Tuesday, May 29, 2012

Messina Hof Sunset Tour - Bryan, Texas

Friday, June 1, 2012, from 6:00 PM - 7:00 PM

Messina Hof Winery & Resort
4545 Old Reliance Road
Bryan, TX 77808
800-736-9463 ext 238

Join us for a casual evening stroll around our Bryan estate vineyard & resort led by one of our Messina Hof hosts.  Learn about the history of Texas’ most awarded winery, view the romantic Villa and gourmet Vintage House restaurant, and see where your favorite Messina Hof wines are made.  Afterwards, you’ll indulge in a flight of three wines perfectly paired with three delectable tapas conceived by our Chef and the Messina Hof culinary team.  What a stellar way to start your weekend!
Reservations suggested and greatly appreciated!
Please call 800-736-9463 x244 to make your reservation.

For more information, click here to visit their website.

Saturday, May 26, 2012

Messina Hof Wine Appreciation: How Herbs in Cooking Can Complement Wine


Sunday, May 27, 2012, from 3:00 PM - 4:30 PM

4545 Old Reliance Road
Bryan, TX 77808
979-778-9463



Messina Hof, one of the fastest growing award-winning wineries and resorts in Texas, will host a series of Wine Appreciation Classes this spring.

There are a wide variety of grapes produced throughout the world, which take on many different flavors, textures and forms. Grape varietals are different breeds of grapes that can accentuate wines. Guests will have the opportunity to learn about the wine varietals and wine pairings; as well as taste award-winning Messina Hof wines.

May 27, 2012: “How Herbs in Cooking Can Complement Wine”

Messina Hof’s monthly Wine Appreciation Classes are taught so everyone from beginner to connoisseur can follow along and learn about the fabulous world of fine wine. Classes are held at 3 p.m., last 90 minutes, and include light cheeses and wines.

COST:$19.95 per person plus tax and gratuity

For reservations call 979-778-9463 ext. 234

About Messina Hof Winery and Resort
Messina Hof Winery and Resort was established in 1977 by Co-Founders Paul and Merrill Bonarrigo. Messina Hof was founded on family values, romance and tradition. Messina Hof is the leader in the establishment of the Texas wine industry and ranks as one of the fastest growing, most award-winning wineries in the state.

Five-time winner of the "Top Texas Wine" at the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, Messina Hof wines are handcrafted at the winery, located in Bryan, Texas. In 2011 Messina Hof was recognized as "Best of Herd" winery, or best Texas winery, and "Best of Class" at the San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo Wine Competition. Messina Hof Winery and Resort boast on their 100 acre property the Vintage House Restaurant, origin of Vineyard Cuisine, the Villa, which was voted "Most Romantic Bed and Breakfast in the USA" and the Wine Master's Room Wine Bar, voted best wine by the glass in the Brazos Valley. In 2011, Messina Hof was named "Texas Grand Star Champion" at the Lone Star International Wine Competition.

Messina Hof wines can be shipped directly to consumers and/or businesses in the following states: Alaska, California, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Indiana, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nevada, New York, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Texas, Virginia, Washington D.C., Washington, and Wyoming.

Messina Hof can also ship to the following states Arkansas, Idaho, Louisiana, Montana, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Mexico, Oregon, West Virginia through Vinoshipper.com

For more information on Messina Hof Winery and Resort, please visit www.MessinaHof.com.  

Friday, May 25, 2012

Olive & June Serves Up Sunday Night Family Dinners


Olive & June's Sunday Night Family-Style Dinners ($35 per person, kids eat free) will include new dishes every week and seasonal specialties not found on the restaurant’s regular dinner menu. The family-style dinners feature a bounty of Chef Cirkiel’s hearty Southern Italian creations served together in generous portion sizes perfect for sharing with loved ones. (Ala carte dishes from the regular dinner menu will not be available during Sunday dinner service.)

Thursday, May 24, 2012

3rd ANNUAL TEXAS MONTHLY BBQ FESTIVAL ANNOUNCED


TEXAS MONTHLY ANNOUNCES ITS
THIRD ANNUAL BBQ FESTIVAL

“Best BBQ” Restaurants to be Showcased on September 23

Building on the success of its first two BBQ Festivals,Texas Monthly today announced that it will hold its third annual BBQ Festival on September 23 on the City Terrace at the Long Center for the Performing Arts in Austin. Festival attendees will enjoy an afternoon of barbecue sampling, great live music and cold libations beside the picturesque shores of Lady Bird Lake.

Many of the top 50 BBQ joints in Texas, as selected by the magazine, will travel from across the state to share their fare, cooking tips and visit with festival-goers. Participants at the 2010 and 2011 festivals included Baker’s Ribs (Dallas), Bid Daddy’s Roadhouse BBQ (Lavon), Baby J’s Bar-B-Que & Fish (Palestine), Franklin BBQ (Austin), Coleman’s BBQ (Clarksville), Hard Eight BBQ (Stephenville), Cousin’s Bar-B-Q (Fort Worth), Snow’s BBQ (Lexington), Stanley’s Famous Pit Bar-B-Q (Tyler), and Vincek’s Smokehouse (East Bernard).

