Red Arrow Diner: Quick Review

Yesterday, after a shopping visit to the Merrimack Premium Outlets in New Hampshire, I needed to find a place for a good lunch. Fortunately, earlier in the week, I received a recommendation from Marc of Boston's Hidden Restaurants to check out the Red Arrow Diner in Manchester, just north of the outlets. It turned out to be a fine recommendation and I must second his recommendation to anyone who finds themselves near Manchester.

The diner originally opened its doors in October 1922, over 90 years ago, and has undergone some changes in ownership over this time. Around 1987, the diner was purchased by Carol Sheehan, who is still the current owner, and there is also a second location in Milford, which opened in October 2008. The diner is open 24/7 and serves breakfast, lunch and dinner all the time. So whenever you get a craving for Belgian waffles or a piece of meatloaf, you can find it here. We could use more 24/7 diners in Boston and the suburbs.

The menu is extensive, with plenty of the usual diner fare as well as some of their own unique specialties like homemade pork pie. Nearly everything on the breakfast and lunch menus, and most items on the dinner menu, are under $10. On the dinner menu, the items basically top out at $12.99. This is a very affordable menu, with plenty of diversity. There are also a number of specials each day, giving you even more choices.

Most of the seating are stools at the counter, with a handful of booths in one corner. There is certainly a diner-ambiance going on. From your seat, you might be able to see their desserts in a refrigerated cooler, such as cream pies and whoopie pies. Service is friendly and good.

I decided on the Monte-Christo Sandwich ($8.99), ham, turkey and Swiss on French toast, which comes with your choice of a side and I opted for the homemade potato chips. The sandwich pleased me, with plenty of pieces of fresh turkey in it, and a nice, eggy bread. One of the better Monte Cristo sandwiches I have enjoyed. And the chips were delicious, though could have used a bit more salt, which is still better than being over salted. All I needed to do was a quick shake of salt over them. They were crisp, slightly warm and had a clean flavor to them.

The other dishes I saw looked good and my dining companions enjoyed their food as well, including the Biscuits Benedict special. And afterwards, I had to try a Dinah Finger ($1.59), essentially their own version of the Twinkie, but with far more flavor, and a creamier filling, than the usual processed treat.

I'll return here the next time I am in the area, and urge my readers to check it out as well.

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Thursday Sips & Nibbles

I am back again with a new edition of Thursday Sips & Nibbles, my regular column where I briefly highlight some interesting wine and food items that I have encountered recently.
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1) The Blue Room and neighbor Bon Me are uniting, on Wednesday, July 31 (rain or shine), from 6pm-9pm, for a collaborative pop-up picnic at the scenic Rings Fountain on the Rose F. Kennedy Greenway. Guests are invited to lounge on provided blankets and dine picnic-style on a four-course fusion feast prepped in Bon Me’s newest truck.

The collaborative menu includes:
1970s Chicken Galantine with Modern Farm Slaw (The Blue Room)
Chilled Cucumber Soup Shooter (Bon Me)
Bon Me Sandwich with Sweet + Spicy Chinese Sausage (Bon Me + The Blue Room)
Forbidden Rice Pudding (The Blue Room)

Gluten-free and vegetarian options are available if requested in advance by emailing jenn@bonmetruck.com.

Cost: Tickets cost $25 per person in advance or $30 at the event. Purchase tickets at http://picnicpopup.brownpapertickets.com.

2) Tavolo chef de cuisine Nuno Alves is excited to be taking delivery of a caja china,… a charcoal-fueled cooking box that can roast whole animals outdoors in a 6-foot-long chamber constructed of wood and steel. Culinary historians disagree on its origin but what matters is that caja china cooking requires patience, but results in crisp yet moist meat with little fuss or attention. The caja china’s trial run occurs Wednesday, August 7 at Tavolo’s Porchetta Festival. The porchetta festival features three authentic dishes from the Italian region of Liguria for $25 per person and advance reservations are recommended.  

On the morning of August 7, white-ashed charcoal briquettes will be heaped into the caja china and sealed tight to cook for 5-7 hours with a brined pig from Brambly Farms of Norfolk within. One pig can feed 30 salivating diners generously. Sides might include tiny stuffed peppers, pasta with eggplant, and a pork sausage stuffing fragrant with fennel fronds and seeds.

Tavolo will also hold an annual Gnocchi Fest on Wednesday, August 21. Experience a variety of Venetian recipe gnocchis – from hearty buckwheat versions to delicate egg spheres– combined with local farm vegetables, swordfish, and more. The cost is $25 per person for three courses.

Future Italian festivals coming up are:
Calabrian Hot Pepper Fest on September 4
Apulian Lambrusco Fest on September 18
Tavolo marks its 5 Year Anniversary with a gala party on Sunday, September 22.

3) Chef/Owner Chris Coombs, of Boston Chops, Deuxave and dbar, has teamed up with Smolak Farms “Whim” 2013 to present a dinner on Wednesday, July 31. Whim is a unique “pop up” dining experience held at Smolak Farms every Wednesday evening from July 10 through August 21 where some of New England’s best chefs prepare a three-course dinner in the Smolak Farms Pine Grove. Guests enjoy beer, wine and cocktails and a seated three-course dinner under the tent in the pine grove. Notch Brewing Company will also be on site sampling beer and offering a wide selection of their delicious, local craft beer for purchase.

Coombs’ one time menu will include:
First Course: Cucumber Soup with Marinated Shrimp, Lemon Creme Fraiche, Crouton
Second Course: Two Hour Egg, Orecchiette, Grilled Kale, Summer Squashes, Parmesian
Third Course: House made Sausage, Warm Potato Salad, Basil Pistou, Peach and Sweet Pepper Relish
Fourth Course: Blueberry Cobbler

Check in and cocktails begins at 6 pm and Dinner begins at 7 pm
Cost: $69 per person (includes tax), beverages and gratuity not included. There is one 3-course menu presented by the chef: no substitutions. Dinner is held rain or shine, no refunds after purchase. Wine, beer and soda will be available for purchase. (No BYOB allowed). Dress is casual. Tickets must be purchased in advance at http://www.eventbrite.com/event/6800946815.

4) Rather than the usual Restaurant Week menu, Piattini will be serving a multi-course family-style Italian Wine Dinner on Monday, August 19, 2013 at 6:30pm. Piattini will be joined by Francesco Calderaro from Winebow Boston as they wine and dine guests through an exciting 3-course tour of Italy. For $35 per person (+tax and gratuity), guests will get to try two antipasti and two entrées served family-style, each paired with a different Italian wine. Known for its educational wine program, Piattini and Carderaro will educate guests on the ins and outs of pairing Italian cuisine and wine, and everyone will leave with a wine card detailing the region, tasting notes, and other pertinent information of each poured wine.

MENU:
First course (shared)
Arugula (Seasoned, chopped fresh tomatoes, artichoke hearts, arugula, Parmigiano reggiano, lemon-oil dressing)
-and-
Polpo alla Griglia (Grilled marinated baby octopus, white cannellini bean salad, myer lemon drizzle)
Wine: Argiolas Costamolino Vermentino di Sardegna DOC 2012
Second Course (shared)
Bolognese (Homemade fussilli, traditional meat ragout)
-and-
Stracotto di Manzo (Braised Short ribs, glazed onions, parsnip puree)
Wine: Allegrini Palazzo della Torre 2009 Veneto
Dessert
Vanilla Almond Panna cotta
Wine: Bera Moscato di Asti DOCG 2012
Aromas of fresh grapes, honey, white flowers and orange blossoms.

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Thursday Sips & Nibbles

I am back again with a new edition of Thursday Sips & Nibbles, my regular column where I briefly highlight some interesting wine and food items that I have encountered recently.
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1) Now in its 16th year, Chefs in Shorts brings together a group of the area’s top culinary talent who will fire up the grills and create their favorite dishes during this expansive outdoor, summer-in-the-city barbeque hosted at the Seaport Hotel & World Trade Center. Join some of Boston’s best chefs for an evening of grill-offs, desserts, beer & wine and fun all to benefit Future Chefs, a local non-profit school-to-career program focused in culinary arts. Future Chefs’ mission is to prepare urban youth in Greater Boston for quality early employment and post-secondary education opportunities in the culinary field and to support them in developing a broad base of transferable skills as they transition into the working world.

