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Articles about Gifts

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I spent a good chunk of yesterday preparing our first ever SideDish newsletter, which will be sent out in a couple hours. To get the most up-to-date food news, reviews, and events sent directly to your inbox every Wednesday, enter your email in the top right panel of our blog (right above the Food Truck Finder thingamajig). Subscribe now and love us foreverrr.

What To Drink and Buy Now: Newton Vineyard and the Puzzle Tray

Newton's The Puzzle Tray available at The Nest

Last week, winemaker Chris Millard of Newton Vineyard visited Dallas with artists Stephanie Tharp and Bruce Tharp, PhD., the husband-and-wife team behind the stunning eco-chic Puzzle Tray (just introduced by the winery and currently sold at The Nest). The idea behind this piece, which is as functional as it is beautiful, came several years ago when Newton started to partner with various artists who believe and work with the same principles of sustainability, ecology, and functionality as they do.   (more…)

Where to Get a Taste of Mardi Gras in Dallas

Atchafalaya with crawfish étouffée from the Alligator Cafe. Photography by Kevin Hunter Marple.

Cajun food is soul food. There’s nothing better than chowing down on a bowl of gumbo or crawfish etouffee that makes your insides feel warm and gooey – which is exactly how I spent Mardi Gras in New Orleans last year. I ate fried oyster po’ boys and laughed at all the drunk people. I scarfed down beignets at 2 am sitting next to a table of old grandmas wearing inappropriate clothing for their age. And mine, for that matter. Since you can’t get the whole Mardi Gras experience here in Dallas (and let’s face it, who doesn’t like watching debauchery sometimes?), here’s where you should go to get a taste:

Jump for some Cajun cravings

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Central Market Debuts New Online Store: 20+ Tasty Gift Boxes, Available 24/7

When I contacted Central Market this morning for an update on their Preston Royal store, I was told there was a press release going out today. It just arrived. Since I have to work at my real job this afternoon, I’m going to copy and paste it.

Wondering how to send a sweet gift – without going to the store?  Know a college student hungry for snacks before finals or have a homesick Texan who needs a pick-me-up?  Looking for unique ideas for holiday gift giving?  Get ready to ship delicious treats from Central Market – just by shopping on the web!

Oh My God! (more…)

Nine Things To Know About Dallas’ Best Bartender, Danny Versfelt

The best bartender in Dallas. Photo by Courtney Egelston.

When D named this year’s best bartender in Dallas, we didn’t judge based on who could mix up a drink the fastest or who amazed us with Tom Cruise in Cocktail style tricks. We said Danny Versfelt was the best in town because he’s the kind of guy who will get to know you, beyond just what you’re drinking. Since Danny V. gets to know so many of you, we thought you ought to know some things about him, beyond just how well he prepares your drink.

Where you’ll find him

Al Biernat’s on Oak Lawn. He’ll be behind the bar every Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday night starting at 4 p.m. and Wednesday during the day. Picture what you think a friendly Irish Catholic guy with some 25 years of Dallas bartending experience would look like and that’s him. Or just look at his photo.

His bartending mantra is…
That the bartender is the host of the party. Someone told it to him in his second year of bartending and it’s stuck in his head ever since. As the host, he’s got to make sure everyone feels welcome and satisfied. He circulates, making conversation and filling glasses, not for patrons, but for guests.

He’s got more to say.

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Feed the Hungry While Spoiling Yourself Rotten

From now through next Friday (March 11) the North Texas Food Bank will be receiving 25 percent of purchases made with The A-List’s “Spoiled for Good” Program. In a fundraising partnership between the two entities, NTFB will receive a quarter of the proceeds when A-Listers purchase discounted gift certificates at foodie and spa citywide. Snatch up certificates for Arcodoro & Pomodoro, Sake Balm, Lavendou, Chill Bubble Tea, Al Biernat’s, Rex’s Fresh Seafood, La Fiorentina, Learning Express, Daddy Jack’s, Skin SpaMed, and more as the week progresses. Gift certificates will be good for 6 months, so there’s no rush to use them tomorrow.

Given that the NTFB serves 307 agencies in 13 North Texas counties (and that 94 cents of each dollar raised goes directly towards hunger relief) the second-hand benefits will be felt all over this part of the state.

For more info about the program or to purchase gift certificates, visit Spoiled for Good and start putting your self-indulgence dollars toward the greater good.