Texas Monthlywill again be hosting 3,000 BBQ fanatics and will offer VIP and general admission tickets, both on sale on July 26.

For more information about the 2012Texas Monthly BBQ Festival, including ticket information, visit www.texasmonthly.com/bbqfestival or follow us @tmbbqfest.

Texas Monthly has a monthly readership of over 2.4 million, reaching one out of every eight Texas adults.Texas Monthly is published by Emmis Publishing, L.P. Emmis owns and operates radio stations and other magazines across the country.

Dockside Pick-Up Service at Ski Shores Café


Austin’s iconic lakeside restaurant and bar, Ski Shores Café, now offers dockside pick-up, allowing boaters to call ahead, place their order and never have to step out of the boat! But there are plenty of reasons to come into the restaurant: great food, great drinks and of course, a great view!  Families will love Friday Family Fun Nights! Fridays families can come for dinner, then gather ‘round the fire pit, enjoy free gooey s’mores and take in a family friendly movie!

Wednesday, May 23, 2012

Zhi Tea Launches Food Menu with Local Faire


Zhi Tea, Austin's go-to for premium organic tea, launches a new menu with offerings from Texas bakeries and farms. Curated to compliment Zhi's extensive tea collection, the menu features organic fruit from Greenling, cheese from Pure Luck Dairy and Texas pecans from Rio Grande Organics. Local handmade treats from The Chocolate Makers Studio, Rockstar Bagels and pastries from Amity Bakery round out their tea room choices.

"We based our new menu on customer requests we've gathered over the years and our own snacking styles. For this petite menu, we chose healthy, simple yet elegant plates to complement our teas. We're happy to suggest something that pairs perfectly with your tea selection and vice versa," said Jeffrey Lorien, CEO of Zhi Tea.

The addition of small plates and more a la carte menu items to Zhi Tea's table service transforms the East Austin tasting room into a bona fide zen cafe, where patrons can enjoy freshly brewed hot or iced tea with their favorite local faire.

"We are looking forward to creating more local food and drink memories with our guests," said Jessica Evans, brand manager for Zhi Tea. "People are staying longer at Zhi, and sharing more food embodies the sense of hospitality that I love about Zhi Tea. It’s the perfect addition to our comprehensive tea list and an invitation to our visitors to stay a while and truly experience Zhi."

Zhi Tea is located at 4607 Bolm Rd., Austin, TX, 78702. Business hours are 10 am – 6 pm, Monday-Friday, 11 am- 4 pm on Saturday and noon-5 pm on Sundays.

About Zhi Tea
Founded in 2007, Zhi Tea is a homegrown Austin company. Committed to sustainability and health, Zhi offers over 80 fair trade and organic teas. All of Zhi’s teas are hand-picked and processed in small batches, assuring the highest quality cups. For more information, visit zhitea.com.  For updates and tea events, follow Zhi on Facebook!

Fresa's Chicken Drive-Thru Hatches in Central Austin


Succulent Mexican-inspired fair is the spotlight! Complete chicken meals served with beans, rice and tortillas are ready in minutes and served through the convenient drive-thru or take-out window, ideal for busy couples or families. Proud of their chickens, Fresa’s chickens are sourced exclusively from Peeler Farms in Floresville, Texas. Freshly prepared Margarita mixer kits are avaialble to go, too!

For more information, click here.

Tuesday, May 22, 2012

Uncle Billy’s Rooftop to Host Sunday Gospel Brunch Series All Summer Long

Uncle Billy’s Rooftop to Host Sunday Gospel Brunch Series All Summer:
Includes Inspired All-You-Can-Eat Buffet,
 Specialty Cocktails and Beers, and Live Gospel Music

Sunday dining at Uncle Billy’s Brew & ’Cue is about to become a spiritual experience. Beginning May 27, Uncle Billy’s at the Oasis, Texas village will feature a lively Sunday gospel brunch. Perched 450 feet above Lake Travis, Uncle Billy’s Rooftop will host its divine gospel brunch every Sunday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. throughout the summer, showcasing spirited live music from some of the best gospel bands in all of Texas and the South, as well as a buffet-style brunch featuring a bevy of scrumptious breakfast, salad and downhome dishes, a barbecue-inspired carving station, specialty brunch cocktails and Uncle Billy’s award-winning hand-crafted beers.
 
Kicking off Uncle Billy’s brunch series on Sunday, May 27, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., the River City Christianettes will face off against the Jones Family Singers in an old-fashioned gospel throwdown. Hailing from San Antonio and Markham, respectively, both of these house-wreckin’ female singing groups have enchanted crowds at the Austin City Limits Music Festival and during South by Southwest. Now they’re ready to raise their voices up on Uncle Billy’s expansive, 800-capacity rooftop deck, with a glorious backdrop of Lake Travis and azure Central Texas skies.
 
