TownTaster July/August 2013

TownTaster M

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July/August 2013

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Volume 2 • Issue 8

COCONUT OIL Page 7

A FOODIE’S TOUR OF THE ISLANDS Page 9

The Saucy Sicilian

TEXT w w w.To w nTa s t e r. c o m

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Page 15

"LOVEFOOD"

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Summer's Sizzling!

July/August 2013 Volume 2, Issue 8 Publisher

PCI Publishing, LLC

Editor

Valerie Longo 941-932-8884

Web Design

Syd Krawczyk Concept Digital Media

Social Media Lenny Longo

Graphic Design Mara Stork

Contributing Authors

Michelle Bobikevich The Green Winer The Saucy Sicilian The Three Kitcheneers Will Manson, BeacHhouse Restaurant Cover Menu Item: Grilled Tuna Kabobs from BeacHhouse Restaurant Cover Photo: Photo by Dara Caudill www.islandphotography.org 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 bi-monthly.

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From the Editor

Summer is officially underway and there is a buzz around our area’s most popular Valerie Longo destination – the BEACH! We are blessed to live in an area that promotes relaxing, indulging, experiencing and enjoying. A place where some only dream about coming once in a lifetime, we have in our own backyard. True, many of us don’t often take advantage of these pleasures as often as we should, but now we want to give you some mouth watering reasons.

We think this may be one of the most exciting issues we have put together. Along our journey to find the tastiest island treats, we got a taste of island life and all it’s pleasures. We hope you enjoy our “Tour of the Islands” this issue. And don’t forget to tell us all about your adventures with our survey on page 22. One lucky reader will win a $50 restaurant gift certificate. We look forward to hearing all about your experiences!

This issue we bring you reader reviews from Andrea’s on Siesta Drive and newly opened Jager’s Tavern on Tuttle Ave. If you haven’t already signed up to be a TownTaster – get to it! Each month we choose two of our readers to dive into a local restaurant and give their review of the experience to share with our TownTaster foodies. It's an unique opportunity and a chance to try something new! Visit our website to enter or mail in your name, address and phone number with a note telling us that you want to enter.

So, bring your TownTaster magazine out to the beach for a relaxing break. And when you are through soaking up the rays – visit one of our friendly culinary partners we have featured along the tour and they will be happy to serve you up a little bit of happiness on a plate!

Get weekly specials exclusively for TownTaster readers sent right to your phone!

Just text LOVEFOOD to 72727 to start getting updates.*

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Each month we will select a random number from those who sign up to receive a FREE gift certificate to a local restaurant!

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2

Our 5th Ann g n i iver at r b s ele

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

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ON THE COVER Grilled Tuna Kabobs paired with Lola Pinot Noir BeacHhouse Restaurant Recipe on page 8

IN THIS ISSUE The Three Kitcheneers Coconut Oil............................. 7 The Green Winer The Story of RosĂŠ...................... 8 A Foodie's Tour of the Islands............................... 9 Love to Eat & Eat to Live Control.................................. 15 The Saucy Sicilian Zucchini Agro Dolce............... 17

Reviewed by You Jager Tavern & Grill................ 18 Andrea's................................ 21 Snapper Collars, BeacHhouse Restaurant Photo by Dara Caudill www.islandphotography.org

JULY/AUGUST TASTE-FUL EVENTS

In addition to our local calendar events, we decided to bring you some fun one-tank trip ideas to satisfy your summer foodie cravings while tapping into your adventurous side!

July 2

July 20

Mar Vista Fireworks Celebration on beautiful Sarasota Bay at the northern tip of Longboat Key. Seats available for $25. Regular menu and specials offered.

Come by Boat or Car for a fantastic show and the kick off to your Independence Day weekend celebration.

Tastes of the Beaches include auctions, raffles, tastes from over 25 restaurants and live music. 7701 Boca Ciega Dr., St. Pete Beach, FL 33706. 4-9pm.

Tickets $25 includes 10 food tickets.

July 3

Rolling Pin Kitchen Emporium

3 Annual Boom Boom on the Bay rd

20 Annual BeacHhouse Fireworks Extravaganza th

Family Fun, Fresh Seafood and Fireworks from 7-10 PM! VIP Party Packages available. For more information visit www.groupersandwihc.com/news or call 941-779-2222.

