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Showing posts with label Charity. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Charity. Show all posts

Friday, December 13, 2024

2024: Favorite Food-Related Items

What were some of my favorite food-related items of the past year?

Let me continue my lists of my best recommendations and favorite restaurants and food items of 2024, addressing my Favorite Food-Related Items. This is certainly not a complete list but it's more a sampling of memorable food items I've experienced and/or posted about over the past year. This is also a purely subjective list, based on my own preferences, and makes no claims about being the "best" of anything. But all of the items here have earned my strong recommendations and I hope you will enjoy them as well. For more food-related items, you can just search my blog posts for the past year.

Favorite Culinary School:
 NECAT is a local culinary school which trains people from challenging backgrounds, from ex-convicts to recovering addicts, from the homeless to the chronically unemployed. NECAT fills an important need for culinary help while helping numerous people achieve a better life. It is such a worthy school, helping to transform lives, and it really touches my heart. It helps individuals while also helping the community, and I continue, year after year, to try to raise awareness of NECAT so that its good work can continue and even expand. It's one of my favorite causes and is well worthy of your continued support.

Favorite Overall BakeryLulu's Bakery & Pantry, in Salem, offers a wide variety of sweet and savory treats, including a number with a West Virginia connection. The owners, Nikki & Jim, have excellent culinary resumes, and evidence the passion I seek. Pepperoni rolls, corn bread, biscuits, chocolates, cupcakes, muffins, sandwiches, and so much more. Their large Whoopie Pies are some of the best I've ever eaten, with almost a chewy brownie-like cookie filled with a sweet, creamy filling. Any time I visit the Salem area, I try to stop here to pick up something to take home. Highly recommended!

Runner-Up Overall Bakery
: Quebrada Bakery, with four locations including one in Arlington where I most often patronize, has my favorite Snickerdoodles cookies anywhere. You can even buy the frozen cookie dough to easily cook the Snickerdoodles at home. They have plenty of other delicious baked goods, from croissants to pecan rolls. And on one of my most recent trips, I tried their Whoopie Pie, which was excellent, with a soft chocolate cake sandwiching a very creamy filling. 

Runner-Up Overall Bakery
: Sandpiper Bakery in Ipswich was a new find to me this year. Their small Whoopie Pies were also delicious, but they don't seem to have them on a regular basis. Their Croissants are superb, buttery and flaky, and I especially love the Ham & Cheese croissants. They have plenty of other fresh and delicious baked goods. The bakery is a bit hidden, but is well worth seeking out. 

Favorite Greek Bakery: Greek Habits by Eva, with locations in Arlington (which just opened in 2024) and Peabody, is an impressive spot. Their Handmade Greek Pies, such as Ham & Cheese and Spinach, have a tasty flaky crust, and plenty of fillings. The warm Bougatsa, a Greek custard pie (pictured above), is amazing! They also sell a variety of pastries, many Greek, but also other interesting ones, including plenty of chocolate treats. In addition, they have a number of appealing sandwiches, such as Bifteki, Smoked Salmon, and Caprese

Favorite Bread Bakery: Mamadou's Artisan Bakery
, in Winchester, is my favorite spot for fresh, delicious breads, especially their Sesame Semolina. They also produce excellent Croissants and Chocolate Chip cookies. It's a small take-out spot, open Wednesday to Sunday, and run by very nice people. Get there early each day for the best selection.

Favorite Donut Shop
: Donuts With A Difference, in Medford, is an old-school donut shop that still makes their donuts in-house. They make more traditional donuts, and not the fancy ones available at some of the newer donut shops. Their donuts are fresh and delicious, and frequently even still warm. They are also very inexpensive, roughly half the price of many other donut shops. I especially love their Coffee Rolls! 

Favorite Seafood Market
: The Ipswich Shellfish Fish Market, which is only open on Fridays and Saturdays, is an excellent spot for seafood, both fresh and frozen. The fresh fish looks great, is reasonably priced, and tastes delicious. They have a good variety of seafood, all dependent on what's seasonally available. Their frozen seafood is also very good, such as their Swordfish steaks and Shrimp. Plus, their home-made corn bread is delicious! I've shopped there numerous times this year, and have always enjoyed everything I've bought. As I've said many times, you need to Eat More Seafood, and this is a great place to buy your fish.

Favorite Japanese Food Market: Maruichi (with locations in Arlington, Brookline and Connecticut) is an excellent Japanese grocery store, and I usually go to their Arlington location. It offers a diverse selection of Japanese foods, fresh and frozen, as well as plenty of fresh vegetables, including some Asian varieties. Their meat selection is compelling and they have a superb selection of sushi-grade fish. You can get sushi meals, onigiri, and other dishes made in-house. Plus, there's a wide range of Japanese foods, from tea to sauces, candy to chips, breads and pastries, and much more. And their prices are generally very reasonable. 

Favorite Restaurant Recovery
: In July, two days after enjoying lunch at the Jana Grill & Bakery in Watertown, a truck slammed into the restaurant, forcing it to shut down. The restaurant serves delicious Armenian, Georgian, Slavic and Mediterranean cuisine. One of my favorite dishes there is the Ajarian Khachapuri, a Georgian cheese bread (pictured above). Fortunately, the restaurant has made repairs and reopened this month. I look forward to dining there again. 

Most Anticipated New Restaurant
: The Xenia Hospitality Group, which is behind Krasi, Bar Vlaha, Greco and Hecate (some of my favorite spots), has recently opened Kaia, in the South End, a Greek restaurant centered on the cuisine of the Aegean. I attended an opening preview but haven't dined there yet. However, based on their prior restaurants, I expect great things from Kaia, and will be making it one of my first restaurants visits in 2025.  

Favorite Barbecue Sauce: Last Spring, A Tavola held a Bourbon & BBQ dinner, and Sous Chef David Paige created a BBQ sauce for some of the dishes. The recipe is about seven-years old, and David has been tweaking it over the years, improving it with time. The dishes were delicious, and I enjoyed the tang and complexity of the sauce. Fortunately, they also sold bottles of the BBQ sauce and I bought a couple to take home. I've since used the sauce for a few different dishes, such as steak tips, and it has been a great addition. The restaurant has continued to sell this sauce by the bottle and I highly recommend you purchase some. It would make a great holiday gift.  

