificates

About 1 mile W of I-75 exit #224

941-722-5255 Open Mon - Sat 10-5, Sun 12-5 19

Can you believe it’s almost ‘Back To School’ time again? How does this happen? Is Father Time on speed? Wasn’t it just New Year’s Eve? Oy! Any minute now, your little ones - and your not so little ones - will be begging for new shoes, new folders and possibly a new car (double oy!) to start the school year off right. Parents know that the most important thing a kid needs for a good school year is the proper fuel. We aren’t talking about the gas station, we’re talking about food, of course! And to be specific, we’re talking about proteins, which aid in body function and mental clarity and just so happen to be wildly abundant in our MapleCinnamon Almond Bars. In honor of Back To School season, let’s have a little lesson on proteins, shall we? Proteins are biochemical compounds consisting of one or more polypeptides typically folded into a globular or fibrous form, facilitating a biological function. Many proteins are enzymes that catalyze biochemical reactions and are vital to metabolism. * Umm. Say what?

Maple-Cinnamon Almond Bars 1 16-ounce jar smooth roasted almond butter, such as Barney Butter 2/3 cup pure maple syrup, grade b 2 eggs 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1/2 teaspoon coarse sea salt 1 teaspoon baking soda oil for greasing pan Heat oven to 325 degrees. Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with grapeseed or vegetable oil. In a large bowl, combine almond butter, maple syrup, eggs, cinnamon, salt, and baking soda. Beat on medium speed until smooth and completely incorporated. Scrape mixture into prepared pan and smooth into an even layer. Bake on center rack until deep golden brown and edges are pulling from side, about 30-35 minutes. Allow to cool completely before cutting.

Let’s break that down a bit further, yes? Proteins are essential parts of organisms and participate in virtually every process within cells. Our nerves, tissues and bones all are made up of proteins. So proteins become very necessary to grow and repair. Proteins also have structural or mechanical functions, including producing antibodies which fight bacteria, viruses, toxins and many foreign substances that are harmful for the body. Also, the ever impressive proteins are a necessary part of the human diet and aid in obtaining essential amino acids from food. Essentially, proteins are responsible for making your body run properly. Thus, eating our protein packed Almond Bars is one of the best things you can do for your body! If you think chicken breasts and ribeyes are the best source of protein, think again. Almond butter has several grams of dietary protein as well as a slew of other health benefits such as being great for the heart, lowering blood pressure, having a ton of antioxidants, helping with weight control and controlling blood sugar. Adding eggs to the mix gives these bars a one-two protein punch as eggs have the highest biological value of any food, including beef. Plus, eggs are packed full of riboflavin, folate, vitamins B6, B12, D, and E, and iron, phosphorus, and zinc. Yummy, right? Who doesn’t love zinc? This perfect snack is also gluten-free and has a very minimal amount of natural sugars. The almond butter magically turns into cake without any flour, making it the perfect lunch box dessert. If you want to get crazy and live on the edge, mix in a cup of dark chocolate chips and let your growing kids eat the entire pan of these in an afternoon. For more great recipes, plus cool articles and awesome videos, visit www.threekitcheneers.com EDITORS NOTE: As soon as this recipe came in, we rushed into the kitchen to whip up a batch. No doubt – this recipe is a keeper. They passed the kids taste test with flying colors (as well as mom’s) *Scientific information found from Wikipedia

Check out www.ThreeKitcheneers.com for recipes, articles and webisodes. All food, all the time.

Beverly Scott is the founder of Gluten Free by Beverly, Inc., a wholesale business in Sarasota, Florida producing gluten-free Italian frozen foods.

Just wondering why some ingredients are listed on a label as containing gluten yet on another label the same ingredients may be listed as gluten-free? Is it possible to remove all gluten from gluten-containing products to make them gluten-free? I know this is true with oats. I’m not so sure with everything. Acacia supposedly contains gluten and yet I’ve seen it listed as “gluten-free.” Please explain. Thanks for hosting your new column. Dear Mary Ann,   As far as I know there is no way to remove gluten from the grains containing gluten. Oats do not contain gluten naturally, but usually are processed using the same equipment as other grains, when cross contamination becomes a problem. With the increase in demand for gluten-free products, oats are now processed separately by many food producers. People with Celiac consuming oat products, however, remains a controversy. On an excellent site for information, Livingstrong, the gluten and oats topic is discussed at http://www.livestrong.com/article/407567does-oat-bran-contain-gluten/#ixzz1yubrF0KK and they state, “The term gluten refers to a variety of proteins produced by plants, including the gliadin in wheat, secalin in rye, hordein in barley, and avenin in oats. Grain kernels are composed of the endosperm that is ground to make refined flour, the germ portion that serves as the seed for the plant, and the outer coating known as bran. If you have celiac disease and eat gluten from wheat, rye, or barley, your body identifies those proteins as foreign bodies and attacks them. The evidence about the avenin found in oat bran is not conclusive, according to the Celiac Sprue Association.”