This year’s confirmed chefs and venues include the following:
Alma Nove & Wahlburgers Paul Wahlberg
Aura & Tamo at the Seaport Hotel Robert Tobin
Backyard Farms Tim Cuniff
Bambara Jay Silva
Battery Park & Sweet Caroline’s Joshua Smith
BOND at the Langham Hotel Mark Sapienza
Brasserie Jo Nicholas Calias
Catalyst William Kovel
Church Jonathan Gilman
Cinquecento Justin Winters
Davio’s Northern Italian Steakhouse Rodney Murillo
Del Frisco’s Double Eagle Steak House Derek Barragan
Flour Corey Johnson & Jeffrey Stevens
Jamaican Me Hungry Eric Campbell
Kick Ass Cupcakes Sara Ross
LaVallee’s Bakery Goods Distributors Andy LaVallee
Lucky’s Lounge Luke Beardslee
Mela Ranveer Brar
Philip R’s Philip Rotondo
Seaport Hotel & World Trade Center Karen Hodsdon & Richard Rayment
Taranta Jose Duarte
Top of the Hub Mark Porcaro
Treat Cupcake Bar Adie Sprague
Tremont 647 Andy Husbands
Union Bar & Grille Keenan Langlois

Where: The Seaport Hotel & World Trade Center,  200 Seaport Boulevard, Boston (along the upper level viaduct)
When: Friday, June 14
VIP/Media Reception: 6:30pm
Main Event: 7pm–9:30pm
Cost: $70 per person (includes admission with complimentary beer, wine and culinary tastings) Tickets: Tickets available online: www.seaportboston.com.

2) Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar has just launched, at each of its 65 locations nationwide, the Fleming’s WiNEPAD™, a custom app on iPad that helps guests navigate the restaurant’s extensive wine list tableside or at the bar. “For our guests, the Fleming’s WiNEPAD™ takes the guessing out of ordering wine,” said National Director of Wine Maeve Pesquera. “We look forward to enhancing the experiences of our guests and taking the intimidation factor out of wine.”

The WiNEPAD™ has easy-to-use, intuitive and interactive software, but it also provides label-specific tasting notes and, in some cases, the story behind the wine. Another unique and differentiating element is the ability for guests to match their current mood with specific varietal categories and tastes, providing a customized experience with the “What’s Your Mood” function. White wine moods range from Fragrant & Fruity to Rich & Elegant, red wine moods include Big & Intense and Rich & Voluptuous, and sweet wine moods feature Sweet & Mouthwatering and Sweet & Powerful. The Mood Matcher function offers more than 10 moods with various wine selections for each to satisfy guests’ ever-changing tastes.

Other standard features including:
--Wine List Tab: Sorts wines in progressive order from lightest to fullest by region, varietal, Fleming’s 100® selections, wines rated at 90+ by Robert Parker Wine, Wine Spectator and Wine Enthusiast and local selections chosen by the location’s wine manager.
--Maeve’s Raves: Presents wines selections recommended by the National Director of Wine Maeve Pesquera.
--Perfect Pairings: Showcases wine and food pairings based on the guests’ menu selection by providing three paired wine options that accentuates complementary flavors. This takes the guesswork out of selecting a glass of wine for each course.
--Spin the Bottle: Provides a fun and adventurous take on ordering wine for the indecisive. The bottle icon spins and lands on a different selection each time.
--Share This Wine: Gives Fleming’s guests the ability to email themselves any wine on the wine list. The email comes to the guest’s inbox complete with their new favorite wine, tasting notes and an image of the label.

3) Tuscan Village, in Salem, New Hampshire, will host their very own cooking school “Scuola Culinaria,” for those wishing to learn and experience true Italian-artisan cooking. Launching Wednesday, May 22, from 6:30pm–9:30pm, the first in the school’s series of classes will launch with “An Evening in Tuscany” featuring celebrity Chef Mary Ann Esposito and the creator of the Tuscan Brands empire, Joe Faro.

The first class, An Evening in Tuscany will consist of a demo class and a 3-course dinner held in Tuscan Kitchen and led by Esposito and Faro in which guests will see each dish demonstrated, followed by the presentation of the dish. Guests will get to interact with Esposito and Faro during the demonstrations. Guests will received an autographed copy of one of Mary Ann Esposito’s books and a Tuscan Market apron as well as recipes from the evening’s dinner for $85 per person (beverages, tax and gratuity not included).

MENU
--ANTIPASTI: Chickpea Meatballs, Roasted Tomato Sauce, Pecorino Toscano Spiedini of Grilled Fig, Robbiola Wrapped in Speck, Vin Cotto Drizzle
--PRIMI: Sweet Potato Gnocchi, Butter Sage & Walnut Sauce Duck Raviolo, Amarena Cherry & Sangiovese Pan Sauce, Candied Hazelnut Crumble
--SECONDI:  Shrimp Amalfi Style Crispy Pork Shank, Braised Peach & Shallot Mostarda, Creamy Ancient Grain Polenta
--DOLCI: Almond Paste Cheesecake, Blackberry Gelato, White Chocolate Drizzle

Tickets for the event are available by calling Tuscan Kitchen at (603) 952-4875, or online at: http://www.tuscanbrands.com/kitchen/cooking-school/

4) Chef Tim & Bronwyn Wiechmann of T.W. Food, an excellent Cambridge restaurant, are opening a new restaurant, Bronwyn. This will be a Central and Eastern European-inspired restaurant, located in Somerville, and will open on Wednesday, May 15. Located at 255 Washington Street, Bronwyn will initially be open for dinner, with brunch and late-night sausage to follow. The restaurant will begin accepting reservations at 617-776-9900 on Saturday, May 11.

The menu will showcase Central and Eastern-European dishes made from the best local ingredients from nearby farms in the Boston area, including Hausbrot (breads), Appetizers, Wurst (sausages), Noodles, Mains, Sides and Desserts. The bakery will offer sour and chewy giant Bretzels with sea salt flakes and artisan breads made with whole grains milled in-house, and the beverage program will highlight Central and Eastern-European selections. Many of the design elements in the restaurant were either handcrafted by Chef Wiechmann or brought back from his travels overseas.

Highlights from the menu include Hand-twisted Bavarian Sausages; Dark Beer Soup with Aged Cheddar Kreplach; Foie Gras Knish with Potato, Prune, and Hazelnut; Spatzle with Emmenthaler, Onion, Asparagus, and Verbena; Bavarian Roast Chicken with citrus-pineapple cure and grilled red cabbage; thin veal “Jagerschnitzel” with foraged mushrooms and walnut; and Riesling Sauerkraut.

5) Lucia Ristorante Owner Donato Frattaroli and Executive Chef Pino Maffeo introduce the next class in the Lucia Winchester cooking series: Pasta Making with Pino. Impress your friends and family with your knowledge of how to make a variety of pastas, taught by Lucia Executive Chef Pino Maffeo. Some topics will include different varieties of pasta, filled pastas- ravioli and tortellini, as well as recipes and cooking techniques.

When: Wednesday, May 22, from 7p.m.-9 p.m.
Cost: $50 for the public (and includes a meal after class)
Students can sign up and pay at host station before class date or pay by credit card by phone. For more information or to book a spot, please call (781) 729-0515.

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Thursday Sips & Nibbles

I am back again with a new edition of Thursday Sips & Nibbles, my regular column where I briefly highlight some interesting wine and food items that I have encountered recently.
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1) On Tuesday, April 9, at 7pm, Legal Sea Foods in Park Square will host a wine dinner with Jordan Winery, a Sonoma County-based winery that specializes in producing Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay. Legal Sea Foods will team up Jordan Winery’s Assistant Winemaker, Maggie Kruse, to host a four-plus-course dinner featuring signature cuisine paired with choices from their vine.