Food History Articles: During the pandemic, it was tough for many food and drink writers, as restaurants were closed and large scale food and drink events were canceled. Some writers simply wrote sporadically. However, for myself, I've devoted many hours to researching and writing numerous historical food articles, combing through thousands of newspapers and books. I've especially delved into the origins of numerous foods, trying to seek out their true origins, and not just accepting the unsubstantiated claims of others. I've continued to do so, finding great joy in the research and discoveries that I've found. Here are the historical food articles I completed this past year. And I have been working on a few more articles which will see light in early 2025.
Favorite Old Tradition (Which Needs a Revival): In 2022, while researching some other items, I stumbled upon a fascinating old Thanksgiving tradition, having donuts on your Thanksgiving table! This tradition extends back at least to the 1830s, and lasted for over 100 years, until the 1940s. It apparently started in New England, but expanded across the entire country, even to Hawaii. It's time to revive this tradition! For the last two Thanksgivings, I've been having donuts as part of my Thanksgiving table and have been encouraging others to do the same, some who have also adopted this tradition. Hopefully in 2025, even more people will embrace this old tradition. Who wouldn't love donuts on Thanksgiving? 

Unfortunate Restaurant News: The Moldova Restaurant, which has been one of my favorite restaurants, will be closing its doors on December 29, 2024. They have stated, "Business conditions in 2024 have made it unfeasible to continue operating the restaurant as a business, and as a result we have lost our lease." This was such a unique and delicious restaurant, the only restaurant I know in the area which presented Moldovan cuisine. They will be surely missed. I wish the owners, Artur & Sandra Andronic, the best of luck in the future and hope they will return soon with another culinary endeavor.

**********

What were some of your favorite food-related items this year?

Monday, November 18, 2024

Rant: Don't Be A Selfish, Greedy Glutton

With the holiday season upon us, food and drink blogs are ramping up their holiday coverage. You'll soon read epic tales of sumptuous feasts, accompanied by expensive and rare bottles of wine. You'll find plenty of holiday recipes, describing how to prepare some of the most decadent dishes. You'll be regaled with tales of pricey gifts received, from costly electronics to tropical vacations. Colorful photos will display all of these hedonistic pleasures in their luxuriant glory.

However, I want to see something else, something more meaningful. Are you up to the challenge?

I don't want to be regaled by selfish, greedy gluttons. Instead, I want to hear about charitable efforts to help those less fortunate. This should be a time of generosity and charity, of giving to others rather than feeding our own gluttony. Though many love the holiday season, it can be a very sad time for those with little or nothing. Every community has some people who find it difficult merely to pay for basic essentials. Share your largess with others, helping those who truly need it.

Even for those of us who are having tough economic times, we all probably can help out others, even if only in little ways. If you cannot spare money, then donate your time or make something to give to others, maybe bake a pie, cookies or casserole. Donate old clothes or other durable items which you no longer use. There are many different ways to help out others besides just monetary donations. All it takes is a little creativity and thought.

During this season, there are numerous restaurants, chefs, stores and others which are holding special charitable events. Promote those events on your blogs, spreading the word far and wide. Attend those events, encouraging others to do the same. Give to your favorite charities, whatever they might be. Just don't revel in selfish, greedy gluttony, ignoring the plight of others.

This applies to our readers as well and I encourage all of you to be charitable as well, in whatever way that you can. Be creative in your efforts, even if your own finances are tight. That would be the best gift I could receive from my readers, the knowledge that you have all helped out those less fortunate.

Let us share with all during this joyous holiday season.

Friday, December 15, 2023

2023: Favorite Food-Related Items

What were some of my favorite food-related items of the past year?


Let me continue my lists of my best recommendations and favorite restaurants and food items of 2023, addressing my Favorite Food-Related Items of the past year. This is certainly not a complete list but it's more a sampling of memorable food items I've experienced and/or posted about over the past year. This is also a purely subjective list, based on my own preferences, and makes no claims about being the "best" of anything. But all of the items here have earned my strong recommendations and I hope you will enjoy them as well. For more food-related items, you can just search my blog posts for the past year.

Favorite Culinary School:
 NECAT is a local culinary school which trains people from challenging backgrounds, from ex-convicts to recovering addicts, from the homeless to the chronically unemployed. NECAT fills an important need for culinary help while helping numerous people achieve a better life. It is such a worthy school, helping to transform lives, and it really touches my heart. It helps individuals while also helping the community, and I continue, year after year, to try to raise awareness of NECAT so that its good work can continue and even expand. It's one of my favorite causes and is well worthy of your continued support.

Favorite Overall BakeryLulu's Bakery & Pantry, in Salem, offers a wide variety of sweet and savory treats, including a number with a West Virginia connection. The owners, Nikki & Jim, have excellent culinary resumes, and evidence the passion I seek. Pepperoni rolls, corn bread, biscuits, chocolates, cupcakes, muffins, sandwiches, and so much more. Their large Whoopie Pies are some of the best I've ever eaten, with almost a chewy brownie-like cookie filled with a sweet, creamy filling. Any time I visit the Salem area, I try to stop here to pick up something to take home. Highly recommended!

Favorite Bread Bakery: Mamadou's Artisan Bakery, in Winchester, is my favorite spot for fresh, delicious breads, especially their Sesame Semolina. They also produce excellent Croissants and Chocolate Chip cookies. It's a small take-out spot, open Wednesday to Sunday, and run by very nice people. Get there early each day for the best selection.

Favorite Donut Shop: Donuts With A Difference, in Medford, is an old-school donut shop that still makes their donuts in-house. They make more traditional donuts, and not the fancy ones available at some of the newer donut shops. Their donuts are fresh and delicious, and frequently even still warm. They are also very inexpensive. I also love their Coffee Rolls! 