Holiday Gifts Part 4 – Personalized Spirits from Sigel’s

If you have a spirits fan that you still need a holiday gift for head over to Sigel’s today and tomorrow for some personalized gifts.  Mainly on Thursday at the Greenville location for etched bottles of Knob Creek Bourbon.  This is a favorite and one we pour often at home – pick it up for a deal and with a special etched personalization from 6-8pm.  Full details from Sigel’s below. 

Gentleman Jack Rare Tennessee Whiskey
Tasting and Bottle Engraving
Wednesday, December 22nd,  5pm – 8pm
Sigel’s - Uptown (3209 N. Fitzhugh)
“Personalize your Gift this year”
Holiday Special – $27.99 , Reg.  31.99

Knob Creek Bourbon
Custom Bottle Engraving
Thursday, December 23rd, 6pm – 8pm
Sigel’s -  (57578 Greenville Ave.)
“make your gift unique with a custom engraving”
Holiday Special – $29.99, Reg. 33.99

Grey Goose Vodka
Tasting & Bottle Engraving
Thursday, December 23rd, 1pm – 4pm
Sigel’s - Addison ( 15003 Inwood Rd.)
“Custom engrave your holiday message”
Holiday Special – $28.99, Reg. 33.99

More Sparklers For The Holiday….And All Year

As Andrew Chalk noted yesterday, there are some great bubbly options available just in time for the holiday. And, as we are just days away from Christmas, a few more days from the new year, now is the time to add a little extra skip to your step, tingle to your nose, celebration to your glass.
For those looking to save a few dollars on bubbly this year, here is a list of elegant, flavorful and traditionally made sparklers that will please you and even your most finicky guest. I do love Champagne, don’t get me wrong, but alternates like Cava, Prosecco, Sparklers from California to Argentina can often be just as good and cost 1/2 to 1/4 as much. A few of these options were sent for editorial consideration, all are delicious.
jump to read more about seasonal sparklers… (more…)

Friday and Saturday are Wine-tastic at Dallas Whole Foods Markets

Kegging—it’s not just for beer anymore.

Swing by Whole Foods’ wine bars this afternoon to sip Texas Hill Country’s Duchman Family Vermentino at $3 per glass (regularly $4.50) and Montepulciano at $5 per glass (regularly $7.50). The wines have been kegged (an eco-friendly process which keeps 26 bottles from being corked, packaged, labeled and transported) exclusively for Whole Foods Markets and will be served from 4 to 6 pm at the new wine bar at the Highland Park store (4100 Lomo Alto) and from 5 to 7 pm at the Park Lane store (8190 Park Lane). Duchman Family winemaker David Reilly will sign bottles from 4 to 5 pm in Highland Park and from 5:30 to 6:30 pm at Park Lane.

On Saturday, stock the bar with Whole Foods’ one day wine saleA six-pack of Whole Foods’ Top 10 Holiday wines will run you a mere $49.99 (and makes a great gift). Each Perfect Bundle includes:

Chalone Vineyard Sauvignon Blanc
Römerhof Riesling
Estancia Pinot Noir
Bubo Old Vine Zinfandel
De Chanceny Crèmant de Loire
Bodegas Castaño Hécula Monastrell

DUO Opens in Grand Style

You have to know when two of Dallas’ smart, successful and impecably stylish women come together to create an “all things culinary” concept that it is going to be good, especially when the names Fearing and Rathbun are behind it.

Tracy Rathbun and Lynea Fearing

Last night Tracy Rathbun and Lynea Fearing welcomed a chic gathering of Dallasites to their new culinary space and entertainment venue, DUO, just a few doors down from their Asian Fusion hot spot, Shinsei.

Over cocktails featuring Coole Swan Dairy Cream Liqueur and abundant appetizers including California rolls, vegetable rolls, fish tacos with avocado and soft egg custard served in the shell with truffle and maple syrup, guests mingled around the well-designed room filled with everything from furniture, to plate and glassware, to knives and kitchen gadgets, and food products by none other than husbands Chef Kent Rathbun and Chef Dean Fearing.  (I heard a rumor recently that you can’t get Chef Dean’s bottled tortilla soup at Central Market anymore, you have to get it at DUO now.)

Jump for joy and pictures. (more…)

Holiday Gifts Part 3 – Books….

