November/December 2013

TownTaster M

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Nov/Dec 2013

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Volume 3 • Issue 1

Holiday Goodies Page 6

THE “MUSCADINE GRAPE”…

100% AMERICAN! Page 31

The M iracle B erry at M ixon ' s Page 8

Eat Fresh.

Eat Local. w w w.To w nTa s t e r. c o m

SUBSCRIBE TODAY - FREE!

Page 19

Ho liday Cheer From the Editor

Nov/Dec 2013 Volume 3, Issue 1 Publisher

PCI Publishing, LLC

Editor

Valerie Longo 941-932-8884

Web Design

Syd Krawczyk Concept Digital Media

Social Media

If there is one thing I attribute to the Holiday Cheer that is all around – it would Valerie Longo be delicious food! It is a time for gathering with loved ones, reflecting on the year and counting our blessings.

It is also a time to indulge in the finest flavors of the season. Is your weakness the rich savory flavors of Thanksgiving or the sweet scent of Christmas cookies? Or maybe you relish in the bittersweet memories of another passing year while winding down with the family for a New Year Feast. Regardless of your traditions, we want to entice the foodie in you to slow down, look around and embrace the flavors that are all around you. The hustle and bustle will soon pass – but make sure you have stopped to enjoy another year to celebrate your blessings.

Lenny Longo

Graphic Design Mara Stork

Contributing Authors Patti B. The Green Winer Nadia Perez The Saucy Sicilian Amanda Wansiewicz

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.

Subscriptions are FREE. To continue receiving Town Taster on a regular basis, visit our website:

TownTaster.com facebook.com/TownTaster

We have been very busy around here preparing this issue of TownTaster. I have to say it has been our most fun issue so far as we celebrate the beginning of our 3rd year of publishing TownTaster.

We hope you have enjoyed the ride as much as we have! We are growing by leaps and bounds adding fabulous talent to our staff of writers, reaching out to more community groups to spread the good food news, and connecting more people than ever to new and exciting cuisine in our area. Every day we hear of new readers who just moved into town who have begun exploring our local food scene and are using TownTaster to lead the way. We are so glad you found us!

A special thank you to all who came together to help make this issue a success. Our Foodie Gift Guide is a highlight of all those hard working businesses that have been preparing for months to bring you amazing gift options for your favorite foodie. As you read on you will be immersed in the holiday fun and we hope to open your eyes to some new and unique gift ideas this season. Think outside of the box when planning your parties and buying gifts.

Think local by purchasing local gift cards, gift baskets, specialty pies & chocolates. The receiver will thank you and so will our local economy. Remember, when you support local businesses you are making it possible for them to have a great season for their families too! So get out there, think local, think unique and don’t forget to stop for a bite to eat at a local restaurant near you.

From our family to yours, Happy Holidays and many blessings at the start of a New Year!

For the LOVE of FOOD!

2

tale! a n o N u B

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

ary

~ Carmen

C

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

Carmen & Kay Rizzo, Owners

ASK ABOUT OUR WEEKLY SPECIALS Dishes are fresh & made to order Desserts straight from Italy Full Liquor Martini Bar “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 Tues - Wed: 5:00 pm - 10:00 pm Thu - Fri: 11:00 am - 10:00 pm Sat - Sun: 5:00 pm - 10:00 pm

Wine Dinner Nov 11th New Year's Eve Dinner Now Accepting Reservations Call for more details

515 27th St E. Bradenton, FL 34208

(941) 745-1540 carmensitaliancafe.com

Winner: First Place Reader's Choice 2012-13 New Restaurant

ON THE COVER Cherry Pie from Pastries by Design

IN THIS ISSUE Holiday Goodies for your Foodie........................ 6 The Miracle Berry Debuts at Mixon Fruit Farms...... 8

Reviewed by You Casa-Di-Pizza........................ 10 Se単or Siesta........................... 14 Pine Avenue, AMI.................. 13 Holiday Parties....................... 16 Eat Fresh. Eat Local............... 19 Village of The Arts................. 23 The Saucy Sicilian Sicilia in Tavola....................... 24 Love to Eat & Eat to Live....... 27 The Green Winer The Muscadine Grape........... 31 4

NOVEMBER /DECEMBER TASTE-FUL EVENTS November 7

November 17

Authentic four course French dinner. $49 per person, seating is limited by reservation only. 127 Bridge St., Bradenton Beach. 941-778-1011. www.Bistrotfl.com

8:15 am – 10:30 am at St Joseph Parish Center, 3100 26th St. W., Bradenton. $6 per person, $3 ages 5-12, under 5 free with paid adult. For more information call 941-744-5448 or email kofc5604@hotmail.com.

Island Creperie Wine Tasting

November 9

Magic Of Manatee Chorus Spaghetti Dinner Enjoy Spaghetti and meatballs and experience fourpart acappela harmonies provided by the Magic of Manatee Sweet Adeline Chorus. 4208 26th Street West, Bradenton at 5:00 pm for $8.00.

For tickets in advance, call 941-779-1416. www.magicofmanatee.com

November 11

VOM FASS Cooking Classes SOLD OUT (2014 classes coming soon!)