July 4

27th Annual Sandbar Fireworks Spectacular Fireworks, Fresh Seafood and Fun for the Whole Family. 6-10 PM. VIP Pavilion Party Packages are available for $125 per adult, $50 per child under 12.

Complete tables of eight and ten are also available.

For details visit www.groupersandwich.com/news or call 941-778-8709.

July 11

Charity Bar Night for Humane Society

Happy Hour all Night! Get ready to raise your glasses and fill the tip jars for the Humane Society of Manatee County. Come join the party with celebrity bartenders.

6-9pm. Polo Grill & Bar, 10670 Boardwalk Loop, Lakewood Ranch. 941-782-0899

July 18

American Whiskey: Bourbon, Rye & Wheat at Michael’s On East

Turner C. Moore will present a tasting showcasing American Whiskey, covering Bourbon, Rye & Wheat.

1283 S. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota. 6:30 pm. $35 per person. For Reservations call 941-955-CORK.

St. Pete Beach Sizzlin’ Summer Bash

July 27

Join Mark O’Brien July 27, 1-4pm For A FREE Kitchen Products Demonstration. Brandon Crossroads, 2080 Badlands Drive, Brandon, FL 33511. 813- 653-2418. www.rollingpinonline.com

August 3 WaZoo

Named a Top 10 Beer Festival in America by USA Today, WaZoo, features Zoo-wide samplings of more than 275 beers and beverages from around the world.

Enjoy great food from Bay Area restaurants, live music presented by World of Beer. 7:30-10:30pm. Lowry Park Zoo, More info, visit www.lowryparkzoo.com or call 813935-8552 for ticket options and prices.

August 10

24th Annual Share Our Strength’s Taste of the Nation® Orlando

Showcasing the talent and creativity of Central Florida’s leading chefs and restaurants in a culinary fundraising event to end childhood hunger. Cocktail/Semi-Formal, $150 per person. 6:45-10 p.m. Orlando World Center Marriott, 8701 World Center Dr., Orlando. www.ce.strength.org/Orlando.

August 15

Dine Tampa Bay Celebri-Chef Cook-Off

Join us to kick-off Dine Tampa Bay Restaurant Week and cheer on your favorite local chef, celebrity or media personality as they compete in a mystery cook-off!

6-9PM. 4121 N 50th St, Tampa, FL 33610. Tickets $25

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COCONUT OIL This summer I would like to introduce to you, the Coconut!

Natures finest creations. We searched high and low for something the coconut couldn't do and well, it was an epic fail. Yea, we know, it doesn't vacuum or do laundry but it does do a ton of other incredible things. From cooking to hair care, it does it all, literally in a nutshell. Get it? :) In Cooking: Coconut oil is a stable oil that doesn’t break down easily at high temperatures like other oils do. It doesn’t go rancid easily and has amazing nutritional properties.

It is great for cooking eggs, stir fries, grain free baked goods, and practically any other cooking use.

Skin Lotion: Coconut oil is without question my favorite body lotion. It absorbs quickly and doesn’t leave an oily feeling at all. It makes skin incredibly silky and has wonderful antibacterial/antimicrobial properties. If you want to get really creative, add a couple drops of your favorite essential oil for scent.

In Smoothies: It’s sweet and nutty taste makes coconut oil a great addition to smoothies. It creates a wonderfully creamy texture and makes smoothies rich and smooth. It also adds a bounty of nutrients and a big dose of healthy fats.

Homemade Mayo: If you’ve never made your own mayo, try it today!

Making mayo is really simple and the taste of homemade mayo beats storebought versions hands down.

By making mayo with a mix of coconut and olive oils, you get a great dose of saturated and monounsaturated fats without the additives and artificial ingredients.

Great Snacks: Because it is so filling and nutrient dense, coconut oil is a great addition for healthy snacks.

Since coconut oil is solid at cold temperatures, it is great for making no bake cookies and desserts in the fridge or freezer. Try our NO BAKE CLUSTERS: recipe below and at threekitcheneers.com Eye Make-Up Remover: Coconut oil is an excellent eye make-up remover that has been reported to help remove wrinkles and help restore elasticity to the skin.

Dandruff Remedy and Hair Conditioner: Coconut oil can effectively get rid of dandruff when rubbed into the scalp a couple times a week. It does make hair oily,so try rubbing it on the scalp before bed and washing out in the morning.

For Shaving: Using coconut oil in the shower as a shaving soap gives a smooth shave with no irritation.