The menu will be presented as follows:

HORS D’OEUVRES
Scallop Tiradito* Al Aji Limo, Micro Cilantro, Choclo
Oysters on the Half Shell, Fuji Apple Mignonette
Tempura Lobster Bites, Sweet & Sour Aioli
Jordan Chardonnay, Alexander Valley, 2010
FIRST COURSE
Crab Meat Tartare in Salsa Verde (Green Apple & Ginger Vinaigrette)
Jordan Chardonnay, Alexander Valley, 2011
SECOND COURSE
Mesquite Wood Grilled Tuna Steak* (Creamy Hedgehog Mushroom Risotto, Blackberry Chutney)
Jordan Cabernet Sauvignon, Alexander Valley, 2008
THIRD COURSE
Herb Crusted Lamb Chop* (Black Truffle Mashed Potato, Grilled Ramps)
Jordan Cabernet Sauvignon, Alexander Valley, 2004
CHEESE COURSE
Aged Vermont Dandy, Grafton 3 Year Aged Cheddar, Maple Wood Aged Cheddar (Grilled Francese, Cherry Compote, Dark Chocolate Shavings)
Jordan Cabernet Sauvignon, Alexander Valley, 2002

Cost: $95 per person (excludes tax & gratuity)
Reservations required by calling 617-530-9397

2) On Saturday, April 6, Horizons for Homeless Children will host their annual Spring Event, A Night For Tomorrow, followed by the first annual Spring Event After-Party. Starting at 9:30 p.m., guests can come enjoy a fun-filled evening with the lively Horizons’ Young Professionals Group. The evening will feature late-night drinks, dessert, dancing and views of the skyline from the beautiful State Room.

All proceeds from the After-Party (as well at the annual Spring Event) will directly benefit Horizons for Homeless Children.
COST: Tickets are $75 each
WHERE: State Room 60 State Street, 33rd Floor Boston
FOR TICKETS: www.horizonsforhomeless.org/springevent

3) For the first time ever, Tavolo will open its doors on Easter Sunday, with service from 1pm-8pm. In addition to its regular Italianate menu, Tavolo will feature a variety of a la carte brunch and dinner specials, some of which will appear on the new spring menu. Chef de Cuisine Nuno Alves loves cooking with rabbit, which his family raised and ate as he grew up with 10 siblings in Somerville. Nuno has also become something of a local expert on American lamb.

On the Tavolo menu Sunday, March 31 and beyond:
Braised Rabbit Ragu over Housemade Gnocchi
Truffled Egg or Bacala Pizza
Asparagus and Bacon Salad
Spring Pea Soup
Ligurian Whole Trout Bourride
House-Butchered Lamb Two Ways: smoked breast / roast leg
Confit Artichoke Tart in whole grain crust, inspired by Maria Speck's Ancient Grains for Modern Meals Eggs and Peppers over Polenta
Squid Ink Linguini with Cockles and Tomatoes
Rhubarb Panna Cotta

4) Portsmouth & The Seacoast Restaurant Week will be held from April 4-13, with a three course Lunch at $16.95 and a three course Dinner at $29.95. At least 49 restaurants will be participating this year. Doug Bates, the President of the Greater Portsmouth Chamber of Commerce stated: "Every year we welcome new restaurants to the program and new dining guests to the Seacoast. We thank our locally owned and operated restaurants, chefs and farms for providing incredible product at a tremendous value as part of Restaurant Week. This year we are delighted that Portsmouth's reputation as a dining destination is being recognized nationally, with our chefs earning national honors and acclaim."

Bates is referring to two local chefs, Chef Evan Mallett of Black Trumpet Bistro, a James Beard Award semi-finalist and Chef Matt Louis of Moxy, a Food & Wine Magazine People's Best New Chef 2013 Nominee. I previously raved about Moxy and awarded it my Favorite New Hampshire Restaurant of 2012.

A trend for Restaurant Week this year is an expanded offering of Gluten Free and Vegetarian menus. There are over a dozen restaurants also offering gluten free and/or vegetarian menu options. They include The River House, Blue Moon Evolution, Brazo, Cava, Common Man, Green Monkey, Martingale Wharf, Moxy, Tulsi and more. You can find Restaurant Week menus for about 70% of the participating restaurants on the website.

Interestingly, some of the restaurants offer even better deals that the usual. For example, The Portsmouth Gas Light Co., B.G.'s Boathouse and Cafe Nostimo each offer a complimentary glass of wine or beer. The Great American Grill offers a free glass of House Wine. Cava offers a four course dinner rather than the usual three courses. Tio Juan's Margaritas Mexican Restaurant and Grill 28 are offering their three course meals all day for only $16.95. So why not give Portsmouth & The Seacoast Restaurant Week a try?

5) On Easter Sunday, March 31, Turner Fisheries is offering a special brunch from 11am-3pm. For $69 per person, ($23 for children ages 5 to 12, under 5 years no charge) guests can enjoy a chef attended carving station, both a cold a hot buffet, and a plethora of desserts. Guests can indulge in a few of Turner classics such as the Clam Chowder and the New England Seafood Harvest complete with northern shrimp cocktail, cape littlenecks and island creek oyster. There are also traditional Easter brunch classics with a “Turner twist” including Crab Cake Benedict and Carved Lamb Chops with caramelized onion rolls from the chef’s station.

For the full menu selection, click here. For reservations please call: 617-424-7425

6) On Tuesday, April 23, The Beehive presents a tribute to the “father of jazz,” Louis Armstrong with an evening of live performance featuring some of his most iconic work. Join The Beehive as musician Eric Bloom and guests take the stage to honor one of the most legendary musicians of all time.

Widely remembered for his 1968 hit song “What a Wonderful World,” Armstrong was best known for his superb trumpet skills and iconic raspy voice. He pioneered the jazz genre-- shifting its focus from collaborative group performances to solo performances with scatting and singing, and was one of the first African American musicians to make his mark on the music scene.

From 8pm-12am, the music of the great Louis Armstrong will take over The Beehive as current jazz musician Eric Bloom plays some favorite tunes. Bloom broke into the jazz scene at the young age of 17 when he was chosen as a soloist for the All Eastern jazz band that performed at Carnegie Hall. In 2009 he began playing with highly-acclaimed singer-songwriter Diane Birch and opened for legendary musicians and fresh pop icons including James Morrison, Mat Kearny and Nick Jonas, and appeared on several national TV Shows including the Today Show, the Jimmy Kimmel Show and the David Letterman Show. In 2011 Bloom started playing with two critically-acclaimed funk bands Soulive and Lettuce, and since then he has performed with Dr. John, Pharohe Monch, Billy Martin and Talib Kweli to name a few.

No cover charge, cash bar, reservations recommended.

7) Wines will be poured and cuisine will be served on Saturday, April 20, from 12pm-5pm, at The Wine ConneXtion, located in North Andover, as they welcome guests to A Tasting for the Ages. Wine expert Aldo Rafanelli, from the famed House of Antinori will pour select wines as guests learn about the 600-year-old family dynasty, while complimentary Italian fare will be provided by North Shore favorite, Salvatore’s Andover, for all to enjoy.

With wine-making roots dating all the way back to family members in the 1385 Winemakers Guild of Florence, The House of Antinori has been in the business for over six centuries. Owning vineyards in Chianti Classico, Bolgheri, Montalcino, Montepulciano, Orvieto, and Washington State, the family has honored Italian traditions across multiple generations. Joining the family in 1987 as the sole U.S. representative, Aldo Rafanelli of Ste. Michelle’s Estate has carried the Antinori tradition overseas and will be at the Wine ConneXtion to guide guests with his passion and extensive knowledge, while providing them with rare insight into his 26 years with the company.

Walk-ins are encouraged and welcome all day! The event is Free to the public. Please note: Must be 21 or older.