Join Chef Craig Chasky for his series of classes at VOM FASS in Sarasota. (941) 365-2137. info@vomfasssarasota.com

November 14

Paris Bistrot Wine Tasting

Authentic four course French dinner. $49 per person, seating is limited by reservation only. 8131 Lakewood Ranch Main Street (941) 388-0564. www.Bistrotfl.com

November 16

6th Citrus Competition at Mixon Fruit Farms

Citrus Cooking Competition Sugg Middle School, Southeast High School & MTI will have their culinary arts classes creating the best menus using citrus. Once winners are chosen, attendees can sample the delicious creations. It's lots of fun. www.mixon.com

November 17-16

Renaissance Jazz Festival

Jazz Festival to benefit Meals on Wheels PLUS. Sat 6-10 pm with dinner and drinks $60. Sun 1-6 pm $20 general admission. Tickets online or at door www.renaissanceon9th.org.

Knights of Columbus Pancake Breakfast

November 23-24

Mixon Fruit Farms Harvest Festival

Food vendors serving Sausage Burgers, Pizza, Taco Bowls, Philly Cheesesteak, Fry Bread & more. Crafts, Pony Rides, Bounce Houses, Entertainment and rides. $3 per person or 2 for $5. 14 and under FREE. Free parking. 9:00 am to 5:00 pm. www.mixon.com.

December 13-14

Gingerbread Festival

Sponsored by the Community Youth Development at Westfield Sarasota Square Mall. Admission $1 per person. Gingerbread “Iron Chef” style contests and vote for your favorite house made by local schools.

More information call CYD at 941-922-5126 or email karen@cydonline.org.

December 17-16

Carmen’s Italian Café New Year’s Eve Party

Make your reservations now to celebrate the New Year in style! 515 27th St. E., Bradenton. 941-745-1540. www.carmensitaliancafe.com

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

941.349.1792

javiersrestaurant.com Tuesday-Saturday 5-9pm

Tapas • Fresh Seafood Peruvian Specialties American Favorites Vegetarian • Gluten Free Select Wine & Beer Sunset Specials Takeout and Catering

Local, Organic and Sustainable 5

Holiday Goodies

to Give Your Foodie

By: Nadia Marie Perez

No matter how hard it is to please almost everyone else on your holiday list this year, you’ll not go wrong with any of these shops for the Foodie on your list. Whether your foodie is a chocolate lover or an olive oil connoisseur, we have a place for each of your gifting needs. So let the fun begin!

What foodie can resist delectable homemade fudge, jars of marmalades and salsas, and boxes of fresh in season fruit? There is no better place to get these and other such gourmet sundries than Mixon Fruit Farms. Season starts in November so it is the perfect time to visit and try some fresh squeezed orange or grapefruit juice and browse the shop for some excellent Florida goodies.

You’ve been invited to a party being given by a foodie and you’re stuck on what to bring. Never fear, Pastries by Design is here to meet your sweet treat needs! Featuring a full menu of specialty pies, tarts, cheesecakes and other sweets this Lakewood Ranch shop is the perfect place to get some fantastic treats to offer to your host or hostess.

Chocolate takes many forms at Sirard’s Chocolate, whether you shop in store or online, a plethora of beautifully crafted sweets awaits you. From the delicious sponge like texture of the Sarasota Seafoam candy to the beautiful 15 piece box of creams, chocolate lovers on your list will be begging for more. We suggest going into the shop and stopping for lunch at the café, open between the hours of 11 am to 2:30 pm, which features Paninis served with fruit and chocolate dipping sauce and so much more. Also available are holiday gift baskets.

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So the Foodie on your list fancies gourmet flair in their kitchen? You can’t go wrong, then, with the selection of olive oils, nut oils, vinegars, and spirits available at Sarasota’s Vom Fass. Hard pressed for time to pick and choose? Vom Fass has quality gift baskets that will make any food lover squeal with delight! Cheese lovers, Dessert lovers, Food lovers, Fruit lovers you name it, they’ve got it.

Food lovers will swoon over a set of tickets to the area's finest celebration of local cuisine. Beginning Nov 11th, tickets go on sale for the annual Forks & Corks Food & Wine Fest and they will go quick! Winemaker Events, Forks & Corks University and the memorable Grand Tasting event are a foodie's dream wrapped into three days. This event is much anticipated, so imagine a foodie's face when they open their gift and find these gems!

Take a visit to Pine Avenue on Anna Maria and you can peruse the world of olive oils and spices at The Olive Oil Outpost and The Spice Merchants. So many gourmet delights are available at these neighboring shops that are oozing with Old World charm. Your senses will be overwhelmed!

Is your foodie’s kitchen in need of some love? The Master Cabinet Maker of Palmetto is here to suit your needs.

Beautiful custom cabinets made to fit the needs of your foodie’s demands; this is the gift that truly keeps on giving.

So, stress not because with holiday shopping destinations like these you’ll be able to rest easy once you’ve gotten that special something for the foodie in your life. Here’s to making it a wonderful holiday for all!