I also use it as a body moisturizer when I get out of the shower. I smell delicious.

In Coffee or Tea: As strange as this might sounds, melting a teaspoon or so of coconut oil in a hot beverage is an easy way to get extra coconut in for the health benefits.

So, there you have it, just a few of life’s little miracles from the itsy bitsy coconut! Now go get some and start bathing in it!! Happy Summer to you from The Three Kitcheneers!

No Bake Clusters Ingredients: 1 cup raw rolled oats ½ cup raw walnuts 1 tbsp coconut oil 3 tbsp honey or agave ½ tsp vanilla ¼ tsp salt ½ cup raw chocolate chips

In a small sauce pan on medium heat, melt chocolate chips.

Mix all ingredients in a bowl and make clusters. Place each cluster on wax paper on a baking sheet and place in refrigerator until set.

Serve!

Massage Oil: Coconut oil makes a great tropical smelling massage oil.

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

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COVER RECIPE Tuna Kabobs

8 oz. of yellow fin tuna 1 each red bell pepper 1 each red onion 4 each pineapple wedges 2 each 10 inch bamboo skewers

THE STORY OF

Method: Cut tuna into 6 large cubes. Cut veggies same size and oven roast to par cook. Skewer Tuna and Vegetables alternating colors. Put Pineapple wedges on the end to hold everything together. Char grill until tuna is cooked medium.

Baste with sesame Ginger Dressing. Serve over rice.

Dressing: 1/2 cup soy sauce 1/2 cup rice Vinegar 1 cup olive oil 1/2 cup honey 1 tbsp. sesame oil 1 pinch of crushed red pepper 1 each lime squeezed salt and pepper to taste Place all ingredients in a mixing bowl except the oils.

Whisk together and drizzle oils in slowly until emulsified.

Use as a marinade and a basting sauce.

Will Manson, Kitchen Manager BeacHhouse Restaurant

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Rosé

WINE!

We make four types of Rose’ wines at BHV. Three are natural Rose’s and one is subjective. I have always relished their soft colors and unique tastes and quiet fragrances. The truth is, I’d rather sip one of these Rose’s than any other fine wine! It seems to me the scent of the fruit is much closer to the surface in these Rose’ wines than in any other type of wine. Spring, Summer, Fall and Winter, there’s a perfect Rose’ wine for every season!

The story of Rose’ wine is as old as the history of wine making. Often, we consider Rose’ wines as a modern innovation…it’s NOT. From the very beginning, our ancestors were creating world-class Red, White and Rose’ wines. For most of our wine making history, these three wine types sat on the same pedestal as equals.

Just the other day, I was reminded how precious and unique that a Rose’ wine can be.

At a mid-week wine tasting, one of our frequent guests brought her father. This was his first visit. I sincerely hope we see him often. For you see, her father was…96 years old! His life has spanned nearly a century! When I asked him what was his favorite type of wine he answered, without hesitation …ROSE’!

Of course, the first wine that we sampled was our natural “Le Robber Rose’” wine. As he raised his wine glass to his lips and tasted this Rose’ wine for the first time, all eyes were fixed upon his face. Everyone was anxiously anticipating his reaction. Then, slowly lowering his wine glass he broke into a smile! Eventually and with deliberation he exclaimed….“This is the way that I remember Rose’ wines”!

If it has been a while since you’ve sipped a Rose’ wine, perhaps, it is time that you revisit this dear friend.

Until we meet again… ”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.

A FOODIE’S TOUR OF THE ISLANDS A mini vacation, a carefree weekend, an extra day off, a fun–filled afternoon, or a rewarding sunset after work…

9

S

ummer is finally here! What is your ideal plan to soak up the sun and make the most of our steamy hot Florida summer days? There is something irresistible about the warmth of the sun seeping into your bones and the peaceful sound of the ocean. Our favorite is feasting on the freshest of seafood, the juiciest burger and beer you have ever tasted, and indulging in the freshest local snow crab around! The sun and fun is not the only thing that draws the island attention of locals and visitors. Award-winning beaches, a fisherman’s paradise and home to the areas finest chefs makes for a trifecta and our inspiration for bringing you this Foodie’s Tour of the Islands.