Read More

Thursday Sips & Nibbles

I am back again with a new edition of Thursday Sips & Nibbles, my regular column where I briefly highlight some interesting wine and food items that I have encountered recently.
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1) A couple of the restaurants celebrating with Easter Sunday specials on March 31 include:

Aura at the Seaport Hotel
(From 11am-3pm)
Easter Brunch Buffet: $55 per adult; $13 per child (ages 5-14); complimentary for children under-5
There will be an Easter Brunch Buffet ideal for the whole family, compete with a visit from the Easter Bunny, an Easter Egg Hunt and festive crafts with Samara Lamm of The Kids Place 4 Fun. Chef Robert Tobin’s culinary offerings include the following: Scrambled Eggs; Eggs Benedict (Canadian bacon, muffin, hollandaise); Ricotta Blintzes; French Toast; Pancakes (caramelized bananas, strawberry compote, Chantilly cream); Pork Sausage; Chicken-Apple Sausage; Bacon; Granola & Berry Parfait (non-fat vanilla yogurt, granola, mixed berries); Smoked Salmon; Fruit & Cheese; Breads & Pastries; Young Greens (balsamic vinaigrette); Caesar Salad (shaved parmesan cheese); New England Clam Chowder; Quiche Lorraine (ham, caramelized onions, Swiss cheese); Leek & Truffle Quiche; Ravioli (wild mushroom & goat cheese sauce); Macaroni & Cheese; Roasted Salmon (creamed leeks, caper butter); Shrimp Cocktail (cocktail sauce, lemon, tarragon aioli); Honey Glazed Ham (pommery mustard sauce); Leg of Lamb (tamarind, raita sauce); Roasted Potatoes; Potato Puree; Green Beans (tomato confit); and, Spring Vegetables (chive butter). For dessert, Pastry Chef Karen Hodsdon will dish out a variety of cakes, pies, mousses and mini pastries alongside a chocolate fountain.

Towne Stove and Spirits
(From 11am-10pm)
Specials: a la carte pricing
Culinary Director Lydia Shire and Executive Chef Mario Capone will be dishing out a series of delectable specials this Easter Sunday. To start, there is Asparagus Soup (spring garlic flan, truffle foam - $9). For the entrée, the duo will serve up Rosemary Charred Leg of Lamb (baby artichokes, white polena, mint gremolata - $22). To finish off with dessert, there is a Lemon Layer Cake (vanilla & strawberry preserve - $10).

2) The Massachusetts Affiliate of Susan G. Komen for the Cure® proudly presents the 5th annual “Chefs for the Cure” culinary event on Thursday, April 11 at The Residences at W Boston. “Chefs for the Cure” is an innovative and inspiring tasting-style event which features the opportunity to sample gourmet cuisine from some of the finest local chefs. Featured this year will be:

· Jose Duarte, Taranta
· Joanne Chang, Myers + Chang
· Keenan Langlois, Sterling’s
· Michael Zentner, Gaslight Brasserie au Coin
· Brian Reyelt, Citizen’s Public House and Oyster Bar
· Ben Lacy, Tastings Bar and Bistro
· Justin Winters, Cinquecento
· Mitchell Maxwell, Maxwell’s 148
· Peppino (Shingara Singh), Da Vinci’s
· Nicole Coady, Fixx Chocolates
· Rich Garcia, 606 Congress
· Alberto Cabre, Casa B
· Erin Erler, Cakes by Erin
· Larry Kessel, CTCA
· Michelle DeSalvo, Johnson & Wales
· Domingo-Martin Barreras, mixologist at Market

The evening will also include a silent auction, live raffle giveaways and a VIP hour featuring a live cooking demonstration. General admission tickets are available for $125 and provide admission to the grand tasting and include valet parking. VIP tickets, which also include a private reception, cooking demonstration and tasting with chef Jose Duarte, are available for $175.

For more information or to purchase tickets, visit www.komenmass.org/chefs.

When: Thursday, April 11.
VIP Demonstration – 6:00pm
Tasting & Silent Auction – 7:00pm

3) On April 4, Neurofibromatosis Northeast (NF Northeast) will host their 25th Anniversary Celebration at Cruiseport Boston’s Black Falcon Cruise Terminal in the Seaport District. Emceed by Boston radio legend Ron Della Chiesa with appearances by NECN’s “TV Diner with Billy and Jenny” stars Billy Costa and Jenny Johnson, this silver anniversary charitable event will feature tastings from some of Boston’s best restaurants as well as a fashion show with looks provided by Ted Baker London.

To honor this quarter-century milestone, the NF Northeast organization will forego their signature Table for TEN event this year in favor of this one-time, spectacular fete that will provide support and research funds to people with neurofibromatosis (NF), a prevalent genetic disorder of the nervous system that causes tumors to form on the nerves anywhere in or on the body at any time.

Rallying for this worthy cause, family and friends of people affected by NF will hit the catwalk in fashions by Ted Baker London (201 Newbury Street, Boston). The theme of the fashion show is “travel-wear,” aptly chosen for the event’s cruise-centric locale. The models, men and women of the NF Northeast community and its Beauty Mark Nation initiative, will don temporary tattoos bearing the logo of the campaign. Guests at the event will also be invited to get (temporarily) “inked up” in order to show solidarity for NF patients and to raise awareness of an early indicator of NF, café au lait “beauty marks” on babies.

In addition to showcasing an unparalleled fashion show, guests will enjoy an open bar and savory bites from some of the city’s leading venues including: 75 Chestnut; 75 on Liberty Wharf; Anthony’s Pier 4; Artu; Brasserie Jo; Franklin Café; Legal Harborside; Lucia Ristorante; Taranta; Top of the Hub; and, Union Oyster House.

Long time NF Northeast supporter Montilio’s Baking Company will provide sweet tastes during the dessert reception which will also feature a special tribute video and live auction as hosted by “TV Diner with Billy and Jenny” duo, Billy Costa and Jenny Johnson, with items graciously donated by Seaport Hotel & World Trade Center, Himmel Hospitality Group, Boston Celtics, Strega Waterfront, Columbus Hospitality Group, Revere Hotel Boston Common and Ted Baker London, among many others.

This event is hosted on Thursday, April 4, from 6pm-10pm. At 6pm, guests will enjoy a cocktail hour and peruse silent auction items. At 7pm, the Ted Baker London fashion show will begin. At 7:15pm, the chef stations will open and guests will sample bites from famed eateries. At 8:15pm, guests will be seated for dessert accompanied by the live auction.

To reserve online ($125 per individual ticket) and for more information, please visit www.nfincne.org. For sponsorship opportunities ($2,500 - $25,000), please contact NF Northeast’s Sonja Nathan at 781.272.9936 or snathan@nfincne.org.

Neurofibromatosis Northeast has provided research grants to scientists at leading institutions around the country. NF Northeast is proud to have been the impetus behind the creation of The Harvard Medical School Center for NF and Allied Disorders (CNfAD), a virtual center whose mission is to define the pathogenetic mechanisms that cause NF1, NF2 and related disorders. NF Northeast is the leading resource in the northeast for patients and families who live with NF, a genetic condition that causes tumors to form on nerves anywhere in or on the body. Neurofibromatosis is more common than cystic fibrosis and muscular dystrophy combined.

4) This spring Tuscan Village, the culinary playground which houses both the Tuscan Kitchen restaurant and the Italian-based artisanal marketplace Tuscan Market in Salem, NH, will be hosting its first ever Easter Celebration on March 24. Guests are invited in for Easter activities for all ages including sampling at Tuscan Market, an Easter egg hunt and a visit by the Easter Bunny himself!

The festivities kick off at 10am on Sunday morning March 24 with an official visit from the Easter Bunny himself. Peter Rabbit will be roaming Tuscan Village piazza from 10am-1pm posing for photos with customers (customers should bring their own cameras) handing out candy and hiding eggs in preparation for an 11am Easter egg hunt. Children of all ages can seek out and find beautifully colored eggs filled with candy and prizes and every child in attendance will receive free gelato cards to try the wonderful handcrafted Italian treat!

“This event speaks to what we’re trying to create here on the property. A village isn’t made up of buildings; it’s a community that comes together. We plan on hosting many more events in the future and making this a meeting place where people can spend the day,” said Joe Faro, Owner of Tuscan Kitchen and Tuscan Market

Complimentary sampling will be available all day so customers can try and discover the large selection of amazing artisanal products including: fresh meats and produce, cheeses, wine and sweets before purchasing or placing orders for their Easter dinner. Customers can also choose from a variety of custom made Easter chocolate eggs made by hand at Tuscan Market. When it’s time to eat, Tuscan Kitchen will also be open all day serving its award-winning fare including a Sunday Pranzo and dinner menu!

