September/October 2013

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Volume 2 • Issue 9

Page 9

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Love to Eat & Eat to Live It’s Not a Diet, It’s Math VOLUMETRIC MEALS Page 19

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Welcome to Fall From the Editor

Sept/Oct 2013 Volume 2, Issue 9 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 The Green Winer Lauren & Jason Heina The Saucy Sicilian Tracey McHale Tom Golen

Cover Menu Item: Bamboo Roll - JPan Restaurant 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.

Welcome to “Fall” – yes, I said it… hard to believe our Fall issue is here when we were in our sandals taking a tour of the Islands a few short Valerie Longo weeks ago. Although the seasons are changing, we know a good thing when it comes around. After an outpouring of positive feedback from our “Foodie’s Tour of the Island” we decided this concept is here to stay! Thank you to everyone who participated in our survey – we got back vivid reports of Island adventures and summertime fun indulging in an array of delightful dishes.

This time around, we have traveled out east to Lakewood Ranch to continue our fun series of local “Foodie Tours”. Winding through the enchanting streets of Lakewood Ranch was enlightening and we were elated to find so many tasty dishes coming from local culinary kitchens.

Read on, as another “Tour” is about to commence – from pizza to pitas we have a spread that will make you run for your keys to begin your own foodie adventure on the Ranch.

As you browse your dining choices, be sure to save room for some decadent desserts. There are no tricks here, only good old-fashioned treats that will make your sweet tooth dance! Have you ever had one of those days, where a sweet treat is the perfect fix? Look no further – we travel from Island to Ranch and bring you the sweetest spots around.

Last but certainly not least, we hope you are enjoying our unique line-up of articles. Whether you are a new reader or have been with us from the beginning, we have added and adjusted based on your tastes and interests. We want to thank our awesome team of contributors who dedicate their time to bringing you quality food content. The Green Winer (aka Larry) is an expert in the field (literally) of making “Green” Wines and The Three Kitcheneers can always spice up the kitchen with their recipes. Over the last few months we have been blessed to add in our Saucy Sicilian series (thanks Gaetano) and the inspiring story behind a food lover’s weight loss story in “Love to Eat & Eat to Live”. So... go on and ENJOY another fun filled, scrumptious issue that will make you hungry – that is in fact our goal!

For the LOVE of FOOD!

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2

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

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~ 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

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ON THE COVER BAMBOO ROLL - JPAN

Spicy salmon & cucumber topped with avocado

IN THIS ISSUE The Versatility and Joy of Plantains............... 7 A Foodie's Tour of Lakewood Ranch............... 9 The Saucy Sicilian Melanzane Ripiene................ 13

The Green Winer Locally Grown Grape Wines..... 14 Sweet Spots............................ 15 Love to Eat & Eat to Live Volumetric Meals................... 19 Reviewed by You Full Belly Stuffed Burger........... 18 JPAN Restaurant.................... 20 4

SEPTEMBER /OCTOBER TASTE-FUL EVENTS September 16 & 30 & October 21

October 10

Come join Chef Craig Chasky for his series of classes at VOM FASS in Sarasota featuring some of his late summer and early Fall recipes. Tickets are $40, or $35 each for two or more events or guests. Please call or stop by the store to sign up. 1469 Main Street Sarasota, FL 34236. (941) 365-2137. info@vomfasssarasota.com.

At the Riverhouse Reef and Grille, 955 Riverside Drive, Palmetto, FL from 6-8:30 pm.To purchase tickets chowdown2013.eventbrite.com and for more info email kate@freshoriginals.com.

VOM FASS Cooking Classes

September 21

5 Annual BBQ Cook Off th

Join LWR Main Street for the battle of the best BBQ. The restaurants are gearing up and preparing their special sauces and rubs. The competition for this event is getting hotter. Seven participating Main Street restaurants teams are bringing their best BBQ this year. Tasting from 6-8 pm. Join us to sample some amazing BBQ. www.lakewoodranch.com/events.