As we make our way down the coastline through white sandy beaches with gorgeous sunset backdrops, there is one thing that ties each and every one of our island stops together – fabulous FOOD! Being born and raised right here in Manatee County, we know all to well the enchanting pull the island has come the summertime. One thing we are always curious to know is what local chefs are cooking up. There is nothing like a satisfying meal and a cold drink after a walk on the beach or an afternoon lounging in the sun. Are you ready? We are about to embark on a tour that will ramp up your taste buds and get you excited to plan your next island adventure!

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Siesta Key Our tour begins on Siesta Key with authentic Peruvian dishes at Javier’s Restaurant. Located just over the bridge, Javier’s is a hidden gem where you will be pleasantly greeted by Mary & Javier who will impress you with their Tapas and Seafood. Be sure to try the Ceviche! Javier’s is well known for their dedication to using local, organic & sustainable ingredients and the quality is reflected in each and every menu item. A perfect date night location – get ready for a beautiful Siesta Key sunset and a memorable night in Peru!

St. Armand’s Circle Making our way north, Café L’Europe is a classic dining establishment and one of our top picks. In it’s original location, Café L’Europe has been serving up continental cuisine for 40 years. Dine on the patio or in the distinguished dining room and choose from a menu that has a proven track record. Their signature French Onion Soup is served up in a whole onion and many of their items are prepared table side, making the experience more than exquisite.

Longboat Key Heading north just a hop skip and a jump from our first stop – Mar Vista is a classic dive full of authenticity and the real Florida feel that serious foodies are looking for.

Mar Vista and it's family of island restaurants, Sandbar and BeacHhouse, know how to serve things up right!

Be sure to try some new, heritage menu items that cater to real foodies. Farm to Fork and Gulf to Table are words that owner Ed Chiles lives by. The proof is in the pudding

or, in this case, in dishes like Shrimp and Grits or Shrimp Pasta with locally harvested Cortez Bottarga, Baked Clams made with clams from Terra Ceia or the Heirloom Tomato Salad with tomatoes from Geraldson Farms.

Don’t forget the fresh fish on the special list, caught daily by longtime company fisherman and crabber Anthony Manali. Finish it off with the Key Lime Pie, their own recipe and locally made. Pair it with a bottle of Lola Wine from local wine guy, Seth Cripe, and you have a perfect meal. Authentic. Local. Foodie Heaven.

Now, I wouldn’t be a good tour guide if I didn’t point out some cool things that are unique to our islands! Whether you are a visitor who just found TownTaster or a local who is taking our advice and is eager to explore your backyard treasures, a trolley service is available to give you a tourist’s view of the island. Running every 30 minutes from Coquina Beach to St. Armand’s, the Longboat Key trolley is only 75¢. On the north end, the Anna Maria Trolley is FREE and runs every 20 minutes from Coquina Beach to the Anna Maria City Pier. Save some gas and enjoy the ride!

Bradenton Beach As we continue our tour of paradise, we head into the Island of Anna Maria where the relaxing continues and flip-flops are a way of life. Once you have exhausted yourself seeing the sites on the southern beaches, we highly recommend making a reservation at Sharky’s on Gulf Drive. Award-winning Chef Anton and wife Marie have been serving up the finest surf & turf for the last 30 years. Open for dinner only, from 4pm, their classic dishes start the menu off right with a variety of shrimp, mussels and shark bites. Be sure to save room for their specialty items such as Lobster Spring Rolls, Stuffed Tilapia or the Filet grilled to perfection. Fine cuisine at a reasonable price is a perfect way to impress your date or out of town guests without breaking the bank.

Holmes Beach As we continue cruising up the coast, we were thrilled to find a hidden treasure nestled in the back of the Vitamin

5604 Marina Drive Holmes Beach, FL 34217 (941) 567-6130 www.islandfreshmarketami.com

Local, Organic & Sustainable Peruvian American Cuisine and South American Tapas

6621 Midnight Pass Rd. in Crescent Plaza Just over the south bridge on Siesta Key

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Olive Oils • Dipping Oils Balsalmic Vinegar-Glaze Sauces • Soaps 401 Pine Avenue, Anna Maria, FL 34216 (941) 896-3132 • oliveoiloutpost.com

Continued on next page 11

A Foodies Tour of the Island Continued Seas Health Food store in the plaza on East Bay Drive.

Newly opened Starfish Café owned and operated by Tami & Roland, their dedication to serving local, organic and vegan friendly fare is outstanding. What began as a local coffee bar blossomed into a café with a menu full of juices, smoothies, protein shakes, soups, salads and sandwiches. For those of you who take a special interest in knowing the components of each and every morsel that goes into your mouth – there is NO guesswork here.