In cooperation with music-events promoter Marsha Milam, Uncle Billy’s gospel brunch series will be curated by Michael Corcoran, a veteran music writer for the Austin-American Statesman and a gospel music aficionado — ensuring one-of-a-kind brunch entertainment from only the best gospel musicians each Sunday. Other upcoming Uncle Billy’s gospel brunch performers include The Mighty Sincere Voices of Navasota on June 3, and Lake Charles, La.-based Lady Bea and the Angelic Voices on June 10.
 
While Uncle Billy’s guests take in the soulful gospel sounds and breathtaking lakeside views, they can also indulge in a variety of heavenly delights at the all-you-can-eat brunch buffet ($18.95 per person, $8.95 for kids 12 and younger). Highlights include melt-in-your-mouth Deviled Eggs, Macaroni and Cheese, Firecracker Slaw, Biscuits and Sausage Gravy, Potatoes O’Billy (Uncle Billy’s tastier version of Potatoes O’Brien), Poblano and Cheese Grits, Migas with Pulled Pork and Green Chile Sauce, assorted Quiches with Hollandaise Sauce and decadent Crème-Brule French Toast Casserole topped with Maple Syrup. Of course, Uncle Billy’s is renowned for its barbecue, so brunch wouldn’t be complete with a carving station with Smoked Brisket, Jalapeno-Cheese Sausage, Country-Style Sausage and Smoked Turkey. Lighter brunch options include Fruit Salad topped with Marshmallows and Walnuts, and Fresh Green Salads served with a choice of dressings.       
 
And since Uncle Billy’s knows no meal is really a meal to be praised without a specialty adult beverage, brunch will feature such delights as the Bottle Rocket Michelada, the Bee Sting (dark beer and orange juice), the Shandy (beer and ginger ale), the Bloody Billy (Maker’s Mark, Bloody Mary mix and a habanero green bean) and Bloody Mary, bottomless Mimosas and the full award-wining draft beer menu. It all adds up to an enlightened gospel brunch experience unlike any other in Central Texas. 
   
Uncle Billy’s Rooftop is located at the Oasis, Texas village at 6550 Comanche Trail, adjacent to the world-famous Oasis Restaurant above Lake Travis. The indoor-outdoor venue features live music almost every day of the week, and an award-wining barbecue, beer and cocktail menu served in a picturesque lakeside setting. For more information about Uncle Billy’s Rooftop and the new Sunday Gospel Brunch, call (512) 476-0100 or visit www.UncleBillysRooftop.com and www.UncleBillys.com.

Friday, May 18, 2012

Messina Hof Winery & Resort TGIWine Sunday

Messina Hof Winery & Resort TGIWine Sunday


Sunday, May 20, 2012, from 3:00 PM - 6:00 PM

Messina Hof Winery
4545 Old Reliance Rd
Bryan, Texas 77808
979-778-9463 ext. 244


Messina Hof Winery & Resort
“TGIWINE SUNDAY” at the Wine Bar
March 2012- May 2012 Schedule


Messina Hof Winery and Resort, one of the fastest growing award-winning wineries and resorts in Texas, continues its “Thank Goodness It's Wine Sunday” (TGIWine Sunday) series, at the wine bar this spring.

TGIWine Sunday is a monthly event that allows guests to sample a variety of Messina Hof’s premium award-winning wine varietals. This is the perfect after work venue to mix and mingle while enjoying a taste of Texas’ best. Attendees can indulge in complimentary cheeses or purchase a delicious starter dish from the wine bar menu to pair with the award-winning selections on display.

Messina Hof offers two options for TGI Wine Sunday:

TGI Wine Sunday – GOLD includes 10 wines:
 2 Dry Whites
 3 Semi-Dry
 3 Reds
 2 Desserts
 Small Cheese Plate
 $15 in advance/$20 at the door



TGI Wine Sunday– PLATINUM includes 20 wines:
 4 Dry Whites
 6 Semi-Dry
 6 Reds
 4 Desserts
 Fruit and Cheese Plate
 $25 in advance/$30 at the door
 
Guests are encouraged to bring their friends, family and co-workers to enjoy this ideal “happy hour” destination. The events will take place from 6 - 9 p.m., with tickets available from $15 in advance.

For more information visit
http://messinahof.com/tgiwinethursday.php, and for reservations call 979-778-9463 ext. 244

WHEN:         Sunday, March 18, 2012

                       Sunday, April 15, 2012

                       Sunday, May 20, 2012

                       3 p.m. – 6 p.m.