NOW ACCEPTING HOLIDAY ORDERS Pies • Cookies • Cakes • Cupcakes

10667 Boardwalk Loop Lakewood Ranch, FL

941.907.8222

Holiday Gift Baskets Truffles, Chocolates, and Dipped Specialties Holiday Chocolates and Dessert, Pastry Platters Corporate Gifts • Office Lunch Platters Full Catering Offsite and In House Holiday/Office Parties • Delivery Available

SIRARD’S CHOCOLATE CAFÉ 5170 Clark Rd., Sarasota, FL 34233

in the Publix Shopping Center at Clark-Honore

(941) 923-2462 • www.sirardschocolate.com Monday-Saturday 9am~6pm • Cafe Menu 11:00am~2:30pm

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From Bland to Nom Nom in Just One Minute!

The Miracle Berry Debuts in Mixon Fruit Farms By: Nadia Marie Perez

Ever wished you could eat a lemon without having to cringe at the sour flavor that would surely follow? Most of us are fortunate enough to be able to perceive flavors fully and have a generally pleasing experience while eating. However, what if you’re a chemo patient and have experienced that metallic taste after eating, which seems to be a common side effect of chemotherapy? Wouldn’t you want to know about a little taste enhancing agent that would at least give you some form of pleasure while eating and keep you from experiencing malnutrition?

Enter into the spotlight synsepalum dulcificum also known as the “miracle berry”. This small fruit has been making headlines in recent years; being featured in events known as “flavor tripping” parties and it’s no wonder. First made known in the West by European explorer Chevalier des Marchais in the first half of the 18th century, it hails from West Africa where des Marchais saw the local people of the area first pick the auspicious berry right from the shrub, chewing it before eating their meals. The berry, also known as miracle fruit and miraculous berry, contains a glycoprotein molecule

called miraculin which, when eaten, binds to the tongues taste buds and causes sour foods to taste sweet.

The pretty red berry is also commonly used for diabetics as a natural sweetener and sugar substitute. Its properties make lemons taste like lemonade and its effects last for up to an hour, this berry truly lives up to its name. Just chew the fleshy part of the fruit for up to a minute and you’re ready to go! Mixon, being the local citrus expert in this area, has acquired a shrub for its unique use and will be distributing the berries to chemo patients so that they may have one before eating a meal thereby enhancing their flavor receptors so that eating can become enjoyable again. They will be available in the coming weeks at the Deli counter in the Farm’s shop. So, if you are a chemo patient or know a chemo patient in the area, make sure to visit Mixon Fruit Farms to get one of these miraculous berries and say goodbye to bland food.

Sources for Information: 1. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Synsepalum_dulcificum#Uses 2. http://www.dailygalaxy.com/my_weblog/2008/06/miracle-fruit-1.html 3. http://www.miraclefruitman.com/chemotherapy-patients.html

FRESH Fast Food Without The Guilt!

The Best Tasting Flame-Broiled Chicken And Ribs 5917 Manatee Ave W., #201

794-5222

Open 7 Days 11am-9pm

gas • tro • pub 3005 University Parkway

941-355-1218 www.revelrypubandgrill.com

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4015 1st Street E.

747-7972

BASIL’S

www.BasilsChicken.com

Dine In or Take Out

Master Cabinet Maker, inc.

The Kitchen is the heart of the home. It is a place where we spend most of our time, where family and friends gather together, shouldn’t you enjoy this time in your dream kitchen? If you have ever thought about upgrading your kitchen or other cabinets, we thought we would shed some light on the ins and outs of what to expect. There is a big difference between big box cabinets and quality materials that will hold up for years to come.

What most people don’t realize is that custom isn’t necessarily the most expensive.

The Master Cabinet Maker Inc. in Palmetto builds truly quality custom cabinetry to homeowner’s specifications. When working with them, the cabinets come directly from the source without going through a typical dealer and distributor. They start from scratch by creating a computer design from your kitchen’s measurements. Then a floor plan is created and a 3-D rendition of your project is made to your approval. This lets you walk through your newly created kitchen (or any room of your home) before it

is even built and installed. You won’t get that at a big retailer!

Owner and creator, Tom Schipper is a 3rd generation woodworker and his wife Christie provides quality personalized service. The passion for quality is apparent through the smile you see when he completes his work and his hard work ethic that shines through in every job.

Many don’t take the time to look at the many differences between custom cabinets and cabinets sold by other big retailers. With Tom & Christie you are not dealing with a seller or 3rd party installers who don’t share the same passion for your kitchen that you do.

Committed to quality, they offer a good old-fashioned customer service. They are a true testament that “custom” doesn’t have to mean “out of your price range” and they assure that it is done in a short time frame. Done on time, every time.

They are ready to work “outside the box” and fit your plans.

What does “3 ply” really mean?

When box cabinet companies claim that their cabinets are made

from 3 ply (plywood), what that really means is they are using 3 ply material. A maple 3 ply, is really particle board in the center with a thin sheet of maple veneer on each side. Master Cabinet Maker uses a 11 ply hardwood as material. There is no comparison!

While they specialize in kitchen cabinets they also do kitchen bars, bathroom vanities, home offices, home theaters, wall units, entertainment centers, closets, laundry cabinets and special cabinets for mobile homes applications. Maybe outdoor kitchen cabinets are on your wish list? They can design those as well made of polymer or exterior grade plywood. One thing is for sure, their materials are superior– no particle board here!