September 27 & 28

Tampa Bay Wine & Food Festival Gala - Fri 9/27 – 8-11 pm - $100 Grand Tasting – Sat 1-5 pm - $100 Bay’s finest wines and foods for Bay Area locals to taste with a Southern Charm twist. Live entertainment and Fri night auction. The Straz Center - 1010 North Macinnes Place, Tampa, FL 33602. www.tampabaywineandfood.com.

October 5

Dakin Dairy Farm Festival

10 am-5 pm – Farm Tours, Live Music & Local AgriVendors, Cow Train Rides, “Farm Fun” Play Area, Cooking Demos, Hayride, Maze, 5 M & Kids Ranch Run, Mac & Cheese Cook Off and much more!

Family fun for all ages!

ChowDown for Charity

October 12-13 & 19-20 & 26-27

Hunsader Farms Pumpkin Festival

Admission $8, Children 12 and under are free, Parking $5. Food, fun, shows, crafts, and more! Hunsader Farms, 5500 CR 675, Bradenton. www.hunsaderfarms.com

October 18-19

Empty Bowls 2013

Oct. 18 at Renaissance on 9th, Bradenton and Oct. 19 on LWR Main Street. 11am - 1pm. Enjoy a variety of delicious soups from local restaurants and take home a unique, handcrafted ceramic bowl made by local potters - all for $20. All proceeds benefit The Food Bank of Manatee. Tickets: 941-749-0100 or www.foodbankofmanatee.org.

October 19-20

7th Hungarian Festival

Celebrate Hungarian Heritage. Try Hungarian dishes, desserts and wines. Activities for all ages. Cost: $10, free for kids under 12 years. Sat 12-10 pm & Sun 12-8 pm at Sarasota County Fairgrounds.

October 26

International Beer Festival LWR

Located on Main Street from 5-9 pm. Over 100 craft/ specialty beers. Food and wine from local Lakewood Ranch restaurants will be available to purchase.

Advanced tickets: $25, at the door $35. www.LWRbeerfestival.com

OCTOBER 5 TH DAKIN DAIRY FARM FESTIVAL Register Now for the 5 M Ranch Run & Mac and Cheese Cook Off. For more information and to Register go to www.dakindairyfarms.com 5

Celebrating 5 Years Farm Tours, Birthday Parties & Corn Maze

$25

fee entresy Festival)

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Your Passport to Latin Cuisine

online for DAKIN DAIRY MAC & CHEESE Cook Off & 5 Mile Ranch & Kids Run. Join our NEWSLETTER for future Ranch Run emails!

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Farm Festival Menu

Savor the Latin flavors of our authentic “made from scratch” drinks and entrees from Spain to throughout the Americas in a small friendly atmosphere 1

2 fors w ith ri a g Sa n this a d

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

THE VERSATILY AND JOY OF PLANTAINS

By Tom Golen, Owner, Señor Siesta

make a wonderfully, near sinful, sweet desert called “tentacion” (for temptation) in several Latin American countries. Not on our current menu, I refer you to one of several terrific tentacion recipes at http://www.food.vanevalentine. com/panama-recipes-2-platano-ententacion/.

I first became familiar with plantain bananas (platanos) 30 years ago, traveling in Honduras CA. Banana cultivation was a primary source of income for several Central American economies, but it was my discovery of the platano and its wide-ranging culinary applications that most intrigued me during that visit. Like most Americans, I have enjoyed bananas as fruit since childhood.

I first learned of it's vegetable-like applications in Honduras. And while, culinarily, bananas seem to have a consumption window limited to their yellow stage of ripeness, plantains are wonderfully delicious and have differing culinary uses from their greenest green to their blackest black stages of ripening.

Also, as the plantain’s starches transform to sugar during ripening, the culinary application transforms from savory to sweet.

While both require peeling, bananas are typically eaten raw while plantains require cooking.

At their green most starchy stage, plantains make for an excellent deep fried snack--sliced thinly like potato chips or “French fried” and sprinkled with salt (and pepper).