COST:          TGI Wine Sunday – GOLD

                       $15 per person in advance

                       $20 per person at the door


                       TGI Wine Sunday – PLATINUM

                       $25 per person in advance

                       $30 per person at the door

WHERE:      Messina Hof Winery & Resort

                     4545 Old Reliance Rd
                     Bryan, Texas 77808
 


About Messina Hof Winery and Resort

Messina Hof Winery and Resort was established in 1977 by Co-Founders Paul and Merrill Bonarrigo. Messina Hof was founded on family values, romance and tradition. Messina Hof is the leader in the establishment of the Texas wine industry and ranks as one of the fastest growing, most award-winning wineries in the state.

Five-time winner of the "Top Texas Wine" at the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, Messina Hof wines are handcrafted at the winery, located in Bryan, Texas. In 2011 Messina Hof was recognized as "Best of Herd" winery, or best Texas winery, and "Best of Class" at the San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo Wine Competition. Messina Hof Winery and Resort boast on their 100 acre property the Vintage House Restaurant, origin of Vineyard Cuisine, the Villa, which was voted "Most Romantic Bed and Breakfast in the USA" and the Wine Master's Room Wine Bar, voted best wine by the glass in the Brazos Valley. In 2011, Messina Hof was named "Texas Grand Star Champion" at the Lone Star International Wine Competition.

Messina Hof wines can be shipped directly to consumers and/or businesses in the following states: Alaska, California, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Indiana, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nevada, New York, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Texas, Virginia, Washington D.C., Washington, and Wyoming.

Messina Hof can also ship to the following states Arkansas, Idaho, Louisiana, Montana, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Mexico, Oregon, West Virginia through Vinoshipper.com

For more information on Messina Hof Winery and Resort, please visit www.MessinaHof.com.

Inwood Estates - Armed Forces Day - Cabernet Weekend - 5/18 - 5/20 - Florence, Texas

Inwood Estates - Armed Forces Day - Cabernet Weekend - 5/18 - 5/20


Friday, May 18, 2012 - Sunday, May 20, 2012, from 12:00 PM - 6:00 PM

Inwood Estates Tasting Room at The Vineyard at Florence
100 Via Francesco, 8711 W. FM 487
Florence, TX 76527
254-793-3114     

Armed Forces Day Celebration -
Cabernet Weekend!

Friday - Sunday

Enjoy Complimentary Comparison Tastings of
Inwood Estates' Bordeaux Blends
~~  2009 Magdalena - Margaux-style  ~~
~~  2008 Magellan - Pauillac-style  ~~

Entertainment by Accoustin Guitarist
Brian Mullin
(Sun 1-4 p.m.)

AND, ALL MILITARY WILL RECEIVE
10% Off on Wine Purchases

For more information about the event, click here.

Messina Hof's Sunset Tour - Bryan, Texas

Messina Hof's Sunset Tour


Friday, May 18, 2012, from 6:00 PM - 7:00 PM
Messina Hof Winery & Resort
4545 Old Reliance Road
Bryan, TX 77808
979-778-9463

Join us for a casual evening stroll around our Bryan estate vineyard & resort led by one of our Messina Hof hosts.  Learn about the history of Texas’ most awarded winery, view the romantic Villa and gourmet Vintage House restaurant, and see where your favorite Messina Hof wines are made.  Afterwards, you’ll indulge in a flight of three wines perfectly paired with three delectable tapas conceived by our Chef and the Messina Hof culinary team.  What a stellar way to start your weekend!
Reservations suggested and greatly appreciated!

Please call 800-736-9463 x244 to make your reservation.

Cost: $25

For more information about Messina Hof Winery and Resort, click here.  

CandyFavorites.com, Backed by One of America's Oldest Wholesale Candy Companies, and St.Martin's Press Team Up to Spread Candy History

Candyfavorites.com, backed by one of America's oldest wholesale candy companies, is joining forces with St.Martins Press and author Kate Hopkins of The Accidental Hedonist to promote the launch of Hopkins’ new book SWEET TOOTH: The Bittersweet History of Candy.

The promotion features a nostalgic candy contest, with signed copies of the book and retro candy items as prizes.

“SWEET TOOTH by Kate Hopkins is a must-read for everybody who considers themselves a candy freak,” says Kimberly Hanson of St. Martin’s Press.

SWEET TOOTH chronicles Hopkins’ international quest to uncover the forgotten history of candy. Finding her innocent childhood love of candy replaced by very adult fears, she set out to unearth the truth behind our most accessible of luxuries. What she discovered was the fascinating evolution from simple, natural ingredients to a multi-billion-dollar confectionery industry.

“As the owner of one of the oldest wholesale candy companies in the nation and one of the internet's first online candy stores, I was amazed at how enlightening this book was." Says Jon H.Prince, President of CandyFavorites.com

The promotional candy contest will ask entrants to submit memories that give their favorite candies such nostalgic importance. Five lucky winners will receive a signed copy of "Sweet Tooth", and one will win tens pounds of retro candy mix.