You are reading TownTaster because you LOVE food – so why not LOVE the kitchen you are cooking in! When quality matters contact them and you can also feel proud that you are supporting a local business.

The Master Cabinet Maker. Fully Insured. Residential and Commercial. References Available.

Mobile Home Kitchen

Mid Range Kitchen

High End Gourmet

Call their workshop to set an appointment.

(941) 723-0278 www.themastercabinetmaker.com 2200 US Highway 301 N, Unit 4, Palmetto, FL9

REVIEWED

BY

YOU

8193 Tourist Center Dr. Sarasota, FL (941) 359-2300

A special thanks to this issue's TownTasters

Patti & Lou B

for giving their stamp of approval to Casa-Di-Pizza

About our TownTasters:

Age: Mid 70’s Hometown: Fairfield, Conn.

Current City: Bradenton, FL Hobbies: Golf, Walking, Beach time Favorite Food: Italian

ED

APPROV

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

10

4658 E. State Rd. 64 Bradenton, FL

8193 Tourist Center Dr. Sarasota, FL

2 GREAT LOCATIONS

(941) 748-0700

(941) 359-2300

Off University by I-75 (Next to Courtyard by Marriott)

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in 1 953.

In the Braden River Plaza

WEDDINGS | SPECIAL OCCASIONS CUPCAKES & PASTRIES

e s ta

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EVERY MONDAY & WEDNESDAY

LARGE PIZZA With cheese and one item

ONLY $10.99

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TAKE 10% OFF ALL WING ORDERS

Open: 11am 7 days a week Eat In • Take Out • Delivery • Catering

10667 Boardwalk Loop Lakewood Ranch, FL

941.907.8222

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7t h AnnuAl

Forks&Corks2014 Winemaker Events | January 24th & 25th Forks & Corks University | January 25th The Grand Tasting | January 26th

Tickets available for purchase on Monday November 11th - sold only through our website

www.freshoriginals/forksandcorks 2014 EvENT SpoNSorS

FHI

MEdia parTNEr

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Unique shops, great food and eclectic art… no shoes required!

The Greenest Little Mainstreet in America hit the spot. After you have had your fill – stroll around, soak up the relaxed atmosphere and visit the shops. Unique stores such as the Flip Flop Candy Shop, Olive Oil Outpost and The Spice Merchants are the perfect souvenir to bring home and savor.

UPCOMING EVENTS:

F

rom it's award winning, energy efficient, storm strong buildings to its native landscapes, organic edible garden boxes and managed bee colony, Pine Avenue, Anna Maria, is a cutting edge laboratory for the global movement towards local, sustainable economies and environments. A destination in itself, Pine Avenue is a unique and charming area. The two lane street is lined with one of a kind shops & boutiques and a foodie’s favorite local restaurants that are highly rated and much talked about.

If you have not ventured out to this little piece of paradise – we wanted to give you a taste of what you are missing.

Cruise along the street and visit authentic Italian deli & eatery, Vinny & Cheryl’s or get a sweet treat at the newest addition Stir It Up Yogurt Shack! If it is tacos you are craving – have no fear – the Poppo’s Taco at Poppo’s Taqueria will

December 13th: City of Anna Maria Holiday Walk Stroll down Pine Avenue and look for last minute gifts while listening to Christmas Carols from 5:30-8:30.

December 14th: Roser Community Church Bethlehem Walk beginning at 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria from 6:30pm-9:30pm

Little Italy in the heart of Anna Maria Gourmet Takeout Bakery & Pizza Italian Gourmet Foods Daily Lunch and Dinner Specials Fresh Baked Artesian Italian Breads Pastries & Cookies Wood Burning Brick Oven Pizza Off-Promises Catering for All Occasions Store Made Fresh Pasta & Ravioli Made Daily Fresh Mozzarella, Italian Cheeses Store Made Fresh Italian Sausages & Meats

www.executivechef-servicesolutions.com 941.896.9754 • 314 Pine Avenue, Anna Maria

Premium Frozen Yogurt & Smoothies

212C Pine Ave Anna Maria, FL

Open 11am-9pm Closed Tuesday

(941) 254-7941

www.poppostacos.com

7 days a week 11:00 am - 10:00 pm www.stiritupyogurtshack.com 308 Pine Ave, Anna Maria, FL 34216

(941) 251-4905 13

REVIEWED

BY

YOU

5110 Ocean Blvd.

Siesta Key, FL Ph: (941) 349-0818 www.seniorsiesta.com

A special thanks to this issue's TownTaster

Amanda Wansiewicz for giving her stamp of approval to Señor Siesta

About our TownTaster:

Age: Mid 36 Hometown: Brewster, MA Current City: Sarasota, FL Hobbies: Running, hiking, kayaking, reading and taking pictures of everything I’m eating and posting it to Facebook – (yes, I’m one of those people) Favorite Food: Pasta with fresh basil pesto.

Bacon – on everything. Blue cheese stuffed olives. Nutella on Ritz crackers. (don’t judge me until you’ve tried it)

ED APPROV

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

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TOP RATED BY TRIP ADVISOR

Renaissance 9

Your one-stop shop for holiday shopping, events and catering!