As plantains ripen, they become excellent candidates for boiling in soups or other uses. Yes, this gluten-free fruit, is used in lieu of pasta in a lasagna-like dish called pastelone. At Señor Siesta, pastelone is one of the most frequently ordered and enjoyed entrées on the menu.

The zenith of culinary sweet joy, however, comes as the plantain skin becomes thoroughly black. At this stage, the plantain can be baked to

The diverse culinary aspects of bananas, including plantains, have been enjoyed for ages in far reaching parts of the globe from Southeast Asia to Africa, bananas were introduced to the Americas by Portuguese only a few centuries ago. Similarly, it seems to have taken a Latin influence to introduce the culinary beauty of plantains throughout the United States. We opened Señor Siesta, as your “Passport To Latin Cuisine”, so guests may conveniently enjoy the many rich flavors of Latin Cuisine, from Spain and Portugal and throughout the Americas including the versatile plantain, on Siesta Key. We welcome you to stop by to say hello or visit our website at www.senorsiesta.com Buen Provecho!!

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DINE IN OR CARRY OUT

A Foodie's Tour

Lakewood Ranch You Say When (S) Ferraros Smoothie King Full Belly

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Trattoria JPAN Pastries By Design (S) Fannie May (S) 64

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9. Casa di Pizza 10. Pitas Republic (S) - Sweet Spot

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Our Foodie Tours continue in this issue.

From the Islands to East County, we are thrilled to bring some more tasty fun on our "Foodie's Tour of Lakewood Ranch". A culinary destination within itself – Lakewood Ranch has something for everyone from sushi, pizza and burgers to smoothies, chocolate & frozen yogurt! We are so glad that you liked the “Foodie Tour” in the last issue, so get ready - the fun has just begun!

Neighborhood Hot Spots Ferr aro’s

We know we have mentioned the LoGrande family in the past – and they certainly make our list of top stops. With three Ferraro’s locations, Frank LoGrande and his two sons Sal & Anthony are committed to serving up some authentic handmade Italian dishes.

From pasta dishes to pizzas – each dish is made with fresh quality ingredients. Not to mention, their woodburning brick oven is a huge hit and from the first bite you will taste the freshness! You can dine-in or take out to enjoy flavors that will keep you coming back for more and more.

Smoothie King

If it is something fast and nutritious you are in search for, Smoothie King should be your next stop. Smoothie King® Nutritional Smoothies are custom blended with all natural ingredients including real fruit and juices and proprietary blends, making them a nutritious alternative to fast food. In addition to their smoothies, they also offer a wide selection of the most popular vitamins and proteins, sports supplements and dietary aids, low fat snacks and energy bars. Whether your goal is to lose weight, gain muscle or just eat healthy they have a solution to fit any lifestyle need.

Full Belly Stuffed Burgers

A “must-do” on our list is the area’s newest hamburger restaurant. Full Belly Stuffed Burgers is a place where the hamburger is a work of art. Stuffed to perfection with the perfect combination of cheeses, special sauces, and some ingredients you would not normally pair with a burger. Made with Black Angus beef and strategically combined with fresh ingredients – these are recipes like no other! Be sure to check out the full review of Full Belly on page 18. If you leave there hungry you surely did something wrong…

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Main Street Living Heading over to Main Street – you will find a plethora of dining options to choose from. We highlighted a few of our favorites and there is sure to be something for everyone as you are strolling along enjoying the sights and sounds of elegant Main Street. Cuisine from all around the world, Main Street is a melting pot of ethnicity and has a tasty solution for any type of craving.

Paris Bistrot

Our first stop is at Paris Bistrot for a taste of French culture. Warm and inviting you will feel like family as you sample a menu that is dripping with authenticity.