Favorite Japanese Food Market: Maruichi (with locations in Arlington, Brookline and Connecticut) is an excellent Japanese grocery store, and I usually go to their Arlington location. It offers a diverse selection of Japanese foods, fresh and frozen, as well as plenty of fresh vegetables, including some Asian varieties. Their meat selection is compelling and they have a superb selection of sushi-grade fish. You can get sushi meals, onigiri, and other dishes made in-house. Plus, there's a wide range of Japanese foods, from tea to sauces, candy to chips, breads and pastries, and much more. And their prices are generally very reasonable. 

Most Anticipated New Restaurant: From the Xenia Hospitality Group, which is behind Krasi, Bar Vlaha, Greco and Hecate, will be opening a new location of Greco at the Burlington Mall in 2024. Greco is a fast casual restaurant, specializing in gyros and loukoumades (Greek donut holes). I love their food and it will be great to have this option north of Boston. 

Restaurants I Want To Visit in 2024: At the top of my list is Simcha, located in Sharon, which serves modern Israeli cuisine. The menu intrigues me, and I've heard much positive press about the restaurant. I was supposed to dine there recently, but unforeseen circumstances made me have to cancel the reservation. But, I hope to dine there soon. I also want to dine at Bar Vlaha, in Brookline, which serves Greek Vlach cuisine with Greek wines. I attended their opening, which was excellent, but still haven't made it in for dinner. It's also a very popular restaurant, so reservations are highly recommended. And based on some recent comments from friends, I'm intrigued to visit Mahaniyom, in Brookline, a Thai Tapas Bar. Their Drinks and Food menus have made intriguing options. 

Food History Articles: Since the start of the pandemic, it's been tough for many food writers and some have simply written sporadically, especially those who concentrated on restaurant reviews. For myself, I've continued to devote many hours to researching and writing numerous historical food articles, combing through thousands of newspapers and books. I've especially delved into the origins of numerous foods, trying to seek out their true origins, and not just accepting the unsubstantiated claims of others. Here are the historical food articles I completed this past year. 


Favorite Old Tradition (Which Needs a Revival): In 2022, while researching some other items, I stumbled upon a fascinating old Thanksgiving tradition, having donuts on your Thanksgiving table! This tradition extends back at least to the 1830s, and lasted for over 100 years, until the 1940s. It apparently started in New England, but expanded across the entire country, even to Hawaii. It's time to revive this tradition! For the last two Thanksgivings, I've been having donuts as part of my Thanksgiving table and have been encouraging others to do the same, some who have also adopted this tradition. Hopefully in 2024, even more people will embrace this old tradition. Who wouldn't love donuts on Thanksgiving? 

Saddest Restaurant News: The Tasting Counter, which was one of my Top Three Favorite Restaurants, had to close this summer, due to issues with their landlord. As I've said before, Chef Peter Ungár is one of the best chefs in the Boston-area and I eagerly hope that he will open a new endeavor in the near future. The Boston restaurant scene is lesser without his talents. I know he has been considering his options, and it will be great to see what he eventually decides to do.  

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Maine Trip: This past year, I traveled to Maine, to the Biddeford/Portland region, for a weekend vacation, and there were a number of culinary highlights, including:
Favorite Croatian Dishes: In the Spring of 2022, I spent two weeks in Croatia, traveling across the country, enjoying its food, wine, spirits, culture, history, and more. I ended up writing about 50 articles about my experiences, and some of those articles were posted in 2023. That included my Top Ten Dishes From My Croatian JourneyFiš paprikaš (pictured above), Mali Ston OystersTruffle Risotto, Samoborska kremšnita, and more. Croatia should be on your short list of countries to visit in 2024. 

Portugal Trip: I traveled to Portugal this past October, spending a week exploring the regions of the Vinho Verde and the Douro, as well as Porto and Vila Nova de Gaia. Although I'm still writing about my experiences on this trip, I'll highlight here some of my favorite culinary experiences which I have already covered.
What were some of your favorite food-related items this year?

Monday, November 13, 2023

Rant: Please Consider The Less Fortunate

It's mid-November and many of us are probably thinking about our upcoming plans for Thanksgiving. Where will you dine? What foods and drinks will be on your table? Plus, you might also be thinking about Christmas, Hanukkah, or other upcoming holiday celebrations. You might already be considering about what gifts to present to your family, friends, and loved ones. Your thoughts will likely be directed to how you can maximize your own enjoyment of these upcoming holidays.

However, stop and ponder another significant thought: Please consider the less fortunate.

These are tough economic times, and we're all aware that prices for everything have risen. Most of us have been tightening our belts while shopping, restricting our spending in some ways. However, these times are especially difficult for some people, and helping them could make a significant impact.

Let us work together to help those who need some assistance this holiday season, even if it requires a little sacrifice on our part. Make this a meaningful holiday season, rather than a selfish one. Though many of us love and enjoy the holiday season, it can be a very sad and disappointing time for those with little or nothing.

Every community has some people who find it difficult merely to pay for basic essentials, especially now, let alone to buy holiday gifts or prepare a special holiday feast. We can help though, and try to bring some joy to the less fortunate. Share your largess with others, helping those who truly need it.

Even though these are tough economic times for many of us, we all probably can help out others, even if only in little ways. If you cannot spare money, then donate your time, maybe spending it at a food bank or shelter. Or make something to give to others, such as baking a pie, cookies or casserole. Donate old clothes or other durable items which you no longer use. There are many different ways to help out others besides just monetary donations. Be creative in your efforts, even if your own finances are tight.

During this season, there are also numerous restaurants, chefs, stores and others which are holding special charitable events. Promote those events on your social media, tell your family and friends, spreading the word far and wide. Attend those events, encouraging others to do the same. 

Let us share with all during this upcoming holiday season, bringing together everyone in a more united community. There are enough divisions in our world right now and we need more unity, especially at this time. Don't just think of yourself but think of others, think about what you can do to make this world a better place.

Monday, November 14, 2022

Rant: Consider The Less Fortunate

It's mid-November and many of us are probably thinking about our upcoming plans for Thanksgiving. Plus, you might also be thinking about Christmas, Hanukkah, or other holiday celebrations. You might already be considering which food and drink you'll enjoy, or thinking about what gifts to present to your loved ones. Your thoughts will likely be directed to how you can maximize your own enjoyment of these upcoming holidays.