5) Guests are invited to celebrate Easter Sunday, March 31, from 11:30am-3pm, with the entire family at Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar. In addition to serving their regular menu, Fleming’s will offer a special three-course brunch menu for adults and children where each party will receive a $25 dining card valid for a future visit. There are also three festive specialty cocktails available: Bellapolitan (Stoli, Solerno, lime juice, Monin Blood Orange, simple syrup, orange twist - $8.95); Scottish Beauty (Glenfiddich, blueberries, raspberries, agave nectar, orange juice, lemon juice - $9.95); and, Blood Orange Mimosa (Solerno, orange juice, Monin Blood Orange, Mionetto prosecco, orange wheel - $7.95).

The culinary experience begins with a choice of three appetizers including: Lobster Bisque (sherry cream, lobster garnish); Modern Caesar (hearts of Romaine, parmesan, fried capers, crisp prosciutto chips); or, Fresh Seasonal Fruits (Moscato d’Asti, mint leaves). Up next, there is a choice of four entrées: Fleming’s Signature Eggs Benedict (choice of sliced filet or smoked salmon, served atop a toasted Wolferman’s English muffin with wilted arugula, béarnaise sauce); Baked Brioche French Toast with a Walnut Crisp (pan-style brioche French toast layered in vanilla and orange custard with a brown sugar, butter and walnut streusel, served with maple blueberry syrup, Chantilly cream, grilled sausage); Prime Rib with a Trio of Sauces (slow-cooked herb and garlic-crusted prime rib, natural au jus, creamed horseradish sauce and horseradish mustard sauce); or, Fleming’s Egg Strata (eggs, cream, vegetables and cheese, baked fluffy and served with pico de gallo, crumbled Chevre cheese and choice of spicy grilled shrimp skewers or slow-roasted filet). Each entrée is served with family-style sides, Fleming’s Smashed Potatoes O’Brien (baked potato, crumbled and fried crisp, tossed with peppers, onions, parsley and seasonings) and Ginger & Orange Baby Carrots (heirloom carrots sautéed with honey oil, citrus and garlic). The brunch adventure ends with a choice of three desserts: White Chocolate Bread Pudding (bourbon crème anglaise); Crème Brûlée (creamy Tahitian vanilla bean custard served with fresh seasonal berries); or, Walnut Turtle Pie (housemade caramel, walnuts and chocolate baked in a chocolate pie crust).

COST: $36.95 per adult; $17.95 per child (under-12)
For reservations, please call 617-292-0808

6) To commemorate the historic battles of Lexington and Concord, Legal Sea Foods in Park Square will host their next Legal Holiday in honor of Patriots’ Day. Hosted a few days early on April 10, at 6:30pm, the Legal Sea Foods team will pour and dish a trio of wines and small plates that celebrate spring.

The three-course pairing menu will be presented as follows in Park Square’s 10,000 bottle wine cellar:

FIRST COURSE
Early Spring Pasta (sautéed shrimp, charred ramps, crimini mushrooms, cherry tomatoes)
Bethel Heights Pinot Gris, Oregon, 2009
SECOND COURSE
Grilled East Coast Haddock (roasted beets salad, dill & orange gremolatta)
Capcanes "Mas Donis" Rosat, Montsant, 2011
DESSERT COURSE
Spring Berries Crepe (rosa regale brachetto d'aqui zabaglione)
Michele Chiarlo "Nivole" Moscato d'Asti, Piedmont, 2011

COST: $35 per person
Reservation required by calling 617-530-9397

7) Lucia Ristorante Owner Donato Frattaroli and Executive Chef Pino Maffeo introduce the next class in the Lucia Winchester cooking series: Artisan Pizza Making. The second installment of “Cooking Classes with Chef Pino and Donato,” this time highlighting Artisan Pizza Making. This class is the perfect opportunity to gain insight on the tips and tricks to making Lucia’s famous dough, and have the opportunity to experiment with different toppings, such as a guest favorite, Pizza del Buongustaio (white pizza with mozzarella, potatoes, pancetta, gorgonzola, and fresh rosemary).

The Artisan Pizza Making Class will be held on Wednesday, March 27, from 7pm-9pm.
Cost: $55 per person
For reservations and/or more information, please call (781) 729-0515.

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Thursday Sips & Nibbles

I am back again with a new edition of Thursday Sips & Nibbles, my regular column where I briefly highlight some interesting wine and food items that I have encountered recently.
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1) On Thursday, March 21, at 6:30pm, Legal Sea Foods in Park Square will host a wine dinner with Chehalem, the popular Oregon-based winery specializing in both red and white varietals. Legal Sea Foods will team up Chehalem’s winemaker, Wynne Peterson-Nedry, to host a four-plus-course dinner featuring signature cuisine paired with choices from their vine. Chehalem, the local Calapooia Indian word meaning “gentle land” or “valley of flowers,” prides itself on purely reflecting what its vineyard has produced.

The menu will be presented as follows:

HORS D’OEUVRES
Oysters* on the Half Shell, Green Apple and Poblano Vinaigrette
Seared Sea Scallop Tartlets, Curried Leek Jam
Lobster Spring Rolls, Citrus Ginger Glaze
Chehalem “Three Vineyard” Pinot Gris, Willamette Valley, 2011
FIRST COURSE
Seared Halibut Fillet (Mussels and Fennel Cream Sauce)
Chehalem “INOX” Chardonnay, Willamette Valley, 2010
SECOND COURSE
Poached Maine Lobster (Tarragon Nage, Baby Mache)
Chehalem “Ian’s Reserve” Stoller Vineyard Chardonnay, Dundee Hills, 2008
THIRD COURSE
Hickory Wood Grilled Veal Chop (Morel Mushrooms, Roasted Garlic Mashed Potato)
Chehalem “Three Vineyard” Pinot Noir, Willamette Valley, 2010
Chehalem “Ridgecrest” Pinot Noir, Ribbon Ridge, 2010
CHEESE COURSE
Morbier, Port Salut, MouCo ColoRouge (Cherry Compote, Toast Points)
Chehalem “Reserve” Pinot Noir, Ribbon Ridge, 2009

Cost: $85 per person (excludes tax & gratuity)
Reservation required by calling 617-530-9397

2) Darryl's Corner Bar & Kitchen (DCBK) hosts a fundraiser called “Big Star on Bar”, which showcases a community figure who serves as the "Startender" of the evening, mixing a specialty cocktail to raise money for the charity of his or her choice.

On Monday, March 11, from 5:30pm-8:30pm, Dr. Tiffany Cooper Gueye will be behind the DCBK bar, making BELLinis with 100 percent of her tips going toward BELL. There will also be a surprise raffle over the course of the evening. There is no cover charge and the event is open to the public. For reservations, please call 617-536-1100.

3) Haru’s Boston location is bringing back its popular promotion from last summer: Mystery Envelopes. From March 1 until May 1, Haru will once again offer its guests a chance to win a prize every visit they make.

Instructions to play: simply visit Haru Boston from March 1 through May 1 to receive your mystery envelope (while supplies last). DO NOT OPEN THE ENVELOPE. On your next visit to Haru Boston on or before May 20 (must be different day than when mystery envelope was received), present the still-sealed mystery envelope to a manager or server to see what treasure awaits. Prizes include $10 and $25 Haru gift certificates, complimentary sushi rolls, $100 Amex gift cards and a grand prize of $500 in Amex gift cards. Even guests who don’t win a prize won’t leave empty-handed (so to speak): holders of non-winning envelopes will receive a complimentary order of edamame as a gift.

The more often you frequent Haru Boston, the more envelopes you can collect so come often and come hungry [subject to limit of (1) envelope per person/household per (12) hour period].

More Info: No Purchase Necessary. Must be 18 or older. Most participants will receive complimentary order of edamame. Odds of winning a prize are approximately 1:6. Subject to Official Rules posted at Haru Boston. 