On another page, http://www.livestrong.com/article/366274-dosteel-cut-oats-contain-gluten/#ixzz1yu9isv3x , they also state, “Steel cut oats are a whole grain, like wheat, rye, and barley, but they contain higher levels of protein than other grains, according to Drugs.com. The proteins in oats differ from those in the other grains as well. The protein gluten occurs in rye, wheat, and barley at high levels, but is absent from oats when they are harvested. However, gluten contamination may occur during processing into oat groats, steel cut oats, rolled oats, or oatmeal.” So the differences you are seeing on labels regarding oats is related to the processing. There has not been a removal of gluten. Oats that have not been contaminated may be labeled as gluten-free simply to make that point for people who must remain gluten-free. Acacia gum is listed as gluten-free at http://www.celiac.com/ articles/181/1/Safe-Gluten-Free-Food-List-Safe-Ingredients/ Page1.html . I find marketing descriptions for organic acacia fiber that indicate that it is gluten-free although I suspect that it is not because of anything being done to change its nature, but rather for thorough disclosure for those who must remain gluten-free.

German Beer Garden

Coming in

September

GERMAN BEERS & HOMEMADE GERMAN FOOD

Weddings • Catering Events & More! Make your next event fabulous with a little help... TownTaster Magazine’s September issue will have it all.

304 15TH Street West bradenton • 941-748-5658 www.germaninnbradenton.com reservation@germaninnbradenton.com Mon - Fri • 4:00 - 8:30 Sat - Sun • 4:00 - 9:30 (Closed Wednesday)

Daily Teatime 11:30-4:00 • Reservations Requested

Available for Catering & Weddings

(941)

10%

off

Dine-In Only

Not valid with any other offers. Must present coupon or mention this ad by 8/31/12.

For more information on advertising your specialty service in this special issue, call 941.548.1908 or email events@towntaster.com

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 4:30pm Dinner Mon. - Sat. Lunch 11am - 3pm, (941) 761-9100 Visit us in Bradenton: “Thai Palace Restaurant”, 4756 Cortez Rd. W.

Peruvian Fusion Cuisine 1813 Fruitville Rd., Sarasota • (941) 343-2280

322 S. Washington Blvd., Sarasota • (941) 330-1300

C o u p o n

C o r n e r

10% OFF

With this coupon. Offer valid through 8/31/12. Must present this coupon. TownTaster Magazine. One certificate per table. Not to be combined with any other offer or coupon.

515 27th St. E. Bradenton, FL 34208 (941) 745-1540

FREE Bruschetta

with purchase of menu item.

1 OFF imported beer $ 5 OFF bottle of wine

-OR -

With this coupon. Offer valid through 8/31/12. Limit one coupon per person per visit. TownTaster Magazine. Not to be combined with any other offer or coupon.

The German Inn Bed & Breakfast

304 15th Street West, Bradenton • 941-748-5658

10% off

Weekly Dining Specials

With this coupon. Offer valid through 8/31/12. Dine-in only, limit 1 certificate per table. TownTaster Magazine. Not to be combined with any other offer or coupon.

With this coupon. Offer valid through 8/31/12. Dine-in only, limit 1 per person, per visit. TownTaster Magazine. Not to be combined with any other offer or coupon.

6621 Midnight Pass Rd., Sarasota • (941) 349-1792

14475 SR 70, Lakewood Ranch • (941) 756-9440

15% OFF Dine-In Only

With this coupon. Offer valid through 8/31/12. Limit one coupon per person per visit. TownTaster Magazine. Not to be combined with any other offer or coupon.

10% OFF Your Entire Order

With this coupon. Offer valid through 12/31/12. Dine-in only, limit 1 per order. TownTaster Magazine. Not to be combined with any other offer or coupon.

Prima Donna Ristorante Italiano

5718 Cortez Rd., Bradenton • (941) 896-9744

$5 OFF of $25 or more - OR -

BUY 1, Get 1 50% OFF (Lunch or Dinner) With this coupon. Offer valid through 8/31/12. Dine-in only, limit 1 certificate per table. TownTaster Magazine. Not to be combined with any other offer or coupon.

14475 SR 70, Lakewood Ranch • (941) 756-9400

$5 OFF

on any check over $30 limit 1 per table

- OR -

$3 OFF

Sunday Brunch Buffet limit 1 per person

With this coupon. Offer valid through 12/31/12. Dine-in only. TownTaster Magazine. Not to be combined with any other offer or coupon.

SAIGON HIBACHI

Vietnamese Cuisine & Japanese Grill 995 Riverside Drive, Palmetto • (941) 729-0616

FREE Appetizer with purchase of 2 Entrees

With this coupon. Offer valid through 8/31/12. Limit 1 certificate per table. TownTaster Magazine. Not to be combined with any other offer or coupon.

935 N. Beneva Rd., Sarasota, FL • (941) 487-8711

50% OFF

Second entreé of equal or lesser value With this coupon. Offer valid through 8/31/12. Limit one coupon per person per visit. TownTaster Magazine. Not to be combined with any other offer or coupon.



Try something new... You know you want to! 935 N. Beneva Rd., #401, Sarasota • 706-3848 • 365-7799

10% OFF Dine In Only

With this coupon. Offer valid through 8/31/12. Limit one coupon per person per visit. TownTaster Magazine. Not to be combined with any other offer or coupon.