To enter the candy contest, simply visit our blog by clicking here and submit your own story of nostalgic candy memories.

About Candy Favorites
Candyfavorites.com is one of the first online candy stores and is backed by one of the oldest wholesale candy companies in the United States, serving its customers since 1927. The company has a strong emphasis on offering the candies adults fondly remember from their childhoods. Candy history and other resources are also featured on their website. For more information or to place an order, visit http://www.candyfavorites.com or contact us at 1-888-525-7577.

Thursday, May 17, 2012

Max's is Turning Three!

MAX'S WINE DIVE
Sunday, May 20th | 5:30pm | $75 


Another birthday around the corner... Max's is turning three! Join them for a celebratory Farmers' Market Dinner benefiting Settlement Home for Children.  Prior to dinner you'll even have a chance to meet and chat with the farmers themselves from Johnson's Backyard Garden, Vital Farms, Antonelli's Cheese Shop, and La Villa Ranch.  Then, you'll be treated to an elaborate four-course dinner featuring the farmers' offerings, paired with organic and sustainably grown wines.


Green Beans Three Ways
 Braised with Quail Sausage, Spicy Pickled and Tempura Fried
 (Johnson's Backyard Garden)
Francois Pinon 'Tradition' Vouvray
 
 Deconstructed Gazpacho
 Fresh Tomatoes, Shaved Cucumbers, Pickled Red Onion & Basil Sorbet
 (Johnson's Backyard Garden)
Feital 'Auratus' Trajadura/Alvarinho

 The Chicken and the Egg
 Chicken-Carrot Ragout on top of Fresh Zucchini Pappardelle with a Red Wine Poached Egg
 (Vital Farms and Johnson's Backyard Garden)
Luca Bosio Barbera d'Asti


 Cheese Course
 Texas Cheeses with House-Made Accompaniments
Alexandro Pedro Ximenez Sherry

 For more information and to purchase tickets, visit Max's calendar of events page.

Olive & June to Host Exclusive Gluten-Fre​e Dinner Events In Honor of Celiac Awareness Month

There's Been a DATE CHANGE:
Olive & June to Host Exclusive Gluten-Free Dinner Events on May 23rd & May 24th
Five-Course Menu to Include House-Made Italian
 Specialties Served in Private Chef’s Table Room
  

In honor of Celiac Awareness Month, one of Austin’s most celebrated new restaurants is serving up two special gluten-free dinner events. Olive & June, Chef Shawn Cirkiel’s Southern Italian-style restaurant, will host two exclusive gluten-free dinners on May 23rd and May 24th, featuring five mouthwatering courses highlighting Chef Cirkiel’s hearty Italian cuisine, paired with a selection of specialty cocktails and Italian wines.
 
Beginning at 7:30 p.m., Olive & June’s special gluten-free dinner events ($80 per person, includes sales tax and gratuity) offer a truly VIP dining experience. Guests will be seated family-style — providing for an engaging and interactive evening with other diners — in the chef’s table room, an intimate private space with views of the kitchen. Additionally, Chef Cirkiel will make several tableside visits to answer any questions diners may have bout the special gluten-free dishes.
 
 Served family-style, Chef Cirkiel’s gluten-free dinners feature a newly composed special menu including a piccolo piatti course of Scallop Crudo, Mortadella Italian Sausage and Pistachios, paired with an Aperol Spritz aperitif of Aperol, Prosecco and a lemon twist. The antipasti course features House-Made Ricotta with Roasted Summer Vegetables and an Aged Balsamic, and a Salad of Roasted, Marinated Cipollini Onions, Sweet Peppers, Arugula and Cecina, a thin Italian bread made with chickpea flour and olive oil. This will be paired with a 2010 Abbazia di Novacella Muller Thurgau, a slightly aromatic and lively white wine that will perfectly complement the flavors of the antipasti course. Chef Cirkiel’s primi course includes Grilled Prawns, Gluten-Free Spaghetti Pasta, Strawberries and Fresh Scallions, and will be paired with a 2010 Rocca del Dragone Falanghina Campania, a dry, medium-bodied white wine with a somewhat fruity aroma. A hearty dish of Rabbit, Prosciutto, Pepporanata and Mint Yogurt is the highlight of the secondi course, and will be paired with a 2008 Dolcetto d’Alba DOC Piazzo, a dry, full-bodied red wine. Completing the meal will be a dolci of Fresh, Local Peaches, Mascarpone and Almonds, served with Galliano, a sweet, herbal liqueur with hints of star anise and vanilla.         
 
 Seating for Olive & June’s special gluten-free dinner events is extremely limited, and guests are asked to purchase tickets online at http://oliveandjune.eventbrite.com/.
 