For all our health conscious readers out there, make plans for a morning run along the beach and then settle in for a pick me up at the Starfish Café!

In between your fun and sun in the sand, consider soaking up some local history at the many historical venues showcasing old Florida. The Anna Maria City Pier at the tip of the island is a picturesque place to snap some photos and 402 Pine Avenue is the home to the Anna Maria Historical Society.

Here you can visit the museum, the Belle Haven Cracker Cottage, City Jail and the Mangrove Walk’s indigenous garden.

Anna Maria As we reach the last leg of our tour, there is no shortage of great food and fun. As the winding road takes us deeper into the island, The Feast Restaurant is another stop that is well worth the trip. And one of the highlights for this tour is the special summer offering at The Feast! The All You Can Eat Snow Crab is back by popular demand and is sure to make you smile.

For only $23, you can feast on these local beauties!

Casual fine dining at it’s greatest – you will be treated like family and dine on an incredible menu! They have a kid’s menu along with a selection of gourmet hand tossed pizzas with the freshest ingredients around.

There is really something for everyone here!

As we have learned, Anna Maria is rich in history, and so is Duffy’s Tavern! Family owned for the last 35 years, the set of five sisters who run the restaurant learned from the best and keep the traditions rolling.

Known for their fresh burgers and ice-cold beer, Duffy’s is a family friendly place to come as you are and see what all the talk is about. Voted one of the top 10 12

“hamburger heavens” in the country by USA Today – we promise you can’t go wrong! Casual attire and bathing suits are welcome here – a satisfying end to a great day splashing in the warm gulf waters.

As we wrap up our Foodie’s Tour of the Islands we must insist that you head home with a souvenir. And what better take away for a foodie like you than some fresh local seafood, fruits, veggies, spices and side dishes to prepare at home tomorrow? As you walk into Island Fresh Market, you step into a market full treats and goodies that will make you hungry again. Owner, Nancy Feely has incredible knowledge of culinary arts and seafood. You will enjoy talking to her as she answers any questions you may have and gives you tips and ideas of how to best enjoy your tasty souvenirs!

While we have you thinking about preparing your next tasty meal at home, our final stop at the tip of the island on beautiful Pine Avenue is the Anna Maria Olive Oil Outpost. An old time front porch is a warm

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The beach is a place that is so close but yet sometimes seems so distant as we go about our busy lives each day. If there is only one thing that you add to your calendar today – make it a trip to the beach. No matter what the duration of your island visit – make sure you bring along TownTaster! We want to be your tour guide to the culinary marvels that are right here on our beautiful islands…

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Love to Eat & Eat to Live It’s Not a Diet, it’s Math

By Lenny Longo

CONTROL

Along my weight loss journey I noticed I really like preparing fresh foods and cooking for my family and myself. I started to have fun; “diets” weren’t supposed to be fun! I was collecting recipes from all over the Internet and began experimenting with my cooking skills. I eventually became so confident that I started making my own recipes and preparing them when friends and family visited.

Lenny before

Lenny after

The act of preparing, creating and experimenting became a key component of my daily life. There was something about being in control that I liked. Far too long food controlled me. Now, I CONTROL FOOD. I still live to eat as I LOVE TO EAT-- but I know when to stop now. I have a cheat day each week now where I eat more in one day than old Lenny ate in two days! The only difference now is there is no guilt because I know that I will go back to my new planned out meals and will have another cheat day next week.

If you are on a similar journey, it is time you take back control and don’t let the food control you. Control over food can be fun and exciting, find your passion in food and let it bring you happiness, not stress. One thing to always remember…Food does not have control over you, unless you give it power!

Lenny Longo is now entering his fifth year of maintaining 120+LBS of weight loss. The articles written in TownTaster Magazine are his story, which will contain lessons learned with tips, advice and/or answers to questions people have asked him. Lenny has no formal training in any health field and what works for one person may not work for another. Please be sure to consult your physician, before making changes to your regimen.

15

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A one of a kind, authentic Sicilian restaurant featuring Cuisine of the Monzu

The Saucy Sicilian Binvinutu

By Gaetano Cannata of Ortygia Restaurant

(Welcome)

In the last issue you were taught how to make a classic Monzu style mushroom paté.