ON

TH

• Holiday Meals To-Go November 1-January 1

Order complete meals perfect for any holiday gathering, starting at just $12.95 per person.

• Grandma’s Goodies Delicious gifts!

Our famous cookies and chocolate bark make great client gifts! Available in assortments and various quantities.

Your Passport to Latin Cuisine

• Sugar Plum Shoppes Holiday Gift Market

December 5, 4-8pm • December 6, 9am-3pm Don’t miss our annual holiday gift market featuring fabulous local merchants, great food, door prizes and more. FREE ADMISSION!

Savor the Latin flavors of our authentic “made from scratch” drinks and entrees from Spain to throughout the Americas in a small friendly atmosphere

• Book your holiday event with us!

Featuring world-class chefs!

Save stress by having your next event catered by one of our award-winning chefs, David Meador or Joe Stoddard, our “Renaissance Men.”

A PA 1 FREE NTTREE E W ITH his ad w ith t

A Program of Meals on Wheels PLUS of Manatee 1816 9th Street West Bradenton, FL 34205 941-749-0100 Connect with us online at: renaissanceon9th.org

Indoor /Outdoor seating Senor Siesta Restaurant 5110 Ocean Boulevard (Siesta Key Village Plaza) 941- 349-0818 • www.senorsiesta.com

Authentic Italian Cuisine FRESH & MADE TO ORDER • Pizza • Pastas • Appetizers • Desserts • Soups/ Salads • Sandwiches • Lunch Specials

Three Generations of Excellence

N D LY !

F A M I LY F R I E

Get Ready For The Holidays…

$ $ $

Conno

y r & G abb

$ GIFT CARD

$

GIFT CARD

Thank you Parrish for 4 great years!

$ $ $

Catering, Gift Cards, Holiday Parties “A place where friends meet friends!” www.ferrarositaliangrille.com 8348 US 30 1 N. 817 Tamiami Trail 1837 LWR Blvd.

Parrish Bradenton Lakwood Ranch

723-1111

932-8219

747-1331

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Holiday Parties Alas, the time is here! Whether you are sitting back and relishing in the thought of the delightful holiday meals that await you or are busy buzzing around making party plans – we have something for YOU. We all fall into one of these categories (or perhaps both) and we can’t wait to get our hands on those seasonal drink and dishes at our favorite local restaurant.

You probably can’t believe that the holidays are here already and wonder how in the world you are going to pull off your annual holiday get together… Well, here is a treat for you all. We have talked with some of the area’s finest chefs and found out that they are willing and able to help you pull off that PERFECT party in your home without spending hours in the kitchen.

Let them do the work and you can relax and enjoy!

These local chefs are thrilled about the holidays too and are ready to cater a spectacular spread for your event.

If it is an Italian feast you have in mind – look to family owned and operated Ferraro’s Italian Grill. While the LoGrande family are well known for their fabulous pizzas around town, their signature dishes of Eggplant Rollatini, Chicken Parmigiana, Lasagna and Shrimp Fra Diavolo come together to make an ideal spread for your party.

Call Frank for a full list of dishes available at 941-723-1111.

Want to spice things up with some unique “Monzu” style dishes, Chef Gaetano at Ortygia is the one to call to help in your planning. His dishes are truly one of a kind with a Sicilian-French hybrid cooking style. He will inspire you to think outside the box when planning a menu to excite your guests and will not disappoint. Give Chef Gaetano a call at 941-741-8646, he will be happy to help you.

A name that says it all - The Feast Restaurant is prepared to make your feast a success. There is no event too small and their ingredients are all purchased from local sources to ensure the highest quality meals. Crab cakes, shrimp, oysters, wings or meatballs along with cheese, fruit and vegetable platters are a party planner dream come true. Fascinate even the pickiest of guests with a spread to fit all needs. Call Chef Chris at 941-778-5092.

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From hosting small groups of friends and intimate family gatherings to larger office holiday parties and extravaganzas, we have our top picks for event locations that will “WOW” your guests.

Picture your group in this intimate setting… a restaurant that is transformed into your home when you go to visit.

You will feel this instantly when you enter Carmen’s Italian Café in Bradenton. Treated like one of their own – you will feel as if you just walked into an Italian village and were served a meal prepared from grandma’s own cookbook. Your group simply won’t be able to resist the special holiday martini’s that are available to help you celebrate! Ready to take your reservation, please call 941-745-1540.

The BeachHouse, Sandbar & Mar Vista out on Anna Maria are ideal settings to enjoy the beautiful Florida weather and impress your out of town guests. Sit with your toes in the sand, end the day after a peaceful afternoon walk on the beach

or plan something big. Their catering and event staff is available to help you organize the perfect visit no matter how big your group. Call them today at 941-779-2222.

Are you thinking outside the box yet? Well you should – make your party memorable and unique with specialized touches that will be sure to be talked about for a while.

How about High Tea in a 1920’s cottage? You will be taken away by the charm and eloquence your surroundings when visiting Charisma Café Tea House. Perfect for your party – but be sure to call for reservations. Chef & owner Kim will even be happy to discuss your catering needs of f-site when you call 941-748-8203.

No matter where you choose to host your holiday get together – make sure you leave plenty of time to plan. Call now to reserve the day and time for your group or be sure you can place your catering order with plenty of time to plan.