Open for breakfast, lunch & dinner – the selection of croissants, crepes & pastries are a delightful treat for breakfast & lunch. On the more savory side, their dinner items such as pork medallions, beef stews and escargot are a foodie’s dream come true! Owner Oliver Rose shares his culinary expertise not only with the Lakewood Ranch area, but also welcomes you to the Island Creperie on Bradenton Beach and ‘62 Bistrot in Sarasota.

Shopping and Dining After strolling along Main Street Lakewood Ranch, it is a short drive to the Cooper Creek area off University Parkway where you can enjoy an array of shopping destinations as well as more dining options. Eat, drink, shop & ENJOY!

Casa di Pizza

Established in Buffalo, NY in 1953, Casa di Pizza uses original recipes to make your mouth water. A destination for the sports and pizza lover – stop by for a hot slice of pizza, cold beer and watch the game in comfort. Offering daily lunch specials, Casa di Pizza is also a great spot to take a rest from shopping or take a break from work. A second location in Bradenton is also open for business and ready to serve you.

Pita’s Republic

Main Street Tr attoria

Serving up classic-style Italian cuisine in a casual fine dining atmosphere, Main Street Trattoria offers indoor and outdoor seating to make your visit perfect. Dine on their wide variety of pastas, pizzas, flatbreads and specialty entrées, such as the popular Truffle Mac & Cheese. With Happy Hour daily from 3-7 the patio is a picture perfect setting to enjoy the scenery and soak up the weather as it begins to cool off. In addition to their location on Main Street – be sure to ask them for their catering & take out menus so you can enjoy some signature Italian dishes for your next event!

JPAN

Sushi lovers get ready – this trendy upbeat haven is the perfect spot for a date night, girl’s night out or a quick lunch break. No matter the occasion, fresh quality seafood make this sushi spot a top notch choice. If you don’t believe us, take a look at the TownTaster reader review on page 20 for an insider look at an ideal dinner for two. With a second location in Sarasota, there is no reason for you to pass through the area without stopping in for a bite!

You may be familiar with the name – but have you tried everything on the menu at Pita’s? Made with fresh ingredients and infused with Mediterranean flavor, Pita’s is a great choice for a healthy and hearty meal in a pinch.

Sure to make your stop at Pita’s an enjoyable one, you will get prompt professional service from staff as they create your perfectly crafted meal!

APOLLONIA

The newest restaurant to come to the area is a hot spot for Greek & Mediterranean style cuisine. Owners of well known El Greco Café in Sarasota now bring their expertise to the area and are ready to serve you. From their premium fish & lamb dishes to perfectly crafted cocktails - they are ready to welcome you for a memorable experience!

After you have had your fill at one of these fabulous foodie destinations – make sure you jump over to our “Sweet Spots” article and find out what is around to satisfy your sweet tooth. We feature several Lakewood Ranch sweet spots on our tour. Enjoy some frozen yogurt at You Say When Yogurt, a cupcake at Pastries

by Design or a box of chocolates at Fannie May on Main Street.

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Dishing it up…

Sarasota just got a new family friendly neighborhood bar and grill. Owned and operated by Joe and Lindsey Badalamenti, the foundation of Tiki Joe’s is molded around a laid back atmosphere and is a place the whole family can come and enjoy. From soups, salads and sandwiches to burgers, wings & flatbreads – their menu has something for everyone. As football season kicks off – the games will be playing and the afternoon crowd will be able to gather and cheer in this fun-filled setting. Their passion for family runs true and you will see Joe & Lindsey’s little ones from time to time. It is truly a family affair as their daughter was the inspiration behind the name. Even at a young age – kids know a good thing when it comes around!

Stop by to say hello and help us welcome Tiki Joe’s to the neighborhood.

802 Longwood Run Blvd Sarasota, FL 34243

(941) 518-1789

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The Saucy Sicilian Binvinutu

v

(Welcome)

At this time of the year, while most of the country nears the end of summer and looks forward to the cooler breezy days of September, here in Florida we are gearing up for one more month of stifling summer heat. A good majority of “Floridians” have already left us high and dry enjoying cooler weather up north while a great many of us stick it out and do the best we can waiting patiently for things to cool down a bit.