I hope some of you put forth the effort to try it. In Sicily and Italy this dish falls into the appetizer category which is otherwise known by that familiar Italian term, antipasto.

There are numerous types of antipasto on the Italian peninsula, however nowhere in Italy are the antipasto more varied, numerous and celebrated as they are in Sicily and Sardinia.

In my restaurant I often get requests for antipasto platters, because they don’t see it on the menu. As far as they know it doesn’t exist in my restaurant because the “traditional” antipasto platter which usually consists of a few pieces of various types of cured meats, cheeses, and various jarred marinated vegetables is not mentioned. Although you may find this type of antipasto occasionally in Sicily and more often further north, the antipasto in Sicily are usually cooked preparations, some which are allowed to cool before serving. When I first began preparing such dishes in my restaurant the majority of my customers did not understand why I would stuff and cook a vegetable, such as a red bell pepper and served it cold. American palates are not used to such things and expect these types of items to be served hot. To accommodate my customers I will serve these types of items warm or hot with causing little to no harm to the integrity of the dish.

There are however, some dishes that would be completely ruined if I attempted to reheat them. I’d like to tell you about one of them.

Growing up, eating in my home was always an incredible experience for me. Never a dull culinary moment and I mean never.

I would get excited every evening thinking about what wonderful delights awaited me. There would of course be pasta and a main course, but my absolute favorite was the array of no less than 4 types of vegetable dishes almost every evening prepared in ways that were mind boggling.

One of my favorites back then and still today was cold marinated zucchini called Zucchini Sott' Oglio or Zucchini Agro Dolce.

It is similar to the pate in the last issue in its surprisingly simple. It is essential, especially in simple dishes such as this one, that the ingredients are as fresh as possible.

Zucchini Agro Dolce 3 average size zucchini 1 cup of safflower or sunflower oil for frying 5 fat cloves of garlic cut into thin slices length wise 1 large bunch of fresh basil (fresh mint may also be used) Good quality red wine vinegar (not balsamic) Sea salt and freshly ground pepper Wash and dry the zucchini. Cut on the bias into thin slices about 1/8 of an inch. Heat ½ the oil in a large frying pan on medium heat. When the oil is hot start adding the zucchini slices in a single layer. Do not overlap. Sprinkle on salt and pepper to taste. When brown on one side (this should take about 3 minutes) flip pieces over and toss in a few garlic slices. Cook zucchini until golden. If garlic starts to brown, remove it from the pan and set aside or it will become bitter. Put cooked zucchini in a small Pyrex or glass dish. The dish needs to be small enough so that about six to eight slices form a single layer. Add next batch of zucchini to the pan and repeat the same process. Use reserved oil if needed. While

the next batch zucchini are cooking, add enough of the cooked zucchini to the dish to form a single layer. Scatter around the pieces of the cooked garlic. Then evenly distribute one tablespoon of the red wine vinegar and a few torn basil leaves. Continue the process in layers until all zucchini are cooked. Refrigerate a few hours or overnight. At least one hour before serving, remove from fridge and invert onto a serving platter. It should come out in a beautiful multilayered mold. Garnish with sprigs of basil or fresh thyme. It can be served as a part of an antipasto platter or on its own with some fresh crusty Italian bread. A light red, such as a Sangiovese, would work with this, as would a dry, fruity, crisp Trebbiano d’Abbruzzo.

However wine suggestions are just those… suggestions. Drink what you like.

Ciao 17

REVIEWED

BY

Restaurant Name Jager Tavern & Grill Day Visited 06-15-13 Time Visited 18:00 What did you order?

1100 North Tuttle Ave Sarasota, Florida 34237 Ph: (941) 592-1954 www.jager-tavern.com

A special thanks to this issue's TownTaster

MICHELLE BOBIKEVICH

for giving her stamp of approval to Jager Tavern & Grill

About our TownTaster:

Age: 50's Hometown: Anchorage, AK Current City : Bradenton Hobbies: Kayaking, running, movies, beach, reading Favorite Food: Chicken wings, Mexican, tia, steaks, burgers and veggies

YOU

Interesting menu items

Jager burger infused with secret Jager sauce marinated for 24 hrs. chicken berry strips with blueberry sauce

JaGer overTime plaTTer.

Would you go back? Yes, Yes, Yes.

Kid Friendly Yes No Easy to Find? Yes No Reservations needed? Yes

Would you recommend?