Gather your group and get ready to explore….

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18

Eat Fresh.

Eat Local.

19

Y

ou hear this phrase all the time and we all try to support local businesses, but we know sometimes you just don’t know where to go or what is in season. So here we are, a new “season” is upon us and the local fields are bountiful with fresh fruits, veggies, herbs and honey. We have started this section in hopes to make it a little easier for you to plan your next grocery outing. It doesn’t take much extra time to swing by your local farm market or pay some more attention to the products on the shelf and ensure your food is the freshest possible. Think about it – would you rather have produce that was picked this morning, or picked before being ripe last week and shipped across the country? We hope you try something new and stop by to say hello to your local farm owner and neighbor!

This section is sure to grow as we dig deeper this season, and we welcome your feedback for your favorite local spot!

What Is Available?

Dakin Dairy Find your favorite Dakin milks, creams, eggnogs, orange juice & more. Products are now used locally over 150 restaurants.

Hunsader Farms Homegrown & locally grown produce.

Nov: Homegrown Tomatoes, Eggplant and more.

Dec: Homegrown Beans, Peas, Strawberries ready mid-December and more.

Call their hotline for additional produce availability: 941-331-1212 Island Fresh Market Local fresh fish, produce from local farms, gourmet prepared foods from local vendors Mixon Fruit Farms Homegrown citrus, juices, marmalades, wines and honey.

O’Brien Family Farms Homegrown & locally grown produce.

Local Honey, sweet bell peppers, cucumbers, tomatoes, eggplant, lettuces, much more!

Strawberries available mid-November and more.

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

H u n s a d e r Fa r m s Homegrown

Fruits & Vegetables Available Daily

NO

V E O PE MB N ER 1 ST

Come See Our Live Bee Observatory

U-pick Hotline: 941-331-1212 Daily Updates for current picking

TOMATOES NOW AVAILABLE STRAWBERRIES WILL BE READY MID-DEC 5500 CR 675, Bradenton, FL 34211 www.hunsaderfarms.com

Farm Market: 941-322-2168 Birthday Parties • Playground • Petting Zoo

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Mon - Thu: 11:00 am - 9:00 pm Fri - Sat: 11:00 am - 10:00 pm Sun 12-8

Authentic & Traditional French Cuisine

Great Craft Beer Selection

Breakfast-Lunch

Monday thru Friday ~ 11:30 to 2:00 Saturday-Sunday ~ 8:30 to 2:00

Dinner

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If it’s not Amazing, it’s not on the Menu

#1 on Trip Advisor for Bradenton, Arts & Eats has made a name for itself with its casual elegance, diverse menu, impeccably prepared foods, and live music by local musicians. Open Mic every Wednesday night. Arts & Eats isn’t just a restaurant, it’s an experience.

Village of the Arts • 1114 12th Street West, Bradenton FL 34205

941.201.6647 • www.artsandeatsfl.com • Tues-Sat 12-8pm

Village of the Arts is a charming commnity of hard working artists located in the vibrant heart of Bradenton.

Amidst the galleries, studios and specialty shops – a foodie’s delight awaits. Visit any one of the charming restaurants to experience local flavors, pure passion and downright amazing food! When you walk into one of the stylish restored 1920’s & 30’s cottages, you will immediately be welcomed in as family and begin a culinary adventure you will not forget.

Art Walks Each month festivities transform the village into an artful hotspot. For more information visit www.villageofthearts.com NOVEMBER “Festival of the Skeletons” Nov 1st: 6-9:30pm & Nov 2nd: 11am-4pm DECEMBER “An Olde Fashioned Village Christmas” Dec 6th: 6-9:30pm & Dec 7th: 11am-4pm

Charisma Café Tea House

Traditional English High Teas Enjoy your special occasions in our 1920’s cottage setting, at Charisma Cafe Tea House…specializing in: • Group luncheons • Traditional high teas • Little princess tea parties • Bridal and baby showers • Anniversarys & Birthdays • Personalized catering • Private dinner occasions • Networking gatherings

1004 10th Ave W, Bradenton, FL 34205

Book your holiday party now! Call for reservations!

941-748-8203 • www.charismacafeteahouse.com 23

The Saucy Sicilian

By Gaetano Cannata of Ortygia Restaurant

Binvinutu

(Welcome)

After returning from leading an incredible culinary tour through southeastern Sicily, I was itching to tell everyone about all of the wonderful details of our trip. However, I realized that it would take an entire book, so I came up with a solution. In the upcoming months all of the articles will come with recipes which will be related to all of our various dining experiences we had while eating our way through Sicily. We’ll start this series with a story.

“Sicilia In Tavola” September 15, 2013 at 9:00 P.M.

In Ortygia, it was recommended by my cousin Pucci to eat at this little restaurant down the street without him, as he had some business to attend to that evening. We all took the small hike to this place that my cousin promised was as authentic as it gets for old school Sicilian cuisine.

When we walked inside, we noticed that it was even smaller than my place with the exception of a very high ceiling. After we were seated, the waitress (who owned the restaurant with her boyfriend) told us that they only served antipasti and freshly made pasta. No problem for me!