However, stop and ponder another significant thought: Please consider the less fortunate.

With inflation, we all are aware that prices for everything have risen. Most of us have been tightening our belts a bit while shopping, restricting our spending in some ways. However, these times are especially difficult for some people, and helping them would make a significant impact.

Let us work together to help those who need some assistance this holiday season, even if it requires a little sacrifice on our part. Make this a meaningful holiday season, rather than a selfish one. Though many of us love and enjoy the holiday season, it can be a very sad and disappointing time for those with little or nothing. Every community has some people who find it difficult merely to pay for basic essentials, especially now, let alone to buy holiday gifts or prepare a special holiday feast. We can help though, and try to bring some joy to the less fortunate. Share your largess with others, helping those who truly need it.

Even though these are tough economic times for many of us, we all probably can help out others, even if only in little ways. If you cannot spare money, then donate your time, maybe spending it at a food bank or shelter. Or make something to give to others, such as baking a pie, cookies or casserole. Donate old clothes or other durable items which you no longer use. There are many different ways to help out others besides just monetary donations. Be creative in your efforts, even if your own finances are tight.

Let us share with all during this upcoming holiday season, bringing together everyone in a more united community. There are enough divisions in our world right now and we need more unity, especially at this time. Don't just think of yourself but think of others, think about what you can do to make this world a better place.

Monday, August 15, 2022

Rant: Wander & Discover

The city of Boston has easily over 3,000 eating and drinking establishments, but how many of those places do you know? Even if you live in Boston, you probably still don't know all of the existing spots just in your own neighborhood. You probably know even less about the other Boston neighborhoods. If you live in Cambridge or Somerville, or even a suburb, you also probably don't know all of the eating and drinking spots near you. 

That should change!

There are likely numerous excellent restaurants, bakeries, markets, and bars you've never visited, or even know. Some may have received many accolades but you've never actually stopped there. Others are more hidden treasures, which rarely, if ever, get media attention, but are worthy spots anyway. You can return time and again to your favorite places, but it's probably better to also take some time to explore what else exists. You never know when or where you might discover a new favorite. 

So, during the rest of the summer as well as through the fall, why not revel in a sense of discovery. Be an explorer of your own neighborhood, and surrounding areas, and check out some of the interesting spots which you've never visited before. Expand your palate and try something different. Spend your time walking the streets, finding new places, getting to know the area much better. 

If you'd like some inspiration, then check out the example of my friend, Patrick Maguire of Server Not Servant, who has started a walking exploration of all of the neighborhoods of Boston. Check out his initial post about this endeavor, which explains his mission, as well as an article & video from CBS Boston. Patrick's post states that his primary objective is to: "Explore and showcase Boston’s neighborhoods by walking deep into every one of them, discovering hidden gems and the real ‘heart and soul’ of each hood." In addition, he will be raising money for two local charities, Make-A-Wish MA & RI and Stride for Stride

His endeavor will begin tomorrow, Tuesday, September 16, as he walks the streets of East Boston, planning to cover over 13 miles. He'll be writing about his experiences on his blog with plenty of photos, so nee an eye out for everything he finds on his walks.

And make plans for your own walking explorations, to wander & discover everything in your own neighborhood, as well as the surrounding ones.

Best of luck to Patrick!

Wednesday, August 25, 2021

Chester, Vermont: Helping Hands & Wine, Cheese, Pies, Candy, Donuts, and More

Have you ever visited the small town of Chester, Vermont? 

While in Vermont, I visited my good friend, Christopher Meyer, who founded, with Jason Tostrup of the Free Range restaurant, a charitable, non-profit organization called Chester Helping Hands. It was established during the pandemic to provide food assistance for the local community, such a worthy cause. They currently offer free meals on Wednesdays, provided by local restaurants. They are also supporting local farmers who have provided foods for this program as well. All of these meals are financed through donations, and the workers who help disseminate the meals are volunteers.

On the Wednesday I was in Vermont, Chris and Chester Helping Hands set up their table on The Common in Chester, a street with a number of small businesses, from an antiques shop to a book store. A line of cars queued up to receive their free mails, and about 700 meals were ultimately disseminated. The process ran smoothly and it was inspiring to see how this community has come together to help each other during these tough times. Not only do local residents receive free food, but restaurants and farms receive support as well, helping them as they too are hurting because of the pandemic. 

If you would like to support Chester Helping Hands, you can Venmo them a donation to @ChesterHelpingHands. As they are a 501c3 organization; your donations should be tax-deductible. I'm proud of my friend Chris for having developed such an admirable program.

In the vicinity of The Common in Chester, there's a number of cool food and drink shops too. I made brief stops to a few of these places, although I would like to explore them in more depth in a future trip. Chester is a small town, of only about 3,000 people, but its worth your while to explore this interesting community. Here's a few spots I'd highly recommend you check out.

The Meditrina Wine & Cheese shop is an excellent place with a very compelling beer and wine selection, and some gourmet foods. It's a small store, but there's plenty of food and drink available, filling the shelves floor to ceiling, and I bet you find plenty to tantalize you. The shop also conducts regular wine tastings. I spoke briefly with Amy Anderson, the owner of the shop, and she evidenced the passion for wine I seek from such shop owners. I probably could have sat down with her and spoke about wine for hours.

There is a section of Vermont cheese and gourmet foods, including Torres Potato Chips, one of my favorites. If you're going to drink wine or beer, it's always pleasant to have some snacks too.

There's also a section of local beers and ciders, and this is where I bought the Shacksbury Whistlepig Lo-Ball. Vermont is well known for its craft beers, and there certainly was a wide variety of local offerings for sale. 



These photos are just a small section of the wine shop, and as I skimmed the wine shelves, I found much that appealed to me, including plenty of natural wines, small production wines, and some other intriguing wines, including a Red Vinho Verde (which I bought). They have wine at all price points and any wine lover will find much of interest. This well-curated selection would be impressive wherever it was located. Finding it in the small town of Chester was intriguing and all wine lovers need to make this a stop while they are in southern Vermont.