Due to the intense, prolonged summer heat and humidity, produce is not as bountiful as it is the rest of the year. However, there is still a pretty good amount of local products to work with. Some seasonal items that do fairly well here in the summer also do well during the hot summers in Sicily. Eggplant, basil, and tomatoes are three of them.

Growing up in my Italian neighborhood in Northern New Jersey, those very three vegetables plus the oversized 5 foot long squash, cucuzzi or as the Sicilians called it “googootz”, were in every Sicilian’s backyard garden.

The Sicilians have developed a plethora of dishes based on Eggplant and tomatoes, as these are 2 vegetables close to their hearts.

I can still remember the smells coming out of my kitchen when my mother and father came inside with their freshly picked basil, eggplant, and tomatoes from the garden and got to work making this simple, flavorful dish. Although my mother used the more commonly grown Italian eggplant for this tasty stuffed vegetable dish, I prefer to use the egg sized eggplant known as “Indian eggplant”. Fresh, ripe tomatoes are essential for this dish, but if the tomatoes are anything less than flawless the dish will be ruined. I prefer to use San Marzano canned tomatoes imported from Italy.

This dish is easy to prepare and is packed with flavor.

Melanzane Ripiene (Stuffed Eggplants) 8 baby eggplants 12 large basil leaves 8 thin slices of pecorino Siciliano or any pecorino cheese 8 paper thin slices of garlic + 2 cloves of garlic ¼ cup of extra virgin olive oil + 2 tablespoons 8 very ripe tomatoes or 28 oz. can of imported San Marzano tomatoes Salt and pepper to taste *A thin slice of sopressata or salami may be inserted as well, if desired.

Discard the oil, blot the eggplants with paper towels and add to the tomatoes. Simmer for 20 minutes, turning occasionally.

Remove from heat. Arrange eggplants in a circle in a round dish like the spokes of a wheel. Pour tomatoes in the center, garnish with a large sprig of basil in the center of the tomatoes. Serve hot or at room temperature with good Italian bread on its own or as part of an antipasto.

Serve with your favorite light to medium bodied red, or a chilled good quality rosé.

Buon Appetito Ciao

Make a slit three quarters of the way lengthwise through each eggplant leaving the top and bottom attached. In each eggplant slip one (1) basil leaf, one slice of pecorino, and one sliver of garlic. Hold together with a toothpick. Place olive oil in hot pan at medium/low heat. Add salt and pepper to taste. Cook for about 20 minutes, turning frequently until skin is wrinkled and eggplant softens. Be careful not to burn the eggplant. Lower the heat and cook longer if necessary.

In another pan, add the remaining olive oil and garlic on medium heat. Cook just until the garlic is slightly golden and gives up its scent. Immediately add the tomatoes, breaking them up in the pan. Add remaining basil, salt and pepper. Cook for 20 minutes. Remove eggplant from the pan. The oil will be dark.

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LOCALLY GROWN GRAPE WINES!

We all know why “locally grown” foods are our preferred choice.

Without question, they are fresher, tastier and more wholesome. We can easily visit the farm, talk with the grower and ask any questions about ‘How’ the crops are produced.

Since they are grown in the U.S.A., we know that they are grown to the highest agricultural standards in the world. We know that the grower lives in our community, raises his family here and attends our local church. In every way our local farmer is tied to our community. The dollars that we spend with our local farmer stays in our community and help our community grow and prosper.

So, does this same logic apply to our wines? Does that local Vineyard/Winery deserve our support? The answer is……”Maybe”!

Please consider a few ‘wine facts’. First, most Vineyard/ Wineries in America today are simply…”Factories”. They are sourcing most of their inventory in the form of juices & concentrates from off-site sources. Some of these offsite sources are in the U.S.A., but many are not. Sadly, only about 30% of the Vineyard/Wineries in America today are growing all their own fresh grapes and fruits.