4) Eddie Huang, chef and owner of the critically-acclaimed BaoHaus in New York’s East Village, is bringing his beloved Taiwanese and Chinese cuisine to Boston, joining Big Night Entertainment Group’s Executive Chef Kevin Long in the Empire kitchen to create a special feast. Co-hosted by Long and Huang, the Thursday, March 14 event will kick off a visiting celebrity chef series showcasing Chef Long’s talents alongside some of today’s top chefs.

The $50 dinner will be a unique opportunity to experience Huang’s and Long’s cuisine in a stylish setting at an incredibly accessible price. Combining Empire’s hip atmosphere and lavish cuisine with BaoHaus’ authentic neighborhood feel, guests will receive an experience unlike any other. The menu will include items from Huang’s proprietary menu, including the Chairman Bao, the Uncle Jesse Bao and Coffin Bao Fried Chicken with Spicy, Tingly Condensed Milk, alongside signature items like Oxtail Soup with Heirloom Tomatoes and Mung Bean Noodles and Pi Dan Tofu.

Chef Huang – a former lawyer, stand-up comic, author, blogger and media personality – will also be signing his recently published memoir. “Fresh off the Boat” will also be included in the price of dinner. (Books will also be available for purchase and signing to Empire patrons who don’t attend the dinner.)

For reservations, please call 617-295-0001.

5) Irish eyes will be smiling when The Beehive presents their 6th annual St. Patrick’s Day festivities on Sunday, March 17 from 5pm-1am. St. Patrick’s Day at The Beehive means an evening of authentic entertainment including performances from Boston-based and lively Irish music performers, Irish inspired à la carte food & drink specials from Kilbeggan Irish Whiskey, Tyronnell Irish Whiskey and Connemara Irish Whiskey, and an evening like only The Beehive can create.

The claim from inside the ‘hive’ is that while there will be plenty of surprises, this will not be your typical Irish fest. “No green beer…but what we are planning is a sophisticated evening of amazing Irish comfort food and authentic, world-class, Irish entertainment for a mature audience,” said Co-Owner, Jack Bardy.

This year at the ‘hive,’ a “special guest” performance will kick of the night of Irish filled festivities at 5:30pm. Husband-wife duo Matt & Shannon Heaton will then bring their shared musical experience and love for Boston’s Irish music scene to the stage at 8:00PM. Boston-based, Matt has made his musical home in Boston’s Irish scene while Shannon has co-founded Boston’s Celtic Music Fest and teaches for Boston’s Comhaltas. Their modern take on traditional centuries-old Irish songs, which features Irish flute- and guitar-driven tunes and traditional Irish-style singing, will bring out emotion and Irish pride from the Irish and non-Irish alike. Matt and Shannon’s entertaining and organic onstage banter is almost good as the music (almost)!

In addition to serving the regular menu, Chef Rebecca Newell has created several à la carte specials including: Corned Beef & "Cabbage" Flatbread with Sauerkraut & Cheese, Finaan Haddie Smoked Fish & Chips with Malt Vinegar Aioli & Slaw and Grilled Lamb Chops with Colcannon Mashed Potatoes just to name a few. Along with The Beehive’s regular libations, the bar will mix traditional Irish cocktails with the best of Kilbeggan’s Irish Whiskey, Tyronnell’s 10 year Port Cask and Connemara’s 12 year Single Malt.


Dinner reservations are recommended, no cover charge, both the upstairs and downstairs bars will be open for service.

6) This March experience wines from the different regions of the world at Tuscan Kitchen’s weekly Regional Wine Tasting Series. Every Wednesday from 6pm-8:30pm, Tuscan Brands’ Wine Director Joe Comforti will lead guests on a special tour as they sip and swirl their way through different wine regions across the globe. For only $20 per person ( tax & gratuity not included) guests will enjoy various regional wine samples accompanied by Salumi e Formaggi and artisanal Hand-crafted Breads from Tuscan Market bakery. Held upstairs in The Wine Bar, this series is the perfect excuse to relax midweek while enjoying wine from distinguished wine producers.

March 6th, 2013: Tuscany, Italy
March 13th, 2013: A World Tour
March 20th, 2013: Piedmont, Italy
March 27th, 2013: A Tour of Italy

Reservations accepted for parties of seven or more. Call-ahead seating is available for parties smaller than seven. Simply call (603) 952-4875 before leaving your home or office and if on a wait, you will be added to wait list ensuring priority seating. Upon arrival, please check in with the host at the front door. *There may be an additional wait when you arrive.

7) Since its opening in fall 2012, Belly Wine Bar in Kendall Square has quickly gained a following as a destination for offbeat, eccentric and hard-to-find European wines. This spring, the team at Belly will introduce some playful new food offerings for groups of all sizes that will guarantee a full belly and a seat at the restaurant (these munchies are reservation-only). So shake up your typical vino and cheese duo with gooey fondue, fried chicken and wine pairings and Sardinian lamb arm + a leg-style!

Seasonal special menus include:

Fondue for Your Crew
$14 per person
February - May
Get your dunk on with dip-able brussels sprouts, EVOO roasted potatoes, grilled focaccia, endive and apples, all ready for plunging into a gooey bowl of Spring Brook Farm Reading Raclette, Emmentaler and Gruyere.

Arm + A Leg: Lamb Jam
$62 per person
Begins March 1
Chef Robert Grant’s signature whole-animal spread switches gears for spring with a Sardinian lamb feast. Belly up to communal tables with your friends for four courses of baller carnivorous fare like lamb neck with salsa verde and fregola sarda, sticky glazed short ribs, whole wood-roasted leg of lamb, and Pecorino Calcagno with honey and nuts.
Reservations: Available for groups of 4-12 people. Please give at least 48 hours’ notice. All Arm + A Leg reservations must be made at: http://www.bellywinebar.com/reservations.

Fried Chicken and Orange Wine
$25 per person; $50 per person with flight of wine
May - September
KFC Belly-style: Killer Fried Chicken and Orange wine. A bucket of fried chicken (hot or cold), flight of orange vino and all the bird-loving extras (biscuits, pickles and citrusy fennel + radicchio slaw) enjoyed with your friends in your flip-flops on the patio.
Reservations: Available for groups of 4-8 people on the patio or in the dining room. Online reservations available beginning May 1.

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Tuscan Market: A Worthy Italian Destination

There is a new Italian market located in Salem, New Hampshire but is it worthy of your patronage? Is it too expensive as some consumers have alleged? Does it live up to its potential?

Last September, I attended a preview event for Tuscan Market, a new Italian food market that eventually opened in November. You should read my prior review for background on this new endeavor. As I said then, "I think the concept behind the Tuscan Market is excellent, a one stop destination for great, fresh Italian food and wine." I was impressed with what I saw and tasted, and believed that Tuscan Market had great potential. Obviously, I wanted to follow up, to determine if it lived up to that potential once it opened to the public.

Recently, I visited the Tuscan Market for the first time since it officially opened in November, having given it a couple months to work out any initial kinks. In short, Tuscan Market has lived up to its potential and is worthy of my highest recommendation. It is a one-stop shopping destination for a diverse variety of Italian foods, wines, ingredients, equipment and much more. Some of the foods are prepared on premises, such as bread and pasta, while others are imported from Italy. There is also a small café where you can grab a bite to eat, such as pizzas and paninos. Having all of these delicious items available in a single location is convenient.

As you enter your store, to your left are the cashiers and just past them is a section of kitchen supplies, from coffee makers to pizza stones and cookware. You can find wine glasses, cork screws and other wine-related paraphernalia. In a different area of the store, there is also a table of Italian cookbooks and magazines. So it is not all just food and wine.

Past the kitchen supplies it the wine room and their selection currently includes about 220 wines, with more coming. Most of the wines are displayed on the above shelves but there is also a small cooler holding white and sparkling wines. Most of the wines are Italian though you will find others from all over the world, from California to France, and the choices range from big producers to small, more artisan ones. Wine tastings are held on Saturdays, from 11:30am-3pm. Prices are reasonable and some even seem low compared to other wine stores.  

These shelves held a variety of packaged foods, many imported from Italy, including dry pasta to tea, tuna fish to sauces. Once again, the prices are reasonable, and some products are even lower than what you will find at large supermarkets. At this point, I am starting to realize that those people who have claimed the market is too expensive might not have been correct.