Rather than order from the menu, she told us about some specialties in the back of the house, but was worried that as Americans, we would have food issues. I told her in Italian as best as I could, “Bring it on” First as is the custom in this place, she 24

pesce neonato

brought us a basket of freshly baked Sicilian bread and a little condiment plate which consisted of the slightly bitter but unbelievably tasty black olives, roasted red peppers, and dried cherry tomatoes in olive oil along with a pitcher of house wine that I thoroughly enjoyed after I finished my aperitif, a large glass of Amaro Averna Siciliano. First came the dish my friends at the outdoor fish markets told me to have that very same morning. They’re these little fresh unborn baby fish that look like white seaweed and is translated loosely in English as neonatal. They are formed into a patty with eggs, bread crumbs, a bit of potato and grated Parmigiano cheese and fried in extra virgin olive oil. I can’t describe the taste because it doesn’t taste like anything I ever had before.

The flavor and texture

Cold fresh seafood salad

were outstanding. I couldn’t eat enough of them. These “fish” are very specific to Siracusa (Ortygia) and it’s not found in any other region of Sicily or Italy.

Fresh mussels, clams, shrimp, squid, and scampi, incredibly fresh and cooked to perfection in olive oil, garlic, parsley, and lemon. It literally melted in my mouth!

My mom who is 87 normally doesn’t eat food like that, because usually when prepared in the states, it’s too chewy for her. She was eating this incredibly well cooked and freshly prepared dish as fast and with as much gusto as the rest of us.

Then the owner asked us if we would like some pasta. I told her to bring me her favorite. She returned and told me it would be the traditional pasta dish of Siracusa. I asked her if it was pasta con le sarde

Pasts con le sarde. Magnificent!! Nothing more to say Nothing to say.

and she said the chef told her that she was not allowed to tell.

She returned 15 minutes later with house-made pasta tossed in a small amount of tomato sauce with fresh sardines, golden raisins, pine nuts, wild fennel, saffron and bread crumbs. I was right!!! To combine all of those strong and powerful ingredients into something subtle and delicate is a stroke of genius and a miracle all in one. For 25 years I’d wanted a plate of pasta like that. I’ve tried it in America, made it myself, my cousin Pucci here in Ortygia even gave it a shot, but this was the first time I finally understood why this is the traditional dish of Siracusa. It was equally enjoyed by all of us. If I would have died at that moment, my life would have been complete. No

Ricotta and grouper ravioli in a tomato scampi sauce.

regrets. I bought some preserved wild fennel to bring back home, but I don’t know if I will ever try to reproduce this at home. These incredibly fresh and tasty ingredients are difficult to impossible to find here. It would never be the same.

After that came another plate of house-made pasta, ravioli this time filled with ricotta and grouper, and tossed in a sauce of olive oil, tomato, scampi and baby shrimp. Even after the previous orgasmic pasta experience, even this dish knocked me out. The seafood is so fresh and abundant here it’s almost impossible to have a bad seafood experience.

Every piece of fish I’ve ever eaten here is caught fresh that day. Sicilians wouldn’t have it any other way! After just barely finishing it, we ordered

one gigantic fresh cannolo (cannoli) filled with sheep’s milk ricotta and dipped in pistachio.

This was also the first time I had limoncello in Italy that I actually liked. All of the limoncello here is way too weak or too sweet for me.

The one served here, was powerful, yet smooth and well balanced, like my own.

To top off an incredible evening, when I asked to meet the chef, the owners gave me an interesting smile.

They took me into the kitchen to meet him. He was very dark skinned, even for a Sicilian. When I asked if he was Sicilian, they said no. He was from, get this, Sri Lanka. He started as a dishwasher and watched the chef very carefully and learned from him. Now he is the head chef and the owner told me in Italian “And can you believe he makes the best pasta con le sarde on the island?” I told them I was a believer. Before I left they gave me one of their hand painted plates with the name of their restaurant on it, “Sicilia In Tavola” to hang in my restaurant. I completed that exquisite dining experience with 2 glasses of grappa at the Piazza Duomo, went to bed contemplating my good fortune and how one magnificent dining experience can transform your life. I slept well feeling satiated and complete.

Ciao, Gaetano

The only great limoncello I had the pleasure of drinking in Italy 25

Love to Eat & Eat to Live QUALITY OVER QUANTITY

By Lenny Longo

So you are probably thinking, WHY am I reading this blog about eating right and being healthy in the middle of the holiday season? Well, keep reading and I am sure you will not be discouraged. I thought I would deviate a little this issue.

Instead of giving you good advice about loving food and being healthy, doing it based on my past experiences, I thought I would offer a little encouragement. Hey, we all need that sometime don’t we?

The holidays are here and your schedule is full of office parties, family gatherings, festivals and events that surround you with all the guilty pleasures you crave.

What do you do? Do you hide at home and avoid all of the festivities or do you take it as an excuse to over indulge and undo all that hard work you have put in so far this year? There are two very different extremes here and I am going to tell you it IS possible to have the best of both worlds. For me, I use to relate walking into a party with tables full of my favorite foods to being an addict walking into a party where “not so legal things” were present… You get the point. You must surround yourself with positive things and motivation to keep you going right? True, but one BIG hurdle that you must overcome is seeing all of those platters and decadent

cakes and knowing you COULD eat it all--even though you shouldn’t. After a while, you realize, there is always going to be another party or event and it is not necessary to eat as if it is your last meal. This took a year or two to figure out for me so don’t be so hard on yourself!