Highly No

Please describe: Lighting

perfect - dim

Ambiance & Décor

Upscale sports bar Atmosphere

Comments

The Staff was polite and Casey our server was wonderful. They had no idea i was the TownTaster. i told them after we received our food order. They were pleased we were there. i noticed everyone received the same great service as our group.

Fun & Uplifting Service (Quality/ Speed)

Wonderful/fast

Favorite Aspect of the restaurant

The food came out fast. The weight staff was more than happy to meet our special needs.

The best aspect is that it is open. i think they need to advertise more to get the word out. We were the only people for about two hours. it is a great place to meet with friends not to loud to where we can’t enjoy a good conversation. i know we are all planning to go back together and with others Favorite Menu Item Jager burger – ten ounces

of angus beef, grilled vidalia onions, lettuce and tomato on a home baked roll.

APPROVED

Each issue, 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

18

Cooking Camp for Kids and Teens

Beat the dog-days of summer with these fun and exciting classes for kids! Start making your plans for summer with Aprons Cooking School camps for kids and teens. These 3 day camps have a lot to offer including lots of food and lots of fun! Stop by the Apron's Event Planning desk and sign up now to reserve your child's place in these exciting classes

Kids 3-Day Camp (ages 8-12) • 11 AM Choose from the following dates: July 8, 9, 10 or July 11, 12, 13 or July 15, 16, 17 or July 18, 19, 20 Teens 3-Day Camp (ages 13-18) • 4 PM Choose from the following dates: July 8, 9, 10 or July 11, 12, 13 or July 15, 16, 17 or July 18, 19, 20 Sign up online at www.publix.com/cookingschools or for more information call Aprons Event Planning

2874 University Pkwy., Sarasota, FL 34243

941.358.7781

SUMMER FUN = JUICY BURGERS

Summer is here and there is no other symbol of summer that is more perfect than a nice hot juicy burger! No matter how you stack it - the smell of a grill heating up and the sizzle of the burger touching down IS the classic symbol of summer. That is why we are thrilled to have a new restaurant here in Bradenton that knows exactly how to make a burger right!

Full Belly Stuffed Burgers is a family run business whose goal is to make your taste buds happy and your belly satisfied and full. They make gourmet hamburgers stuffed to the max with incredible ingredients that explode in your mouth with every bite. Plenty to choose from... Simple stuffed bleu cheese & bacon burgers to specialty burgers like the Jamaican and the Italian, which will change the way you think of these juicy delights. And if you really trust us - try the Matty Matt - a original combination of sweet maple bacon and all natural peanut butter... Talk about a culinary adventure!

Stop by and visit while on your summer travels...

"It Ain't a Party Until Someone Has a Full Belly!"

Mon - Thu: 11:00 am - 9:00 pm Fri - Sat: 11:00 am - 10:00 pm

Happy Hour Specials 4:00 pm -7pm Daily

“It Ain’t a Party Until Someone Has a Full Belly!”

8742 State Rd 70 E • Bradenton, FL 34202 • (941) 727-7111

www.FullBellyStuffedBurgers.com • Facebook.com/FullBellyMeats

DINE IN OR CARRY OUT 19

Authentic Italian Cuisine FRESH & MADE TO ORDER Three Generations of Excellence

• Pizza • Pastas • Appetizers • Desserts • Soups/ Salads • Sandwiches • Lunch Specials

CATERING AVAILABLE: Weddings Private Parties Birthday Parties

“A place where friends meet friends!”

Three Locations: Bradenton • Lakewood Ranch • Parrish 8 34 8 US 30 1 N., Parrish • 941.723.1111 www.ferrarositaliangrille.com

20

REVIEWED

2085 Siesta Dr Sarasota, FL 34239 (941) 951-9200 www.andreassarasota.com

A special thanks to this issue's TownTasters for giving their stamp of approval to Andrea's

About our TownTasters:

Age: 30-35 Current City: Sarasota Favorite Food: Italian cuisine, fish, anything local and fresh Hobbies: Food, cooking, baking, reading

BY

YOU

Restaurant Name Andrea’s Day Visited May 21, 2013

Favorite Menu Item Slow Roasted Pork Shank

What did you order?

Authentic Italian Buonafide Food Extra Virgin Olive Oil – Amazing! Stuffed Potatoes were out of this world.