Olive & June is located at 3411 Glenview Ave. in Central Austin. Serving Southern Italian-style cuisine handmade by renowned chef Shawn Cirkiel, and a variety of gluten-free options on the nightly dinner menu, Olive & June is open seven days a week for dinner service. For more information about the upcoming gluten-free dinner events in honor of Celiac Awareness month, please call (512) 467-9898, or visit www.OliveandJune-Austin.com.

Wednesday, May 16, 2012

El Meson Spanish Wine Dinner featuring Eric Solomon Selections - Houston, Texas


El Meson Spanish Wine Dinner featuring Eric Solomon Selections
Wednesday, May 23, 2012, from 7:00 PM - 10:00 PM

El Meson Restaurant
2425 University Blvd.
Houston, Texas 77005
713-522-9306

Enjoy northern Spanish cuisine with Chef Pedro A. Garcia at El Meson Restaurant in the Village. Menu features “Pulpo ala Gallega,” Octopus Galician Style, and “Zancarrón con Legumbres de León,” Osso Buco with White Beans from Leon. Yes, Veal Shank is served in Spain and is known Zancarrón, but the white beans are the treat here and are like no other you have ever had. You have to taste them to know them. ;) The wines are all premium selections: Peter Sisseck’s, of Pingus fame, Clos d’Agon 04 and 09 side by side. Benjamin Romero’s, of Artadi fame, “El Predicdor,” Rioja 2008. Visit the website and see why El Meson continues to offer the best wine dinners in town. Affordable. Yes. Why? Because it pleases me. That’s right. I love it! You will too. Experience it for yourself. - Chef Pedro A. Garcia

To visit their website for more information, click here.

Tuesday, May 15, 2012

Lemonade Recipe

With the dog days of summer quickly approaching, a nice cold glass of lemonade would hit the spot. Give this recipe a try.

It is quick and easy.

Ingredients
  • 1 3/4 cups white sugar 
  • 8 cups water
  • 1 1/2 cups lemon juice

Directions
  1. In a small saucepan, combine sugar and 1 cup water. Bring to boil and stir to dissolve sugar. Allow to cool to room temperature, then cover and refrigerate until chilled.
  2. Remove seeds from lemon juice, but leave pulp. In pitcher, stir together chilled syrup, lemon juice and remaining 7 cups water.

Monday, May 14, 2012

Celebrate MAX’s Wine Dive’s Third Birthday with an Exciting Culinary Benefit Event

MAX’s Wine Dive to Ring in its Third Year with a Local Farmer and Organic Wine Dinner to Benefit the Settlement Home for Children

MAX’s Wine Dive will celebrate its third year anniversary with a Farmers’ Market Dinner on Sunday, May 20 at 5:30pm. Guests will enjoy a four-course feast featuring local farmers and producers, paired with organic and sustainable wines. MAX’s birthday party will benefit the Settlement Home For Children with a donation of $10 from each ticket purchased.

”We are thrilled to be celebrating three years in Austin with this dinner event – this city has embraced MAX’s from the beginning, and we look forward to giving back through our association with Settlement Home for Children,” said Executive Chef Erica Beneke. The restaurant features many of these local, artisinal products on its regular menu, which changes four times a year. Chef Beneke continued, “It just makes sense for us to celebrate with our friends and the farmers who help us deliver the best possible products to our guests all year long.”
Enjoy local and seasonal foods from Austin’s best farmers, plus a meet and greet with local farmers and purveyors featuring Johnson’s Backyard Garden, Antonelli’s Cheese Shop, La Villa Ranch and Vital Farms.

The four-course menu includes:
  • Green Beans Three Ways: Green Beans Braised with Quail Sausage, Spicy Pickled and Tempura Fried featuring Johnson’s Backyard Garden
  • Deconstructed Gazpacho: Fresh Tomatoes, Shaved Cucumbers, Pickled Red Onion and Basil Sorbet featuring Johnson’s Backyard Garden
  • The Chicken and the Egg: Chicken-Carrot Ragout on top of Fresh Zucchini Pappardelle with a Red Wine Poached Egg featuring Vital Farms and Johnson’s Backyard Garden
  • Cheese Course: Texas Cheeses with House Made Accompaniments.

The Meet the Farmer Social begins at 5:30pm with dinner starting at 6:30pm in MAX’s Underground. Tickets can be purchased online at MAXsWineDive.com for $75 per person (plus tax and gratuity).
MAX’s Underground is located underneath MAX’s Wine Dive at 207 San Jacinto in Austin, Texas. For more information and to purchase tickets, please visit MAXsWineDive.com or call 512.904.0111.

Friday, May 11, 2012

the backspace has new SPRING antipasti menu items!

the backspace has new SPRING antipasti menu items!


roasted green beans, guanciale, pancetta, pecorino romano, chili flake
coal roasted eggplant, bruschetta, garlic, calabrese pepper
charred romaine hearts, anchovy vinaigrette, egg, bread crumb, pecorino
local squash, pumpkin seed pesto, pecorino romano
burrata, orange, mint, chili  
spring onion, agro dulce, potatoes, pickled shallot

the backspace
Austin, TX 78701
Phone: 512.474.9899
Fax: 512.474.2940
info@thebackspace-austin.com

open daily at 5pm 7 days a week

Parkside has New Cocktails!

