Tag: featured

Becoming Essential

by sswagler, posted in food, restaurants

Kristen Hall and Victor King know what’s essential when it comes to a successful restaurant—it’s more than gracious, friendly service; interesting, delicious foods; a thoughtful wine list; and creative craft cocktails. With their new eatery, The Essential, the two chefs have created a place that’s quickly becoming an everyday part of the lives around them. … Continue reading Becoming Essential

One Mississippi … Roast

by sswagler, posted in food, recipes

I read the New York Times Cooking story last week about America's love affair with ranch dressing and immediately started craving Mississippi Roast. This Pinterest favorite dish is traditionally made in a slow cooker with chuck roast, pepperoncini peppers and a package of ranch dressing. The Times recipe by Sam Sifton calls for making your own ranch dressing, … Continue reading One Mississippi … Roast

Ricatoni’s Italian Grill is About More Than Just the Food

by sswagler, posted in food, restaurants

Every college town has a go-to pizza place. Some might have two or even three. But only one town has Ricatoni’s Italian Grill. This Italian restaurant in historic downtown Florence has been around for decades serving tasty, homemade food; supporting its community; and employing lots of local students, but the passion of owner Rick Elliott … Continue reading Ricatoni’s Italian Grill is About More Than Just the Food

Delicious Cross-Cultural Exploration at El ZunZún

by sswagler, posted in food, restaurants

The greatest inspiration for El ZunZún came from the tiniest of things:  the hummingbird. The cultures and foods along the hummingbird’s migratory route are evident everywhere you look—and in everything you taste—at El ZunZún in Cahaba Heights (which will open Monday, August 27). Restaurant owner and pastry chef Becky Satterfield and executive chef Angela Schmidt, … Continue reading Delicious Cross-Cultural Exploration at El ZunZún

Summer Edit Part 2: More Food and Drink and Life

by sswagler, posted in food, recipes, travel

St. George Island never disappoints. Even on a cloudy day, and those have been few, it's my favorite place to be. Life is here simple:  hours and hours of reading books on the beach under a huge umbrella. We listen to Oyster Radio (100.5 WOYS) and don't turn on the television. I've had oyster dates with … Continue reading Summer Edit Part 2: More Food and Drink and Life

Odette is Destination Dining in Florence

by sswagler, posted in food, restaurants, travel

For nearly five years, Odette owner Celeste Pillow and executive chef Josh Quick and their team have helped downtown Florence, Alabama flourish--one delicious dish at a time. The casual, upscale restaurant is one of a growing number of locally owned, small businesses drawing people back to this exciting town’s downtown. Read more about Odette here … Continue reading Odette is Destination Dining in Florence