Fortunately, it’s easy for us to determine which local Vineyard/Winery to support. By law, every Vineyard/ Winery ‘MUST’ tell us on their wine labels “How” their wines are produced. Look for the words… ”GROWN, PRODUCED, VINTED & BOTTLED”… on their wine label.

Only local Vineyard/Wineries with those words are worth your support and patronage.

If you are lucky enough to have a local Vineyard/ Winery in your community that is doing all the right things, please pay them a visit. Just like the local farmer, ask questions, learn about their operations and share this knowledge with all your friends and family. There’s nothing better than….”Locally Grown Grape Wines”!

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.

Sweet Spots

Candies, Cupcakes and Frozen Treats, Oh My! 15

t

here is nothing more intoxicating to a foodie with a sweet tooth than walking into that invisible wall of sweetness as you enter a store selling sweets. This article, my friend, is going to indulge this sensation as we dive into the glorious world of frozen yogurt, chocolates and cakes!

We know it is hard work, but we have been scoping out the area’s sweetest spots and wanted to bring you a sample of what you might be missing out there…

You Say When Yogurt

• 1779 Lakewood Ranch Blvd, Bradenton • 8366 Market St, Lakewood Ranch With two locations in East Bradenton, You Say When Yogurt is the perfect addition to the Lakewood Ranch area.

In the past two years, the Alonso family has brought sweet frozen goodness into the neighborhood and is doing so with amazing friendliness and customer service. They have 10 alternating yogurt flavors to choose from and an array of 50 scrumptious toppings that will make you feel like a kid again. They also serve all-natural fruit smoothies that are made with real fruit. Stop by and see what fun-filled combinations you come up with!

Fannie May

• 8130 Lakewood Main Street, Lakewood Ranch • 4990 S. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota • 459 Brandon Town Center, Brandon Since 1920, the Fannie May name has been well known for their fine gourmet chocolates that are perfect for gift giving. Choose from their selection of elegant chocolates and they will be packaged in the perfect little box for a gift (or your sweet tooth)! With locations in Lakewood Ranch, Sarasota & Brandon, they are always nearby to stop by and buy a gift - or maybe pick one for you. Whoever said happiness comes in small packages was RIGHT!

Pastries By Design

• 10667 Boardwalk Loop, Bradenton We insist that you stop by one more sweet spot on Main Street for a slice of heaven – well in the shape of a cupcake that is! Pastries by Design has been serving up tasty cupcakes for the last 5 years and new owner Sandi Byers plans to continue with all of your favorite recipes and add a few new twists of her own. They specialize in

16

Main Street at Lakewood Ranch

The Landings Shopping Plaza

Westfield Brandon Shopping Mall

8130 Lakewood Main Street Lakewood Ranch, Florida 941-907-0282

4990 S Tamiami Trail Sarasota, Florida 941.554.8492

459 Brandon Town Center Brandon, Florida 813.684.4444

custom cakes and have a beautiful variety of cupcakes to choose from in their display case. A perfectly frosted cupcake is a sweet way to end an afternoon cruising Main Street or enjoying a “First Friday” event.

After you marvel over their displays in the window, come in and enjoy some instant gratification!

Stir it Up

• 308C Pine Ave, Anna Maria Island A classic summer must-do on our list is frequent stops for frozen yogurt. If you spend any time on the island (we are sure you did if you followed our last Island issue!) Stir It Up is the Anna Maria’s newest yogurt shop.

Owners John & Nicole bring you a haven of self-serve yogurt where you can add all the toppings you would like. Bask in the goodness of the island, feel the sand in your toes and finish up with a cool treat! You can’t get much better than that - Pine Avenue’s charm is the ideal home for this sweet spot.

Sirard’s Chocolate Café

• 5170 Palmer Plaza Blvd, Sarasota Yes, you read that right – Chocolate and Café in the same name. Chocolatier Carol Sirard has put her own unique twist on classic lunch dishes that will make any chocolate lover smile. Her secret ingredient – you guessed it – chocolate! Chocolate in form of cocoa rubs, chocolate covered bacon and secret sauces.