New Cocktails at parkside!

Join us for Happy Hour every day of the week! 
Remember, Mondays are Martini Mondays with $5 martinis all night!

fish house punch, pyrat rum, brandy, creme de peche,
honey water

old pal, bulleit rye, campari, dry vermouth

parkside cup, pimms, cucumber, san pellegrino limonata

honeymoon, calvados, benedictine, patron citronge,
lemon, bitters

summer love, tito’s, aperol, watermelon

parkside
301 east 6th st.
austin, texas 78701
located on the corner of 6th & san jacinto

512-474-9898
info@parkside-austin.com

sun-sat 5ish-12:30
valet 7 nights a week.

Thursday, May 10, 2012

Olive & June: Mother's Day Menu


Treat mom to a family-style feast on Mother's Day! 

Mother's Day Menu
May 13th

Antipasti
zucchini parmigiana, parsley, pomodoro, mozzarella

Salad
butter lettuce, pickled red onion, thyme,
anchovy-cream dressing, parmesan crisp

Pasta
ricotta ravioli, basil pesto

Entrée
braised beef short rib, red wine, roasted sweet peppers,
garlic, oregano, paprika, tomatoes, chilies

Contorni
kale, chickpeas, garlic
&
roasted new potato, rosemary

Dolci
italian cream cake, texas peaches, pistachi0 

$35 per guest
kids under 12, gratis!
  
Featured Wines
Barberani Castagnolo, Orvieto DOC, Umbria 2009
$11 per glass/$40 per bottle
Zeni, Teroldego DOC, Rotaliano 2007
$14.50 per glass/$54 per bottle

the full wine list will be available as well
please note the regular menu will not be available on Sundays
as always, we'll do our best to accommodate dietary restrictions

Reservations can be made online at Open Table
or call us, 467.9898! Reservations limited.

3411 Glenview Ave.
Austin, Tx | 78703

Plant Walk - This Saturday, May 12th

Plant Walk - This Saturday, May 12th, with herbalist Ginger Webb



May 12, 10 - 11 am
Cost: $12

Join local herbalist and self-described native plant nerd Ginger Webb of Texas Medicinals for a fun and educational tour of the edible and medicinal plants growing wild around the farm! Ginger will teach you what is safe and tasty to nibble, how to harvest, and how to make medicines from all this green wild goodness.
 

There are also a few remaining spots for Kids' Farmer for a Day Camp at the same time.  Let your little ones learn to be farmers while Ginger shows you the basics of herbal medicine.

Saturday, May 5, 2012

Bistrot Mirabelle Introduces New Spring Menu

Chef Dan is transitioning us out of the Winter season and into a fresh Spring menu.  Visit our website to see the full updates, but here are a few highlights:


Harrissa Shrimp
grilled gulf shrimp marinated with harrissa, served with napa ginger slaw

Prosciutto Wrapped Scallops
served with pistachio goat cheese polenta & preserved lemon butter

New England Crab Cake
served with lemon basil beurre blanc

New York Sirloin
served with herb butter, whipped potatoes & green beans

Bistrot Mirabelle | 8127 Mesa Drive Ste A-100 | Austin | TX | 78759

Friday, May 4, 2012

Bistrot Mirabelle has a New Executive Chef

Bistrot Mirabelle is thrilled to announce that chef Dan Haverty has joined them at Bistrot Mirabelle!  Dan spent the last 15 years at Shoreline Grill as Executive Chef.  He brings them a wealth of knowledge, experience and a love of fresh seafood.  Needless to say, they are overjoyed to have him come aboard!

Bistrot Mirabelle | 8127 Mesa Drive Ste A-100 | Austin | TX | 78759

To visit their website, click here.

WinEd (Wine Education) - Marble Falls, Texas

Flat Creek Estate Vineyard & Winery
24912 Singleton Bend East
Marble Falls, TX 78654
512-267-6310

Saturday, May 12, 2012, from 10:30 AM to 11:30 AM

Winemaker Tim Drake will host a series of in-depth classes for novice and experienced wine lovers on the Second Saturday of select months (March, April, May, June).  Each hour long class will focus on various topics from winemaking and blending to viticulture and notable wine regions.  Classes are limited to 20 students.

May 12 Class Description:  Spring Wine Class with Winemaker Tim Drake is Mother's Day Weekend!  Purchase a wine tasting experience Mom is sure to remember.  We're going to have a little fun with Rosés!  Winemaker Tim Drake will discuss the how a true Rosé is made and why white zinfandel is not a Rosé.  A sampling of wines will be included with a sparkling toast and nibbles to follow.  Rosé - it's pink, it's love, it's mom! Register her for this fun and educational experience! 