Yes, hard cover books are still published, and though your eBook or Kindle may be trying to rule your book reading world, a beautiful hard cover wine and spirits book is still good for the coffee table, kitchen, bar or (for some) nightstand.

I wish I had written the Art and Design of Contemporary Wine Labels.  I have so many friends that I know that buy wine solely based on the label….red or white, bold or soft…doesn’t matter. If they like the label they will buy it.  Which also shows you how far opinions have changed from the very Old World, European style with a chateau adorning the label.  Does it mean that wine in a bottle with a flashy label is bad? Of course not, but it may mean the winery owner is a bit more adventurous.  Tanya Scholes takes you through the whole process of how a present day label is really created.  

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Holiday Gifts: Part 2 – Big Red Wine

If you are still in a quandary about what to give that best buddy, new in-law or special wine loving someone, here are a few ideas that will be a sure scene stealer at your holiday gathering.  Some of these ideas were sent for editorial consideration, some I just love.

Big red wines are always a hit around our house.  2007 is considered by many to be one of the best coming out of Napa in years.  I am still a fan of the 2006 though – a little earthier, maybe slightly more tannic, but should age nicely over the next few years leading to velvety smooth, bold reds perfect for holiday feasting.  A few favorites from both years have crossed my palate recently, including:

Robert Mondavi Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve 2006 - Though a lot of Mondavi is large production created in large production style.  The Reserve is special, hand harvested in small bins to protect the integrity of the fruit, hand sorted, fermented in oak tanks after gentle pressing, 18 months of aging in 100% new French oak, this Cab is elegant and timeless.  Right now cherry, plum and licorice exude from the wine, but give it a few years in the bottle and leather and earthy aromas should shine through this elegant wine. (more…)

Holiday Gifts to Sip and Enjoy: Part 1

There are so many new flavors, reads, mixers, wines, spirits and liqueurs that have popped up this year that are perfect for gifting to your sweetheart, friends, siblings or in-laws that you want to make a good impression with.  There are too many to include in just one post, so here is are a few spirits perfect for gifting.  Some ideas were sent for editorial consideration, some I just love.

Deep Eddy Sweet Tea Vodka - I have written about this special vodka a few times since the Austin based product came out earlier this year.  I still think it is one of the best flavored vodka’s on the market, and spices up a good ’ole glass of iced tea, something any Southern girl will like.

Frozen Ghost Vodka - The Ghost of Christmas past, present or future won’t haunt you when you are drinking Frozen Ghost Vodka.  Inspired by Canadian farmer ”Tobias” who haunted his murderer neighbor whopushed him into his profitable spring.  The spring froze, Tobias died and subsequently haunted his murderer into confession.  Good story, but mainly, great vodka.  Clean vodka, distilled 5 times with equal parts Canadian rye and wheat grain.  Mix it with Red Bull and enjoy a Poltergeist. 

There are many kinds of tequilas on the market, but I tend to turn to Partida Anejo for sipping, though their Blanco is great in a margarita also.  The Anejo is aged 18 months in former Jack Daniels barrels giving it a caramel, copper color, with citrus zest, dried fruit and nutty aromas and silky smooth mouthfeel and flavors of honey and butterscotch. 

For your Entourage fans, you have to get them the Avion Silver Tequila.  Small batch distillation, and slow filtration gives this tequila clean, mineral rich flavors pairing perfectly with your favorite mixer, or over ice with heaps of fresh squeezed lime.     

The Macallan 18 – enough said.

Adopt an Olive Tree for the Foodie on Your Gift List

File this one in the memorable gift category: adoption of (and three liters of oil from) your loved one’s very own Italian olive tree nestled in the Tre Olive Grove in Calabria, Italy.

For only $110, your loved on will receive:

  • A customized certificate of adoption (in a hard-cover display holder, no less)
  • An informational brochure and welcome letter
  • A photo of the adopted tree, tagged with the recipient’s name and the adoption year
  • And, come spring, three liters of extra virgin olive oil from the adopted tree

The adoption expires after 12 months, just in time for next year’s holiday hubbub.

Visit www.treolive.com to knock out your whole list in no time.

Artizone Is Open, Online and Delivering to Your Door

Sometimes I get so caught up in the world of wine and spirits that some great foodie events pass me by, but to my great pleasure I recently heard about Artizone.  Having just celebrated their launch, Artizone aims to bring artisan products created, raised, farmed, crafted and imported by some of our favorite Dallas artisinal food shops (Spiceman 1410, Scardello’s, La Duni) to you in the comfort of your own home. 