These "bears" stand outside the Chester Candy Company, a small spot that concentrates primarily on sweet treats made in Vermont and New England. There's plenty of decadent chocolates, fudge, retro-candies, gummies, sours, hard candies, and much more. I enjoyed their Dark Chocolate Bourbon Caramels, which certainly had a prominent bourbon taste. 

Another cool spot is the Southern Pie Company (of which I sadly didn't get any pics), which specializes in pie, especially with a southern flair. Bourbon Pecan Pie, Chess Pie, Buttermilk Pie, Sur Cream Peach Pie, and so much more. The pies looked awesome, and I was very tempted to pick up a pecan pie, but I already had too many treats at the moment. However, they also make some other baked goods, and I got some of their tasty, fudgy brownies. I will get some pie on my next visit. In addition, you'll find a variety of breakfast and lunch sandwiches, and have a variety of drinks, including various coffees. 

Less than a mile away, you should visit Smitty's Chester Market, a small grocery store with plenty of the usual items, as well as a meat counter, beer & wine, and a deli. I visited the deli a couple times, which sells a variety of customizable sandwiches, as well as salads, soups, mac n' cheese, and other dishes. Every day, there is something different offered on the menu.

Their sandwiches are ample, fresh, tasty, and reasonably pricesd. They are also made for take-out only as they don't have a dining area. In addition, they sell a variety of baked goods, made in-house, including amazing Apple Cider Donuts, dipped in cinnamon/sugar, and a hearty Cinnamon Bread. Get there early as those baked goods disappear quickly. 

And you can ever buy worms and nightcrawlers at Smitty's if you want to do some fishing in Vermont lakes and rivers.

So, when will you take your next trip to southern Vermont?

Friday, April 9, 2021

Joslin Diabetes Center A Taste of Ginger Goes Virtual

Combine a worthy cause and great food and you have a compelling and delicious event.

I have plenty of fond memories of the A Taste of Ginger event, which benefits Joslin Diabetes Center’s Asian American Diabetes Initiative (AADI). The AADI's mission is to raise awareness about diabetes and enhance the quality of life and health outcomes of those living with diabetes in the Asian community through research, education, outreach and improved diabetes treatment. Asian Americans are nearly twice as likely to develop diabetes as the general population – more than 10% of all Asian Americans have diabetes and even more remain undiagnosed. 

A Taste of Ginger brought together numerous local chefs, who each offered a special tasting dish to all of the attendees. I enjoyed many delicious foods at this event over the years. There was also an auction, with many intriguing items you could vie to purchase. And it was often held at the Museum of Fine Arts, an excellent venue for such a fun evening. However, this year, due to the pandemic, A Taste of Ginger has returned, although it will be virtual this time. 

This virtual event will be held on Sunday, May 16, from 7pm-8pm. The event will feature a cultural performance including America’s Got Talent magician Will Tsai, Pianist George Li of the New England Conservatory, and Xiaoyi Chen of the New England Championship Wushu Academy. There will also be cooking demonstrations from local chefs as well as a silent auction.

What about food? You'll still be able to sample dishes from local dishes, as attendees will receive samples delivered straight to each guest’s home. About a dozen local chefs will supply dishes, including Joanne Chang of Flour Bakery + Café, Tracy Chang of PAGU, Jasper White of Summer Shack,, Jimmy Liang of the JP Fuji Group, and more. The guests will receive their sampling box on the day of the event, and each box serves two people. Guests must live within 50 miles of Boston and purchase the appropriate ticket level to be eligible for a tasting box.

Culinary chair Bik Fung Ng has been a committee member of A Taste of Ginger since its creation in 2005; she has more than 30 years of experience in the food industry and has been an activist in the Asian community for many years, often collaborating with the AADI on nutrition-related projects. This year’s event honors Carol & Jeffrey Horvitz who have been involved with Joslin and A Taste of Ginger for many years and were instrumental in the event’s partnership with Boston’s Museum of Fine Arts.

Emceed by NBC10 Boston and NECN anchor and reporter Audrey Asistio, the event will show appreciation for its current and past restaurant partners that have been impacted by COVID-19 and will celebrate the substantial advances the AADI has made through research, education, outreach, and culturally appropriate treatments. This event marks the 16th year that funds raised by supporters of A Taste of Ginger have helped fund the important work of the AADI. 

You may purchase a ticket for $150 (which does not include the tasting box) or a ticket for $250 (which includes a tasting box). Tickets can be purchased here. If you are unable to attend the event, please click here to donate to A Taste of Ginger. This is definitely a tough year for this fundraiser so if you can contribute, it would be worthwhile for many reasons.

Monday, November 18, 2019

Rant: Don't Forget The Less Fortunate

It's mid-November and many of us are probably thinking about our upcoming plans for Thanksgiving. Plus, you might also be thinking about Christmas, Hanukkah, or other holiday celebrations. You might already be considering which food and drink you'll enjoy, or thinking about what gifts to present to your loved ones. Your thoughts will likely be directed to how you can maximize your own enjoyment of these upcoming holidays.

However, please stop and ponder another significant thought: Don't forget those less fortunate.

Let us work together to help those who need some assistance this holiday season, even if it requires a little sacrifice on our part. Make this a meaningful holiday season, rather than a selfish one. Though many of us love and enjoy the holiday season, it can be a very sad and disappointing time for those with little or nothing. Every community has some people who find it difficult merely to pay for basic essentials, let alone to buy holiday gifts or prepare a special holiday feast. We can help though, and try to bring some joy to the less fortunate. Share your largess with others, helping those who truly need it.

Even though these are tough economic times for many of us, we all probably can help out others, even if only in little ways. If you cannot spare money, then donate your time, maybe spending it at a food bank or shelter. Or make something to give to others, such as baking a pie, cookies or casserole. Donate old clothes or other durable items which you no longer use. There are many different ways to help out others besides just monetary donations.