Cost: $35/Person : $10/Estate Club Member

For information, visit their website.

First Saturday Wine Dinner - Marble Falls, Texas

Flat Creek Estate Vineyard & Winery
24912 Singleton Bend East
Marble Falls, TX 78654
512-267-6310

Saturday, May 5, 2012, from 7:00 PM to 10:00 PM

Join us the First Saturday of each month for an exciting multi-course wine paired dinner.  Chef Sean Fulford will tantalize your tastebuds with unique dishes expertly paired with Flat Creek Estate wines.  These exceptional dinners are a food lover’s dream.  Seating is limited...purchase your tickets today. 

Tickets:  buywine.flatcreekestate.com
Cost: $65
Reservations Required ~ 48 Hr. Cancellation Policy

For information, visit their website.

Thursday, May 3, 2012

New England Lobster Clambake at Bistro Le Cep - Houston, Texas

Bistro Le Cep
11112 Westheimer Road @ Wilcrest
Houston, TX 77042
713-783-3985

Friday, May 4, 2012, from 5:30 PM - 9:30 PM

New England Lobster - Clambake
With the culinary experience during my years as Executive Chef at Anthony’s Pier 4 in Boston it is our pleasure to feature an original New England Lobster - Clambake
Served every Friday until further notice from 5:00 to 9:30 PM

Menu                    
New England Clam Chowder with Corn Bread
****
Crisp Salad with House Dressing
****
Boiled Whole Maine Lobster and Melted Butter
(Rushed by Air Express fresh from the Icy Waters of the Atlantic)
Cherrystone Clams, Jumbo Shrimp
Corn on the Cob and Boiled Potato
Grilled Smoked Sausage
****
New England Peach Tar with Vanilla Ice Cream
*****
Coffee or Tea

Due to limited seating make your reservation soon.
Call 713-783-3985
$39.50 plus tax and gratuity

For more information, click here.

Messina Hof Hill Country Wine and Chocolate Celebration - Fredericksburg, Texas



Messina Hof Hill Country Winery
9996 US Hwy 290 East
Fredericksburg, Texas 78624
(830) 990-4653

Sunday, May 6, 2012, from 11:00 AM - 6:00 PM

Join us at Messina Hof Hill Country Winery to experience a Glass of Messina Hof Wine with a Flight of Six Chocolates from Chocolates El Rey.

The cost is $12.

For more information, click here.

Tuesday, May 1, 2012

Elizabeth Street Café Now Offering Weekday Happy Hour

Elizabeth Street Café Now Offering Weekday Happy Hour:
Specials Include $2 Off All Appetizers, Beer, Wine, Sake and Punch

Elizabeth Street Café, South Austin’s brightly colored, casual French-Vietnamese neighborhood eatery and boulangerie, is serving up the perfect excuse to raise a glass to friends and exclaim, “Vô!” — cheers! Elizabeth Street Café is now offering happy hour Monday through Friday from 3 to 6 p.m., with specials on a variety of menu items and beverages.
 
 Every weekday during happy hour, Austin’s Larry McGuire and Tommy Moorman — the culinary minds behind local hotspots Lamberts Downtown Barbecue and Perla’s Seafood & Oyster Bar — will be offering $2 off every menu appetizer. Can’t-miss apps include a variety of rice paper and vermicelli spring rolls with barbecue pork, poached shrimp, ginger-marinated grilled tofu, Dungeness crab or seared McAllen Ranch flanked steak; Vietnamese wonton soup; spicy chicken and rice soup; fried spring rolls with ginger pork sausage; Texas Akaushi beef carpaccio; Niman Ranch pork belly steamed buns; the delightfully refreshing green mango and cucumber salad with dried eye of round; grilled octopus salad; broiled escargots; and the mouthwatering fried shrimp and yam fritters.
 
 But happy hour wouldn’t be very happy without libations, and Elizabeth Street Café is offering some of the most unique drink specials in Austin. Happy hour specials feature $2 off all glasses of wine, beer, sake and punches, including nearly 20 varieties of wine, 14 beers, seven types of sake and punches such as the Champagne punch, the rosé wine punch, the vermouth punch and the unforgettable sake and plum wine punch.
 
 And guests stopping by for happy hour are welcome to stay for dinner and experience Elizabeth Street Café’s flavorful bánh mì sandwiches, pho noodle soup dishes and búnrice vermicelli bowls, as well as the menu specialties and an array of coffees, teas, lemonades and sodas.
 
Located at 1501 South First St., Elizabeth Street Café features chef-inspired, classic Vietnamese fare and French pastries in a casual neighborhood café environment. For more information about Elizabeth Street Café and the new weekday happy hour, please call (512) 291-2881, or visit www.ElizabethStreetCafe.com