There are refrigerated coolers holding homemade frozen pastas and other items. Prices also seem very reasonable and you can get 8 big ravioli, such as cheese or mushrooms, for only $5-$6, while lobster raviolis cost $14.39.

Want a homemade sauce? Check out their 16 ounce packages, including such varieties as San Marzano Tomato sauce $5, Bolognese $7, and Wild Boar Ragu $7. If you don't have enough time to make your own sauce, but don't want to use a jar sauced, then these fresh made sauce are an excellent option. And then are less expensive than some jar sauces too.

Ah, the breads! You can watch them baking fresh bread in their ovens and the smell is intoxicating. They had seven types of bread available, including Ciabatta, Focaccia, Roasted Garlic, Rustic Olive, Seven Grain, Cranberry Walnut, and Pane Pugliese, all reasonably priced from $3.99-$5.99. Their Roasted Garlic is amazing, with large garlic cloves inside the bread. I bought a loaf on my visit and it had just come out of the oven. It was even too hot for them to slice. Beware, you might need to buy two loaves as one might not survive your drive, as you decided to tear off a piece and devour it while it is warm.

They have a good selection of cheeses, though not as extensive as you will find in some other larger markets and shops. However, there are plenty of excellent options and prices are comparable to other cheese vendors.

There is also a good selection of cured meats, sausages, hams and such. Prices are also competitive, such as the Prosciutto di Parma at $16.99/pound. Get some wine, bread, cheese and cured meats and you have the makings for a great meal.

Several varieties of fresh pasta were available, including: pappardelle $5.99/lb, orecchiette $5.99/lb, tagliatelle $5.99/lb, and capellini $5.99/lb. I have tried a couple of the pastas, and they both tasted great, with a nice texture. For two people, a pound of pasta may be sufficient for two meals, making the pasta a great value.

Their fresh filled pastas include items like Short Rib Tortelli $8.99/lb, Mushroom Ravioli $7.99/lb, Butternut Squash Cappellacci $6.99/lb, Quattro Formaggi Ravioli $6.99/lb and Maine Lobster Ravioli $19.99/lb. I tried the Short Rib Tortelli and they were delicious, with plenty of moist, tender meat inside a compelling pasta triangle. They did not skimp on the fillings. Again, you get plenty of pasta in a pound, and the prices are very reasonable.

There is a small, but good, selection of meats. You can find a greater selection at a butcher shop but there are plenty of fine options here. You will find beef options such as Filet $22.99/lb and Aged Ribeye $12.99/lb, and prices are comparable to numerous other markets.

There were three different Sausages available, priced $5.99-$6.99/lb, and once again a reasonable price. You will also find another case with packages of marinated meats, from chicken to lamb. Overall, you have plenty of meat choices.

The Market sells a variety of freshly prepared items such as lasagna, arancini, eggplant parmigiana, chicken parmigiana, meatballs and more. The food looks enticing and comes in good-sized portions.

There was not much produce available but that is likely a seasonal issue.

Presently, they sell very little seafood, except for shrimp, but they are working on changing that. Sometime in the near future, they will likely have a much better selection of seafood available.

At their cafe, you have several options and nearly everything is $10 or less. Above, you can see their Panino sandwiches ($8.99), which are pressed to order and are good-sized, and freshly made that day. They were making sandwiches and putting them in the case while I was there. They also have Soup and Salads available, most salads costing $6 except for the Antipasto at $9.

You can also order Pizza, which I tasted and very much enjoyed during the preview event, or a pasta dish with your choice of pasta, sauce, and finish. Prices are reasonable, making lunch very affordable.

There are plenty of dessert options, from Cupcakes ($2.50) to Tiramisu ($2.99), from Cakes to Cookies. You can buy entire cakes or just slices. They even sell gluten free baked goods, though those are not made on premises as they lack a gluten free kitchen.

Or you can try some of the delectable Gelato, coming in a wide range of flavors, priced from Small ($2.69) to Large ($4.69). The gelato is made on the premises and comes in many compelling flavors.

Service was great, the employees all being very pleasant, courteous and helpful. Free food samples are available, enticing you to buy more. Overall, I found the prices here to be very reasonable, and even lower than other food markets. One must also remember that fresh, artisan food products may sometimes cost more than cheap, mass-produced, prepackaged items. However, they are usually worth the higher price. I love the diversity of food and wine available here, especially as all of it can be found under one roof. The Tuscan Market receives my highest recommendation and you should make the easy drive up Rt.93 to Salem to shop here. I will certainly return soon and hope to see you there.

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2012: Favorite Restaurants

What were some of my favorite restaurants of the past year?

I have already posted several of my drink-related Favorites' lists and and now I want to concentrate on my Favorite Restaurants of the past year. This is certainly not a complete list but it is more a sampling of memorable matters I have experienced and/or posted about over the past year. You will even find Favorites from outside Massachusetts as I traveled some this past year.

There is also a section later in this post called Consistent Favorites, and it includes a list of a number of restaurants which have been my favorites for subsequent years. Restaurants which are consistently good certainly deserve recognition, and I have tried to note some of those places to which I return again and again. I hope you enjoy all of my recommendations.

Favorite High-End Restaurant: Superb cuisine, an amazing wine list and impeccable service combine to make L'Espalier a Boston treasure. I have dined there before, and always been impressed, and this past year I attended an amazing Barons de Rothschild Champagne lunch and Cheese Tuesday. The restaurant can transform even the simplest of dishes, such as roast chicken, into a wonder. It is well worth the splurge.

Favorite Restaurant Comeback: My last visit to Avila Modern Mediterranean had been a few years ago and my dinner was disappointing. A few others who I spoke to at that time had also reported less than pleasant experiences. However this year, I recently attended a Glenmorangie Scotch dinner at Avila and was surprised at the high quality and creativity of the food. It was an amazing meal with such compelling items like goat cheese croquettes, creamy corn soup, chicken liver ravioli, and braised Waygu beef cheeks. It seems Avila has greatly improved and I will definitely return.

Unfortunate Tragedy to a Favorite Restaurant: Prezza, in the North End, has been one of my favorite high-end Italian spot but this past July the restaurant suffered a kitchen fire. For the last six months, they have been closed as they have conducted extensive repairs and remodeling. This has been a great loss to the community but fortunately it appears the restaurant is set to reopen any day now. When they reopen, please dine there and give them your support. Their food is exceptional and I am sure you will enjoy whatever you order. Good luck to Chef/Owner Anthony Caturano and all his staff.

Favorite Local Food Dinner Series: Numerous Boston area restaurants are emphasizing local ingredients but special kudos must go out to Post 390 for their monthly Farm to Post dinner series. Each month they emphasize a different local purveyor, from farmers to fishermen, and not only use their products but also bring in the purveyors to talk to diners. That helps diners better understand the sources of their food and it also helps immensely that the food is creative and delicious. Check out their Farm to Post dinners.

Favorite North End Restaurant, Old School: Lucia Ristorante, with a second location in Winchester, opened in the North End back in 1977 and recently celebrated its 35th anniversary. It is very much old school yet the food is actually quite tasty. Their chef's skill was quite evident at a fantastic polenta dinner and their anniversary celebration also emphasized their culinary skills. You may not consider Lucia when selecting a North End restaurant, but you should give it some consideration. Their Winchester location also carries excellent pizzas.

Favorite Italian Restaurant Outside the North End: For some of the most creative Italian fare in Boston, you can't go wrong with Erbaluce, Chef Chuck Draghi continues to impress with his unique take on many traditional Italian dishes and the restaurant also has a compelling Italian wine list. How many other restaurants in Boston make fried sunflower heads? His dishes, generally prepared without butters and creams, are often lighter yet still full of flavor. Dine there and check out their ever changing menu or attend one of their compelling events.

Favorite Spanish Restaurant: Chef Deborah Hansen of Taberna de Haro in Brookline continues to invest great passion into her Spanish cuisine. The restaurant has recently expanded in size, nearly doubling, and have added a bar. They are also adding more Spanish wines to their already expansive wine list, including more Sherries. One of their newest culinary events is Roasted Sucking Pig Tuesdays, which I haven't yet attended but plan to do so soon.    