May Wine Dinner – fabulous menu developed

by Andrea. Eggplant Caponata, Fresh Goat Cheese “Teverina extra virgin olive oil” Bruschetta, Tartar of Buffalo Mozzarella, Zucchini and Heirloom Tomatoes, Beef Oxtail Ravioli “Au Jus”, Potatoes Stuffed with Truffle and Stilton, Slow Roasted Pork Shank, Italian Cheese Selection.

Kid Friendly Yes No Easy to Find? Yes No Reservations needed? Accepted Please describe: Lighting

Warm and inviting. A perfect atmosphere for a intimate dinner or night out with friends.

Interesting menu items

Would you go back? Absolutely.

Would you recommend (Why/why not)?

Yes, another fantastic win for local foodies to enjoy top notch cuisine at a reasonable price.

Whether a wine dinner or a casual night out – Andrea is sure to wow you with his food!

Comments

Another great reason to go check it out Andrea is offering a summer menu from now through the end of Oct. On Sunday-Thursday nights - 3 courses for only $25.

Ambiance & Atmosphere

Enter from a busy street into a peaceful atmosphere that is welcoming and charming.

Greeted by Andrea himself, we felt right at home in his dining room.

Service (Quality/ Speed)

The evening was enjoyable and full of excitement between each course. The courses came promptly as we enjoyed each dish and were paired with a selection of wine chosen specifically for the meal from Umbria, a small region Italy.

Favorite Aspect of the restaurant

The creativity of each and every dish. Each beautifully plated course came out with a special touch. Andrea’s taste for pairing the wines with the unique menu item was superb.

APPROVED

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

21

TownTaster Reader Survey What is your favorite Island Restaurant? ___________________________________________________ Tell us your story about your Foodie Island Adventure and we will pick a winner for a $50 gift certificate!_ __________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________ Tell us about you (optional) Age: _________ Occupation: ______________________________________________ Where did you pick up this month’s issue? ____________________________________ Address, Phone, Email (to contact if you win): ________________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________________________________________________________

___ Yes, please add me to your mailing list and send each issue right to my home for FREE! 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. Winner chosen at random from entries received. No purchase necessary to enter.

Now Open! 8215 Tourist Center Dr. • Bradenton • 359-1234 (Just off Cooper Creek Boulevard, next to World Of Beers)

e h T n O s r o Va p

AVENUE

Electronic Cigarettes & E-Liquids

941-792-6074

Smokers: Are You Ready For A Change?

Our E-Liquids are made in the USA TWO LOCATIONS 5706 Manatee Ave. W. Bradenton, FL 34209

NEW

5306 Holmes Blvd. #800 Holmes Beach, FL 34217

www.vaporsontheavenue.com

9 41-79 2- 6 074 22

NOW OPEN: 2121 Siesta Drive, Sarasota Pita’s/Gyros Fresh Salads Overstuffed Wraps And Much More...

100% Fruit Smoothies Coupon Required

Coupon Required

Coupon Required

Upgrade To A

Buy 1 Pita Get 2nd

Any 2 Pitas

Combo Meal

FREE 50% off

With purchase of pita, salad or wrap. Reg. $1.95

Not valid with any other offer One coupon per customer, per visit.

EXPIRES 08/31/13

With purchase of Pita, & 2 drinks at Reg. price.

9

$ 99

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Reg. $11.99 You Save $2.00

Excludes mega pitas.

Not valid with any other offer One coupon per customer, per visit.

Not valid with any other offer One coupon per customer, per visit.

EXPIRES 08/31/13

EXPIRES 08/31/13

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Subscribe now to the area's fastest growing source for food news. www.towntaster.com 941-548-1908

Island Shopping Center 5406 Marina Dr. Holmes Beach 941-778-5092 www.thefeastrestaurant.com Gift Certificates Dinner Reservations Suggested OPEN 7 DAYS 11:30 AM - 9 PM

DINE IN - CARRY OUT - CATERING "There is no love sincerer than the love of food"- G.B. Shaw

A casual fine dining restaurant located in the city of Holmes Beach on Anna Maria Island, Florida.

We specialize in fresh locally harvested seafood, steaks, salads, innovative pastas, and much more.

We offer hand tossed gourmet pizza with a variety of fresh ingredients.

NEW BEER & WINE SELECTION WITH 80 DIFFERENT WINES! LARGEST SELECTION OF CRAFT & MICRO BREWED BEER ON THE ISLAND