During this season, there will be numerous restaurants, chefs, shops and others which will hold special charitable events. Talk about these events, promote them on social media, and spread the word far and wide. Attend those events, encouraging others to do the same. Give to your favorite charities, whatever they might be. I want to hear about your charitable efforts to help those less fortunate. Be creative in your efforts, even if your own finances are tight.

I will do my own part to help the less fortunate, to share what I possess. Year round, I promote numerous food and wine-related charitable events and probably will promote even more this season. I will give to several charities as well, even if I only can give small amounts, to those which are personally close to my heart. I will try to help in a number of different ways and I strongly encourage everyone to do the same this season.

Let us share with all during this upcoming holiday season, bringing together everyone in a more united community. There are enough divisions in our world right now and we need more unity, especially at this time. Don't just think of yourself but think of others, think about what you can do to make this world a better place.

Tuesday, February 12, 2019

NECAT's 2018 Accomplishments: Donate Now!

NECAT (New England Center for Arts & Technology) is one of my favorite causes. In short, NECAT provides culinary training to students who have had troubles or disadvantages in their past, such as drug addiction or incarceration. You can check out my previous article, Support NECAT & Transform Lives, for more background information on NECAT and their mission.

As I wrote before, "NECAT is helping to show their students that they don't need to be defined by their past, that they can move forward despite what they might have once done. They are helped to believe in themselves so that they can change their lives for the better. They might have challenged backgrounds but that isn't sufficient to hold them back, if they are willing to work toward a better future. These are such worthy goals, creating a better community for all of us."

Now that 2018 is over, NECAT has written about their accomplishment during this past year, noting, "What a year for NECAT! We grew our team, launched a new culinary job training program, developed strong partnerships and continued to provide life-changing services to those who need them most." NECAT opened a second culinary training program in Everett, allowing them to train even more people. In 2018, they were able to educate 164 students, and the Everett program had an impressive completion rate of 86% Overall, graduates of NECAT had a 3-month job retention rate of 76%, indicating they are serious about their new careers, and they also have an average starting wage of $14.52. Lives are being transformed, helping these individuals, their families, and the community.

Importantly, revenues for NECAT increased by 33% over 2017, indicative of the strong support they are receiving from the government and community. Unfortunately, government monies are always tentative as cuts are always possible. They need more private donations, enabling them to expand and teach even more students. If you can, please donate to NECAT and right now is a great time as all donations received in the first quarter of 2019, up to $50,000, will be matched by Robert K. Kraft, owner of the Super Bowl champions New England Patriots. Currently, about $21,515 has been raised so there is more room for growth. Please, donate now!

I'd also recommend you keep your calendar open for a NECAT fundraiser on May 16, with special guest Chef Andy Husbands of The Smoke Shop BBQ. These fundraisers events are a great way to learn more about NECAT, enjoy delicious food prepared by the students, and donate to a great cause.

Monday, November 26, 2018

Rant: Helping The Less Fortunate

As November winds down, and we still ponder the memories of our recent Thanksgiving celebrations, our thoughts also reach out to the upcoming December holiday season. You might already be planning the food and drink you'll enjoy, or thinking about what presents to purchase for your loved ones. Your thoughts will likely be directed to how you can maximize your own enjoyment of these upcoming holidays.

However, please stop and ponder another significant thought: Don't forget those less fortunate.

Let us work together to help those who need some assistance this holiday season, even if it requires a little sacrifice on our part. Make this a meaningful holiday season, rather than a selfish one. Though many of us love and enjoy the holiday season, it can be a very sad and disappointing time for those with little or nothing. Every community has some people who find it difficult merely to pay for basic essentials, let alone to buy holiday gifts or prepare a special holiday feast. We can help though, and try to bring some joy to the less fortunate. Share your largess with others, helping those who truly need it.

Even though these are tough economic times for many of us, we all probably can help out others, even if only in little ways. If you cannot spare money, then donate your time, maybe spending it at a food bank or shelter. Or make something to give to others, such as baking a pie, cookies or casserole. Donate old clothes or other durable items which you no longer use. There are many different ways to help out others besides just monetary donations.

During this season, there will be numerous restaurants, chefs, shops and others which will hold special charitable events. Talk about these events, promote them on social media, and spread the word far and wide. Attend those events, encouraging others to do the same. Give to your favorite charities, whatever they might be. I want to hear about your charitable efforts to help those less fortunate. Be creative in your efforts, even if your own finances are tight.

I will do my own part to help the less fortunate, to share what I possess. Year round, I promote numerous food and wine-related charitable events and probably will promote even more this season. I will give to several charities as well, even if I only can give small amounts, to those which are personally close to my heart. I will try to help in a number of different ways and I strongly encourage everyone to do the same this season.

Let us share with all during this upcoming holiday season, bringing together everyone in a more united community. There are enough divisions in our world right now and we need more unity, especially at this time. Don't just think of yourself but think of others, think about what you can do to make this world a better place.

Monday, November 5, 2018

Rant: Support NECAT & Transform Lives

For at least the last few years, including very recently, numerous sources have noted that Boston has a shortage of cooks and restaurant help. This shortage has contributed to the closing of at least a few restaurants, and has caused difficulties at many more. Thus, efforts to add to the number of cooks will benefit the entire Boston restaurant industry. As such, I throw my wholehearted support behind NECAT (New England Center for Arts & Technology) and I strongly urge all of my readers to give it their support as well. Not only do they train cooks, but they also transform lives.

Recently, NECAT threw a 5th Anniversary party, catered by their students, to celebrate their achievements. Two years ago, I first wrote about NECAT, in my article NECAT: A Culinary School Worthy Of Special Attention, and you should read that article to learn more about the basics and mission of NECAT. In short, NECAT provides culinary training to students who have had trouble or disadvantages in their past, from ex-convicts to high-school dropouts, from ex-drug addicts to the chronically underemployed. NECAT helps these "students forge a new future, providing them an opportunity for a fulfilling and rewarding career."

As I wrote before, "NECAT is helping to show their students that they don't need to be defined by their past, that they can move forward despite what they might have once done. They are helped to believe in themselves so that they can change their lives for the better. They might have challenged backgrounds but that isn't sufficient to hold them back, if they are willing to work toward a better future. These are such worthy goals, creating a better community for all of us." A powerful mission that has accomplished much in only five years.