Though I personally love going into Spicer’s to see what he has special that day (especially when it is truffles); now I have the opportunity to do that online.  And, while I am buying my fresh greens and lobster mushrooms from Spicer, I can buy Rogue Creamery Caveman Bluefrom Scardello’s, a tenderloin from VonGeertsem Butcher Shoppe, Texas Olive Ranch Olive Oil from Flavors From Afar, Cuatro Leches cake from La Duni and fresh jam from JJ&B

All will be gathered and delivered to your door for a small delivery fee.  I did some research and it looks like the delivery charge stays pretty constant whether you buy from one store or all the stores.  You will have a handful of options on delivery time/date as well, especially since they want you to be at home to receive the delivery.  (Cuatro Leches cake doesn’t need to sit out on a porch…both for melting issues and hungry neighbors.)  And they are just delivering to a handful of Dallas zip codes for now, but that will likely grow as they do.  Though still young, the concept is great, and their partners are top notch.  Certainly something  if you want to support our local Dallas businesses selling local products, but don’t have time to run all over town.

Exploring World Cheese Culture at Scardello and Beyond

The list of things I enjoy but have no understanding of could form an unbroken string of topics stretching from the sidewalk on St. Paul up to our 21st floor offices. Organized alphabetically, the list would start with alchemy and bootlegging and progress through cheese making, juggling, string theory, sexual astrology, and water births.

As a Sagittarius (thanks for asking) it’s in my nature to want to understand how stuff works, and yesterday seemed like as good a day as any to flex that compulsion and start my exploration into those bulwarks of bacteria: artisan cheeses.

I started my education at Scardello, the luscious Uptown microcosm where warm and welcoming in-house epicure Emily walked me through a primer intended to hold me over until I could attend their next Cheese 101 class on Oct. 21.

Let the record show that I’ve sung odes to fine cheeses from Bruges to The Black Sea, but my applied knowledge of cheese comes to a grinding halt somewhere around Camembert. So when Emily presented me with a 13-item tasting slate and sat down with me to explain not just the provenance of each cheese but the proper method for consuming each bite (press it to the roof of your mouth and exhale), I decided it would be a good idea to start taking notes.

Within one hour I tasted the following:

jump to the story… (more…)

Stocking the Cupboard at the State Fair Food & Fiber Pavillion

Disclaimer: Let me preface the following by saying that I was raised by Pennsylvania Dutch parents, which explains a lot about what I’m about to say:

When I was growing up, the list of what my parents “didn’t believe in” (mayonnaise, private cars, food made by strangers, and tuna from a can) was almost as long as the list of what they actively feared (avocados, botulism, spices of all kinds, and activities that attracted more than four people). That being said, both going to the State Fair and eating spicy foods were completely out of the question.  (My only experience of going to a Fair came in 1976 when our elderly neighbors staged a  pity-abduction and took my brother and me in the back of their wood-paneled Travelall.  Sidenote: once we got there, I was both too thrilled and too afraid to eat anything.)

So, imagine the illicit charge I got (as both a food writer and Fair virgin) as I noshed my way through the tastings at last night’s Fair Food sneak peek in the Food & Fiber Pavillion. From this year’s bumper crop of  TX commestibles, three standouts made my list for best bets for stocking the goodie-corner of my pantry.

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Crazy for Loco Cowpoke’s Salsa in McKinney

In the upcoming July issue of D, we’ll be discussing all things suburbs: best schools, lowest crime, and home values among others. Ambiance factors in as well, and, in my opinion, McKinney’s downtown historic square is about as charming as it gets. Pretty tasty too. Great restaurants (Rick’s Chophouse, Spoons Cafe with its amazing homemade coconut cream pie) and one epicurean shop that’s worth the 40 minute drive from my modest Oak Cliff abode: Loco Cowpoke. Does dirty jalapeno olive relish sound tasty? Then jump for the savory details. (more…)

Hot Sauce Harry’s in Dallas Has a New Salsa

I’m sure it will be a popular Father’s Day gift.

Valentine’s Day Dining in Dallas: Last Call

Over it.

This is the last post for Valentine’s Day dining options in Dallas. Open his link and you will find romantic options from restaurants, bakeries, and take-out spots. If you are a restaurant and you are not on this list, please post your information in the comments section.