Over the past few years, I’ve been noticing that beer pairing dinners in breweries and restaurants have replaced some of the ubiquitous wine dinners that previously ruled the roost. And, why not? Just like with various wine varieties, different types and styles of beer pair (or don’t pair) well with certain foods. One thing for sure, it’s fun to experiment with food and beer … [Read more...]
Cajun Shrimp Stuffed Pasilla Peppers
I really love all types of stuffed peppers, but especially Mexican peppers like pasillas, poblanos, Anaheims, etc. For this recipe - which is based on one on the Chili Pepper Madness website - I used pasilla peppers but you could use whatever type you prefer or can find. I made one serving each for my wife and me with this recipe. However, it makes enough stuffing for four … [Read more...]
Overcoming Obstacles: Foods that Went From Loathed to Loved
I remember a time, not all that long ago, when foods such as kale, Brussels sprouts, cauliflower and the like were a hard sell, especially in restaurants. But, just as avocado toast has become a “thing” in the past couple years or so, there are a number of foods that, in the past decade, have gone from unloved to positively trendy. Here are some examples of foods that were once … [Read more...]
Provençal-Style Beef Daube
I will never, ever forget the best bowl of beef stew I ever tasted. It was at a restaurant in Provence, France, in the town of Avignon. The bistro is called La Fourchette and the memorable dish was la daube de boeuf à l'Avignonnaise. It was simply sensational. This beef stew (daube, in French) recipe comes really close to that amazing daube that I enjoyed in Avignon. The key … [Read more...]
Super Supper at Stoneground
Awesome Eating Experience; Incredible Value I remember way back when Stoneground Italian Kitchen had a pool table in the middle of the dining room. Not that there was anything wrong with that. Stoneground began as a funky eatery with good, not great, fare before undergoing a major overhaul a few years ago. A complete remodel turned the restaurant from funky to fab - it’s … [Read more...]
Caribbean Spiced Fried Chicken
When I lived in New York City, my friends and I often ate at a bustling restaurant that we loved called Lola’s. It’s been closed now for a number of years, but I fondly remember the delicious fried chicken dish that the restaurant was famous for: Lola’s 100-Spice Caribbean Fried Chicken. Well, it turns out that there weren’t actually 100 spices used in the chicken seasoning. In … [Read more...]
Made in Utah Winter Fest 2019
Made in Utah Winter Fest and Winter Walk Dec. 7-8, 14-15 and 21-22 SALT LAKE CITY, UT — (November 20, 2019) -- Utah Stories has partnered with The Gateway to present the second annual Made in Utah Winter Fest in collaboration with the Gateway’s unique Winter Walk holiday light experience. With distinctive holiday light displays created by local artists, specialty art and … [Read more...]
WHERE’S THE FIRE? Bargain Binging at Oak Wood Fire Kitchen
Oak Wood Fire Kitchen During the holiday season - which is suddenly upon us - we like to spend time with friends and family. And that includes dining out in restaurants. However, for some of us, it’s also a time when money can be pretty tight. Well, do I have good news for you. I have discovered a really fine restaurant with excellent food and service that won’t put a crimp in … [Read more...]
Shrimp with Shallot-Cream Mustard Sauce
This is a very elegant, delicious dish that’s pretty easy to make once you’ve got all of the ingredients prepped and ready to go. The actual cooking time isn’t more than about 10 minutes. Serve with rice pilaf, orzo, quinoa, etc. Ingredients: 1 lb. large shrimp/prawns, peeled and deveined 1/2 cup fresh parsley leaves 1/4 cup fresh tarragon leaves 1/2 cup cornichons … [Read more...]
Restaurant Econ 101 – Why you paid $22 for a $12 steak
What You, Restaurant-Goer, Don't Know Having written about restaurants, food and drink for 25 years, I’ve learned a lot about the industry. And one of the things I learned is that many, if not most, restaurant customers don’t really understand how hard it is to make a living running a restaurant. As most restaurateurs know, but many of their guests don’t, is that … [Read more...]