During the past five years, NECAT has graduated 333 students, with 230 currently employed as cooks. In addition, NECAT has expanded, adding a culinary program in Everett, allowing them to train even more students than possible just at their Boston location. With more financial support, NECAT could continue to expand, and help transform even more lives, adding to the number of cooks in the Boston area. Two worthy goals, accomplished through a singular training program.

I've attended a few of the NECAT events during the last couple years, and the stories of achievement from the graduates have been powerful and inspirational. You can feel their passion, their desire to participate in the restaurant industry. And you can see how it has positively affected their attitudes and lives. NECAT works and needs more support. In addition, I've tasted numerous dishes that the students have created, including what is in these photos from the 5th anniversary celebration, and they have produced plenty of delicious foods.

Restaurant owners and managers, I strongly encourage you to consider hiring NECAT graduates to fill openings in your kitchens. You not only will be hiring new employees, but you will be helping these graduates start new lives. If you are interested in exploring the possibilities, please contact NECAT.

For my other readers, I encourage you to learn more about NECAT and give them your support. Take a tour of the facility, have lunch there, or attend a future event. If you can donate money to NECAT, please do so. And importantly, help spread the word about NECAT. It needs to be much better known and strongly depends on word of mouth to do so. If you know anyone who would benefit from attending NECAT's culinary program, please tell them about the opportunities.

As we enter the holiday season, when charity becomes more prevalent, please consider supporting NECAT.

Thursday, October 4, 2018

Thursday Sips & Nibbles

I am back again with a new edition of Thursday Sips & Nibbles, my regular column where I highlight some interesting, upcoming food & drink events.
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1) Abe & Louie’s celebrates its twenty year anniversary with a sweet gesture for some of the area’s charitable organizations. Starting October 1st, the restaurant will feature a deliciously designed signature dessert that gives back to a different non-profit each month as part of their "20th Anniversary Community Give Back” program.

The specialty desserts are $12 each, with 20% of the proceeds being donated to the corresponding charity and matched by Tavistock Restaurant Collection– the parent company that owns Abe & Louie’s, as well as other restaurants in Massachusetts and throughout the country.

The campaign kicks off October 1st with a special red velvet cake topped with cream cheese icing and pumpkin Oreo ice cream to benefit the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society®(LLS) a dessert inspired by Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML) survivor Mary Shertenlieb, whose inspiring story and efforts in the fight against cancer have touched hearts of the Boston community and beyond. Funds raised throughout October from the sale of the red velvet cake will support Light The Night®. Mary’s team of family & friends, ‘March with Mary’, have participated in the walk since 2013, raising more than $130,000. This October 17th, they will once again gather on the Boston Common with more than 5,000 participants to lift their lanterns and raise funds for research and support for patients and families. To find a walk in your area or support their efforts, visit LightTheNight.org.

In the three months following October, specialty desserts will be designed for the Ellie Fund in November, the Last Call Foundation in December, and the Pedro Martinez Foundation in January.

Guests can order the specialty desserts at any time during the operating hours.

2) Puritan & Company of Inman Square announces a very special upcoming winemaker dinner with Schramsberg Vineyards of Napa Valley. Join winemaker Hugh Davies on Tuesday, October 16th, from 6:30pm-9:30pm, for the opportunity of tasting exquisite sparkling wines followed by a four course lamb dinner prepared by chef/owner Will Gilson.

In 1965, Jack and Jamie Davies established Schramsberg as a sparkling wine estate on the property originally founded in 1862 by German immigrant Jacob Schram. At a time when there were only 22 bonded wineries in Napa Valley and fewer than 100 acres of California vineyards planted to Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, they set out to make world-class sparkling wine in the true méthode traditionelle style. Theirs was the first California winery to provide a Blanc de Blancs in 1965 followed by a Blanc de Noirs in 1967. Now their son Hugh Davies, who was born the same year the Davies arrived at Schramsberg, leads the winery’s management and winemaking team. This is an extraordinary opportunity to taste what are arguably the best sparkling wines made in America

The Menu includes:
Arrival
2014 Blanc de Blancs North Coast, California
sourdough waffle (caviar and crème fraîche)
First Course
2014 Blanc de Noirs North Coast, California
2015 Brut Rosé North Coast, California
seared and chilled scallop salad (pear purée, sea beans, brown butter bread crumbs)
Second Course
2016 Davies Vineyards Pinot Noir “Nobles Vineyard” Fort Ross-Seaview, Sonoma County
charcoal-grilled duck (lentils, potato purée, onions, cranberry jus)
Main Course
2015 J. Davies Cabernet Sauvignon Diamond Mountain, Napa Valley
smoked rack of lamb (mint salsa verde, heirloom carrots, roasted parsnip)
Dessert
2009 J. Schram Brut North Coast
aged goat cheese (figs, pistachios, toasted brioche)

The $145 tickets are inclusive of dinner, wine, and gratuity and are available at EventBrite. Please email rebecca@puritancambridge.com if you have any allergy or dietary restrictions that chef should be aware of.

3) If you love spicy cocktails and tequila is your poison, meet Sumiao Hunan Kitchen’s The Devil’s Nest, an October cocktail special created by the Kendall Square restaurant’s bar team just in time for Halloween. "The Devil’s Nest might sound evil but the flavors are angelic, featuring sweet ingredients like passion fruit puree, lime juice and a dash of grenadine. Staying true to its name, it also packs some fiery flavors with muddled jalapenos that are shaken with tequila. Chile “horns” as a garnish brings it to life."

WHEN: Available during normal operating hours throughout the month of October.
COST: $10 per cocktail

Thursday, September 20, 2018

Thursday Sips & Nibbles

I am back again with a new edition of Thursday Sips & Nibbles, my regular column where I highlight some interesting, upcoming food & drink events.
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1) October is National Breast Cancer Awareness month and Osteria Nino is raising awareness and funds with Think Pink: a fun night of floral arranging with Alice's Table. On Wednesday, October 10th at 6:30 p.m., sip on seasonal cocktails while you learn the tips and tricks of flower arranging. At the end of the night bring home your arrangement in a stylish new vase.