Chocolate lovers will be in for a treat when they peek at the menu. Not to mention, while you enjoy your savory meal the display case filled with decadent delights awaits you when you are through. A wide variety to choose from - chocolate dipped pretzels, marshmallows, Oreos & graham crackers as well as truffles, turtles, Sirard’s Seafoam and so much more!

We were more than happy to do the research for you. So…. go on, get out there and satisfy your sweet tooth and tell us about it. We won’t tell anyone about your chocolaty-frozen yogurt-cupcake eating adventure – we promise!

SIRARD’S CHOCOLATE CAFÉ 5170 Clark Rd.

WEDDINGS | SPECIAL OCCASIONS CUPCAKES & PASTRIES

in the Publix Shopping Center at Clark-Honore

Sarasota, FL 34233 (941) 923-2462 www.sirardschocolate.com Monday-Saturday 9am~6pm • Cafe Menu 11:00am~2:30pm

Self Serve Frozen Yogurt & Made To Order Smoothies

www.yswyogurt.com 10667 Boardwalk Loop Lakewood Ranch, FL

941.907.8222

8366 Market St. Lakewood Ranch FL 34202 941-373-6565

1779 Lakewood Ranch Blvd.

Bradenton, FL 34211 941-896-3137

17

REVIEWED

BY

YOU

8742 State Rd. 70 E Bradenton, FL 34202 (941) 727-7111 www.FullBellyStuffedBurgers.com

A special thanks to this issue's TownTasters

Tracey McHale for giving his stamp of approval to Full Belly Stuffed Burgers

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 18

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

By Lenny Longo

VOLUMETRIC MEALS I hope you have enjoyed following my blog. It has always been a passion of mine to share my knowledge of this subject with others, as it has been a long road with many lessons learned. If you are on this same journey with me, know that it is a learning process and there is always more insight and wisdom to gain.

One very important concept that I have learned is something called volumetric eating. I love to eat and typically that is a problem for someone who wants to lose weight, however, not if you choose a majority of highly volumetric foods! Volumetric foods will make you full because they are BIGGER foods! It is my natural preference to choose MORE food over less anyway, but the trick is to fill up on foods that aren’t full of calories.

This makes sense, right? It really is a simple concept.

Different foods have different energy densities (number of calories in that specific food). Fats have extremely high energy densities so they would be the ones to limit, if eating a large QUANTITY of food is important to you.

Low-density foods, such as soups, fruits & vegetables, are

foods with high water content. Those are the foods that are extremely volumetric which you could eat more of.

Recently, I was talking to a guy who told me he has been trying to lose 40 lbs. He told me that he only ate half of his hamburger last night but he was super hungry later. That is a great start but just reducing food intake probably won’t be a permanent solution if you can’t keep it up – if you are hungry you will, at times, eat more that you anticipate. The key is incorporating different foods and experimenting with volumetric menus. Changing the way you eat is important if you not only want to lose the weight, but keep it off. I love to eat – I just make different choices now! Here is a recipe for a fantastic soup that I can eat a huge bowl of for dinner and feel very satisfied for the rest of the night.

ITALIAN TURKEY SAUSAGE SOUP Ingredients: 1 lb de-cased mild turkey Italian Sausage 1.5 Tsp Crushed Red Peppers 1 Large Diced White Onion 4 slices of turkey bacon 2 Tsp of Garlic Puree 10 cups of water 5 cubes of chicken bouillon 1 cup of whole milk 2.3 lbs of sliced russet potatoes ¼ bunch of kale

Preparation: 1. Sautee de-cased mild turkey Italian sausage and crushed red pepper in pot.

Drain excess fat, refrigerate while you prepare other ingredients.

2. In the same pan, sauté bacon, onions and garlic for approximately 15 minutes or until the onions are soft.

3. Mix together the chicken bouillon and water, then add it to the onions, bacon and garlic. Cook until boiling.

4. Add potatoes and cook until soft about 15 min on 50% stove heat 5. Add milk and cook until thoroughly heated.

6. Stir in the sausage 7. Add kale just before serving.

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.