Now, during the holidays I do not deprive myself of the gatherings that will inevitably have food, but rather, I choose wisely the BEST things available on the table that I will give me the most enjoyment. Why eat empty calories just to eat? I would rather choose certain items and walk away satisfied that I REALLY enjoyed it!

Do I dream about that savory bowl of stuffing and drizzling hot homemade gravy over that perfect pile of whipped mashed potatoes (sorry for the imagery)?

YES, not to mention the pumpkin pie that comes later (apple anyone?)! And when it comes time to sit down at the table, I will enjoy each bite, however I will probably not pick up a plate full of rolls that comes around. Yes they are good, but not as good as that stuffing! Choose wisely and only eat what you crave the most and realize there will be more at the next party, holiday or gather in a week or two. You do not need to eat everything on the table because it’s not diet day. It’s just another cheat day and you can manage it!

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It’s Not a Diet, it’s Math What I am trying to say is that I don’t recommend punishing yourself, but rather overcoming the mental challenge that comes with food decisions. We make those choices everyday – what to eat and how much to eat. Take that same principle and apply it to your comfort foods. Quality over quantity, that’s what they say. It gets easier with time and practice of course, but when January rolls around I am patting myself on the back for only taking one step back instead of two.

Finally, always remember, if you are thinking of quitting and jumping off the health wagon for a few holiDAYS, that is fine, as long as you forgive yourself those indulgences and get back on the wagon. If you are thinking of quitting your healthy habits completely because you overate for a few days, quickly smack yourself on the cheek and then remember your “WHY”, for walking the life-long path of health-conscious, while tasty, food choices. Here is one of my favorite brownie recipes. A guilty pleasure that finds its way around my house each year. Chocolate is good for you right?

Lenny before

Lenny after

DARK CHOCOLATE FLAX BROWNIES

(rich, moist, dark chocolate brownies loaded with cocoa and good cholesterol hdl Omega 3’s!)

Ingredients: • 9 T unsweetened dark cocoa • 3 T unsweetened cocoa • 1 cup vegetable oil • 3 eggs • 2 tsp vanilla • 1 1/2 cup sugar • 1 cup flour • 1/2 tsp salt • 1/2 tsp baking powder • 1/4 cup freshly ground flax seed

Directions: 1. Preheat oven to 350 F and lightly grease an 8” square baking pan.

2. Place cocoa, oil, eggs, vanilla and sugar in mixing bowl and mix thoroughly.

3. Sift in flour, salt and baking powder and mix again.

4. Lastly grind up 1/4 cup of flax seed and mix into brownie mixture.

5. Bake approximately 25 minutes and cool on a wire rack.

6. Eat all at once or store in an airtight container.

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.

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THE “MUSCADINE GRAPE”…100% AMERICAN! Did you know that Florida and the southeastern United States are home to one of the world’s finest grapes, the… Muscadine Grape?

Did you know that the Muscadine Grape is an “American Original”? Its stock is 100% American!

Did you know that the Muscadine Grape makes “World Class Wines” including ‘Reds, Whites and Rose’?

It is the only grape that thrives and prospers in Florida’s hot and humid climate. It produces bountiful grape harvests laden with sweet and delicious grapes. At BHV, we grow seven different varieties. The colors range from gold to black and sizes from ¼ inches across to over 2 inches across. Aged over one year, the wines produced from our Muscadine grape easily competes on the world stage of fine wines!

For too long we have permitted our Muscadine Grape to remain in the shadows. With this Blog, we hope to bring it into the light!

To begin our journey into the light, we will reach back into history and to one of the earliest pages of our country. In the year 1585, Governor Ralph Lane of Roanoke Island wrote a letter to Sir Walter Raleigh in England. In the letter he wrote…”We have discovered grapes of such greatness, yet wild, as France, Spain nor Italy hath no greater”. The grape that Governor Lane was talking about was the…Muscadine Grape!

Between that long ago time and today, we have mostly forgotten our Native American grape heritage.

Most of the grapes grown and the wines produced in our country today are from grape stock from Europe.

Most of us have little or no knowledge about our fabulous Muscadine Grape.

For years, our doctors and health professionals have suggested that the antioxidants in a glass of red wine would benefit our health. Did you know, however, that the Muscadine Grape has…

• 40 times the Antioxidants of any red grape in the world!

• 6 times the Resveratrol of any red grape in the world!

• More Fiber than Oat Bran!

• The Only grape to have Ellagic Acid!

Yep, this is “Our” grape. It has thrived for millennia in our sandy soils of Florida. This is the grape that has waited patiently for us to recognize its greatness. If you’ve never enjoyed a glass of Muscadine grape wine, we strongly suggest that you enjoy one today!

Very possibly, your taste buds will rejoice with the unique taste, flavor and crispness of this fabulous Muscadine wine.

So, until next time, we hold our glass of Muscadine grape wine before us in a toast and say, we wish you all the best and happiness throughout the upcoming ‘Holiday Season’!

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.

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