Favorite Mexican Restaurant: Chef Joe Cassinelli of Pizzeria Posto, one of my favorite Italian spots, opened a second restaurant, The Painted Burro, which offers Mexican cuisine. The food I tasted during my two dinners and brunch there have all impressed, including the Yucatan Meatloaf. I am usually not a meatloaf fan but this opened my eyes to the potential and I cannot recommend it enough. The Burro also has an extensive list of tequilas and mezcals, with plenty of tasty cocktails. A great addition to the local area.

Favorite Suburban Restaurant, Italian: Italian restaurants are ubiquitous in the suburbs, but too many of them are simply average. However, the new A Tavola in Winchester, the second restaurant of Chef Vittorio Ettore (who also owns Bistro 5 in Medford) rises above the masses. Lots of Piattini, small plates, make a great way to start your dinner from their homemade charcuterie to seafood dishes. Then you can move onto their killer pasta, their exceptional risotto, smoky Porchetta and more. It is an intimate restaurant, showcasing the culinary genius of Chef Ettore, and can compete with any Boston restaurant.

Favorite BYOB Restaurant: In the suburbs, you can find a number of BYOB restaurants and one of them is my usual go to spot when I want to bring my own wine or Sake. Kyotoya, in Stoneham, is an inexpensive Japanese restaurant with delicious food, such as superb tempura, and they do not charge a corkage fee. I have dined there numerous times, usually bringing wine or Sake, and those I have introduced to the place have all very much enjoyed it.

Favorite New Hampshire Restaurant: Moxy, situated in Portsmouth, would shine wherever it was located. Chef Matt Louis, with an impressive culinary resume, has created a superb restaurant which emphasizes Spanish inspired tapas, using local ingredients and a New England flair. The food is excellent and the menu concept works well. They also have a good drinks program, from wine to cocktails and including numerous local beers. I would even stop there just for their desserts, such as mini-Whoopie pies. It gets my highest recommendation and I eagerly look forward to my next visit.

Favorite Connecticut Restaurant, Casual: At the Mohegan Sun Casino, there are plenty of restaurants but which one should you select? For amazing fried chicken, in a casual atmosphere, check out Big Bubba's BBQ. The restaurant serves BBQ and southern cuisine and the plates are quite large, stacked high with food. The Finger Lickin Fried Chicken plate included two large chicken breasts and two wings, more than enough chicken to satisfy any craving. It was superb, perfectly cooked, with a nice crispy and well seasoned coating and very moist, tender white meat.

Favorite Connecticut Restaurant, High-End: If you are seeking something more elegant for dinner at the Mohegan Sun, then Bobby Flay's Bar Americain would be a good choice. It has a menu of American favorites, some with a southern flair, as well as plenty of fresh seafood. The food is delicious, well prepared, and worth the high prices. Enjoy their Buttermilk Fried Chicken or Duck with Dirty Wild Rice, Pecans, & Bourbon. I would also highly recommend ordering a side of Hot Potato Chips with Blue Cheese Sauce, a decadent delight with crisp chips and a creamy, tangy sauce.

Favorite Louisville Restaurant, Casual: Sometimes you stumble upon a restaurant and end up having a delicious meal. Seeking a quick lunch, I stopped at the Bluegrass Burgers in Louisville, Kentucky, knowing nothing about it beforehand. This burger joint prides itself in serving mostly local ingredients, from their meats to their produce. The Kentucky Grass Fed Bison Burger, topped by local Bleu-Gouda cheese, was an excellent burger, moist with plenty of tasty flavor and the cheese added an intriguing and compelling element. Their sweet potato fries were also addictive, with a bright sweet potato flavor and a crisp exterior. I wish we had a burger place like this in the Boston area.

Favorite Louisville Restaurant, Mid-Range: Another restaurant dedicated to local ingredients, Harvest has huge portraits of the farmers they use on their walls. The food, from the Buttermilk Fried Chicken to Crispy Pork Confit, is tasty and reasonably priced. And for dessert, their Bourbon Bread Pudding was amazing, one of the best bread puddings I have tasted. It has a casual ambiance, a good wine list and service was excellent. A great choice in Louisville, Kentucky.

Favorite Louisville Restaurant, High-End: After attending the Kentucky Derby, a group of us went to Corbett's for a special post-Derby prix-fixe menu. From a Smoked Salmon Parfait to a Creekstone Tenderloin, the food was exquisite, with killer wine pairings and superb service in an intimate dining area. The cuisine could compete with any high-end restaurant in Boston.

Favorite Nova Scotia Bakery: While visiting Dartmouth, my hotel was just around the corner from the Two If By Sea Cafe, where I had heard they made exceptional croissants. I found that was not an understatement. They are heavier than the usual croissant, containing far more layers, and probably weigh at least twice as much than the usual croissant. Yet they remain flaky and soft throughout the croissant, each bite a pure delight. Their prosciutto & cheese was my favorite, the prosciutto adding a salty flair to the croissant and some of the ham that stuck out the ends was satisfyingly crispy. This is one of the best croissants I have ever tasted, putting to shame so many meager ham & cheese croissants. Highly recommended.

Favorite Nova Scotia Restaurant: In Halifax, Chives Canadian Bistro offers a menu based on seasonal produce from local farmers, artisan cheese and meat producers, and sustainable seafood. The cuisine offers contemporary Canadian bistro dishes rooted in European culinary history. It is an intimate place, with cool decor, and the food and wine impressed. General Tao's Bacon, New Orleans Po' Boy Sandwich, Lobster Tagliatelle and more. The chef has won numerous awards and they are well deserved.

Favorite Carnivore Dinner: It is no secret that I love meat. When I traveled to Tuscany, I had a dinner that would have satiated even the most demanding carnivore. At the Officina della Bistecca, famed butcher Dario Cecchini offers an incredible prix fixe meal, which includes five courses of beef. All of the meat was superb, especially the beef tartare, which melted in my mouth. Cecchini uses high quality beef, simply prepared, and the flavor fills your mouth with joy. Seated at communal tables, dinner is more of an experience than simply a meal. My highest recommendation.

Favorite Dessert: At the Red Lantern in Boston, their Pineapple Bread Pudding, with coconut ice cream, was superb, a perfect blend of tropical flavors. The bread pudding had a nice firm, but soft, texture and it was bursting with fresh pineapple flavors. I really think an enterprising baker should open a bread pudding dessert shop, offering a variety of different bread puddings. Forget cup cakes, let us see more bread puddings.

Consistent Favorites

Favorite Brunch, Traditional Fare: For a third year, the winner is AKA Bistro in Lincoln.

Brunch, Traditional Fare-Honorable Mention: For a third year, my choice is Tupelo in Inman Square.

Favorite Brunch, Non-Traditional Fare: For the fourth year in a row, the winner is Myers & Chang in the South End.

Favorite Suburban Restaurant: For the third year in a row, the winner is AKA Bistro in Lincoln.

Favorite Japanese Restaurant: For a third year, the winner is Oishii in the South End.

Favorite Chinatown Restaurant: For a third year, the winner is Gourmet Dumpling House.

Favorite Somerville Restaurant: Last year, Bergamot was my Overall Favorite Restaurant and it continues to be worthy of kudos. I haven't been there as much this past year but need to remedy that in the new year. My highest recommendation.

Favorite Underappreciated Restaurant: For the third year, the winner is T.W. Food in Cambridge.

Favorite Asian Buffet: For a fourth year, the winner is Taipei Tokyo Cafe in Woburn.

Favorite North End Restaurant, High End: For a third year, the winnner is Prezza.

Favorite North End Restaurant, Moderate: For a third year, the winner is Nebo.

Favorite North End Restaurant, Fusion: For a third year, the winner is Taranta.

Favorite Italian Restaurant, Somerville: For a third year, the winner is Pizzeria Posto.

Favorite Suburban Steak House: For a fourth year, the winner is Beacon Grille in Woburn. 

Favorite Fried Seafood: For a third year, the winner is the Clam Box in Ipswich.

What were some of your favorite restaurants this year?

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