19

REVIEWED

BY

YOU

8126 Lakewood Main St. Lakewood Ranch, FL 34202 Ph: (941) 907-1290 www.jpanrestaurant.com

A special thanks to this issue's TownTasters

Jason & Lauren Heina

for giving their stamp of approval to JPAN Restaurant

About our TownTasters:

Age: Mid 30’s Hometown: Sarasota, FL and Millersville, MD Current City: Palmetto, FL Favorite Food: Absolute food lovers!

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

20

PLANNING YOUR NEXT EVENT

When planning your next event, be sure your to-do list starts with calling your local Publix Aprons Event Planner for inspiration and guidance to be sure the food is perfect. You have many other details to worry about - why worry about how many servings of this side dish you need or how many people that platter will feed. For details about how to get started, call Publix and let your planning worries fade away.

HANDS-ON COOKING CLASSES

Basics of Culinary: This six-part series is for every home chef, regardless of experience level. We will prepare full menus while focusing on techniques used by professionals, including knife skills, sauces, sautéing, roasting, grilling, and braising. Every class will include time to savor each culinary feat mastered by the students. Call or visit publix.com/aprons/schools/Sarasota/ ClassList for availability and reservations.

Sign up online at www.publix.com/cookingschools or for more information call

Aprons Event Planning 941-358-7781 • 2874 University Pkwy., Sarasota, FL 34243 Text “FREE MARGARITA” to 941-343-7393 to be on our mailing list and redeem by showing your server the text response.

www.elsombrero941.com • 723-4300 1330 US HWY Palmetto (Next to The Hall).

Open 7 days a week, 10am-9pm.

$40 for

$20

Go to www.purplegorilladeals.com to redeem this great deal and others.

21

22

Peruvian American Cuisine South American Tapas

e h T n O s r o Va p

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

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

941.349.1792

javiersrestaurant.com

AVENUE

Electronic Cigarettes & E-Liquids

941-792-6074 Smokers: Are You Ready For A Change?

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Tuesday-Saturday 5-9pm

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

100% Fruit Smoothies Coupon Required

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Revision 1 of pita, With purchase salad or wrap. Reg. $1.95

Creative Not validProofer with any1:other offer One coupon per customer, per visit.

Creative Proofer 2: EXPIRES 10/31/13

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9

$ 99

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EXPIRES 10/31/13

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

Insertion Date: 9/1 5306 Keiser-Sarsota Holmes Blvd. #800 Client: Holmes Beach, FL 34217 231-1393-TT-ingredients-7x4 Job Number: Product/Pub: Town Taster Size: 7.25 x 4.75 Production: PK Work Date: 8/28

NEW

www.vaporsontheavenue.com

9 41-79 2- 6 074

Your Main Ingredient for Success Is a degree in

Culinary Arts

or Baking & Pastry Arts

3 Associate degree program 3 Job placement assistance available for graduates 3 Financial aid available to those who qualify

888.635.3516

KUCulinaryArts.com

Keiser University is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools to award certificates and degrees at the associate, baccalaureate, masters, and doctoral levels. Contact the Commission on Colleges at 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, Georgia 30033-4097 or call 404-679-4500 for questions about the accreditation of Keiser University.

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H u n s a d e r Fa r m s Pumpkin Festival Oct. 12 & 13, 19 & 20 and 26 & 27 • 9 am - 5 pm

Admission Is $8, Parking Is $5 • Kids 12 And Under Are FREE Crafts, Food, Hayrides, Pony Rides, Kids Train Ride, BMX, Motocross, Live Bands, Dancers, Jugglers and of course Pumpkins.

New this year is Gunslinger Monster Trucks and Justino Zoppe the magician.

5500 CR 675, Bradenton, FL 34211 www.hunsaderfarms.com Farm Market: 941-322-2168 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