$10 from every ticket purchased will be donated to the Susan G. Komen Foundation. Tickets cost $65 and can be purchased at: https://alicestable.com/events/think-pink_1534517185

2) Join Executive Chef Stefano Zimei and Sommelier Bruno Marini of CHOPPS American Bar and Grill for a Global Wine Dinner, where wines from around the world are expertly paired to offer guests a cultural experience unlike any other. On Friday September 21st, from 6:45pm-9:45pm, sommelier Bruno Marini and the team at CHOPPS will transport guests from Burlington to international grounds with a global tasting of wines from around the world. Guests will nosh on an four-course prix fixe meal paired with international wines.

The full menu is as follows:
Reception
Chef’s Selection of Passed Hors d’oeuvre
NV Louis Roederer ‘Brut Premeir’, Reims, France
First Course
PRIME BEEF CARPACCIO (Olive Relish, Truffle Aioli, Shaved Parmesian, Ciabatta)
Alborino Martin Codax ‘Burgans’, Val do Salnes, Spain
Entree
PEPPERCORN CRUSTED NEW YORK STRIP (River Rock Farms, Potato Pave, Shallot Brandy)
Cabernet Sauvignon Kelleher ‘Brix Vineyard’, Napa, California
Vs.
Super Tuscan Ca’Marcanda ‘Promise’ by Gaja, Tuscany, Italy
Dessert
BLUEBERRY COBBLER
NV Moscato Di Asti Michele Chiarlo ‘Nivole’ Piedmont, Italy

Price is $85 per person (inclusive of tax and gratuity). Space is limited, reservations are required, and tickets can be purchased through Eventbrite.

3) As part of Legal Sea Foods’ 10th annual Oyster Festival, they will once again host an event on the all-weather rooftop at Legal Harborside. “Mollusk Mania" is an “everything oyster” celebration featuring a raw bar of six varieties. Amidst panoramic harbor views, guests will be treated to bushels including freshly shucked seasonal standouts from Wellfleet, Cotuit, Katama Bay, Cranberry Cove, Standish Shore and Washburn Island. Legal Sea Foods’ shuckers will be on-hand giving interactive "How to Shuck an Oyster" tutorials.

VIP ticket holders will be granted early admission at 1pm and receive a VIP plate of shell-shockingly good prepared appetizers: baked oysters, grilled oysters, an oyster slider and a fried oyster sushi hand roll.

Restaurant specialties will be available for the duration of the Oyster Festival through October 10 and include Fried Oysters (three for $10) in four preparations (buffalo, BBQ, sriracha lime and BLT); Baked Oysters (three for $12) available in a quartet of options (lobster spinach, crab & cheese, scampi and roasted); and the Legal Sea Foods teams will shuck seasonal standouts at their raw bars daily for those who opt to go au natural. Legals also suggests washing it down with the official drink of the 2018 Oyster Festival, the Deadrise, with Tito’s Handmade Vodka, muddled cucumber, lime and grapefruit bitters ($11).

Date: Sunday, September 23
VIP admission: 1:00pm-3:00pm
General admission: 1:30pm-3:00pm

COST: VIP admission: $65 per person (includes tax)
General admission: $55 per person (includes tax)
But your Tickets online here.

4) Gather, the Briar Group eatery at District Hall in the Seaport, invites Boston’s brunchers to get a taste of some friendly competition between some of the area’s best restaurants at the 4thAnnual Brunch Battle, held on Saturday, October 6, from 12pm-2pm, to benefit Community Servings.

Guests will cast their vote for their brunch favorites as Boston's best brunch spots duke it out to see who will be voted this year's Brunch Battle Champ! Competitors include Gather, LuLu’s, Brownstone, Row 34, Southern Proper, Metropolis, Branch Line, Towne Stove & Spirits, The Broadway, and more.

Sponsors: Lunetta, Barrington Coffee and Tito's Handmade Vodka, who will generously match the donation to Community Servings up to $1,500.

Tickets are available for $25 and include admittance and brunch samples from all restaurants. This event is 21+. For tickets and information, visit this link: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/4th-annual-brunch-battle-tickets-48499529398

5) Executive Chef Nick Deutmeyer and the Post 390 team invite guests to rejoice in cooler weather with a special Farm to Post dinner on Wednesday, October 3, from 6pm-9pm, featuring the freshest local apples and cider from Kimball Fruit Farm, a third-generation family run farm owned and operated by Carl and Marie Hills in Pepperell.

Post 390's Farm to Post tasting series features a monthly spotlight on some of New England’s finest farmers, producers, vineyards, brewers, and fishermen and focuses on ingredients that are sourced locally and produced sustainably. Every month or so Executive Chef Nick Deutmeyer and his team create a special “Farm to Post” menu highlighting products from these farms and producers.

The Apples & Cider Kimball Fruit Farm Dinner menu is as follows:
Cocktail Hour
--Apple & Cheddar Cheese Tasting
--Pork & Apple Sausage Tartelettes (blue cheese, dried fig, frisee, apple cider vinaigrette)
--Brandied Apple Flambé (duck liver mousse, parsley)
First Course
Chilled Crab & Apples (tart apple & herb gelée, peekytoe crab celery root salad, hackleback caviar, marcona almond, Florentine, chive crème fraiche)
Second Course
Sing a Song of Sixpence (roasted young pigeon, moutarde violette, rye & honey crumble, apple tarte tatin, blackberry-rosemary jus)
Entrée Course
Hand-Carved Heritage Porchettea (apple & sage bread stuffing, wild mushroom velouté, pumpkin mousse, cider reduction)
Dessert Course
Warm Apple Spice Cake (vanilla ice cream, maple glaze)

Tickets to the Farm to Post Dinner on October 3 are available on Eventbrite for $55 per person, and include a special cocktail hour, three course dinner and beverage pairings. Following the kick-off dinner the menu will be available in the restaurant for six weeks.