Eat

Philadelphia’s Best Book-Themed Bars to Try Now For A Cozy Retreat

by TheSpot March 19, 2025

written by TheSpot

Discover Philadelphia’s Cozy, Bookish Bars for Your Next Night Out

Ladies, if you’re looking for a night out that combines sophistication with a relaxed vibe, Philadelphia’s newest book-themed bars might just be the perfect spot to unwind. Whether you’re meeting friends, enjoying a solo drink, or even looking for a low-key date night, these places offer the perfect atmosphere, delicious cocktails, and plenty of space for great conversation.

Two spots that have quickly become favorites are Writer’s Block Rehab and the Library Bar at Rittenhouse. We’re loving how these places blend intimate, bookish vibes with that signature Philly charm. Here’s why they should be on your radar.

Writer’s Block Rehab: A Hidden Gem in Center City

Tucked away near Avenue of the Arts, Writer’s Block Rehab is easy to find once you spot the large neon sign glowing from the corner. It’s a cozy retreat from the hustle and bustle, and while the downstairs area is more of a waiting space, the upstairs truly steals the show. The décor here is straight out of a book lover’s dream, with shelves lined with books and an atmosphere that’s perfect for settling in with a drink and good company.

What makes Writer’s Block unique? Well, you’ll be handed your menu in a literal “book,” which adds a fun twist to your experience (even if it takes a second to figure out where to look).

The cocktails rotate depending on the season or even the week, so there’s always something fresh to try. If you’re in the mood for something light, the Cucumber Gimlet is an ideal choice: crisp, refreshing, and subtle, it’s perfect for an early evening out. Plus, the ambiance strikes the right balance between lively and laid-back—ideal for deep conversations without a loud crowd interrupting.

Writer’s Block Rehab is the ideal setting for when you’re looking for a chill but trendy spot to catch up with your besties or even enjoy a solo night out.

Library Bar at The Rittenhouse: Sophistication Meets Charm

If you’re in the mood for something a bit more sophisticated but still casual enough for a fun night out, Library Bar is a must-visit. The ambiance here oozes old-world charm—just imagine walking through the lobby of The Rittenhouse Hotel, past the soft sound of a grand piano, and into a space that feels both glamorous and intimate.

Arriving early is key if you want to snag a spot at the bar or a cozy corner table, so plan ahead! Whether you’re stopping by for a pre-theatre drink, winding down after a busy week, or heading out for cocktails with friends, Library Bar offers a relaxed yet upscale experience.

Don’t forget to try their handcrafted cocktails—our favorites include the Perfect Square and French 75, which pack a punch without being overly strong. Pair your drink with one of their decadent charcuterie or artisanal cheese plates, and you’ll feel like you’re living your best (and most chic) life.

For those evenings when you want to look a little extra cute in your statement bag and favorite weekend outfit, The Library Bar delivers that effortlessly stylish vibe without feeling stuffy.

Next time you’re looking for a new bar to try, these two bookish spots will be sure to check all the boxes: intimate, stylish, and full of good drinks and even better conversation. Whether you’re flying solo or out with friends, Writer’s Block Rehab and The Library Bar will help you feel like the main character in your own night out.

https://www.rittenhousehotel.com/dining/librarybar

March 19, 2025

Eat For Family Inspiration Uncategorized

EASY FAMILY HOLIDAY BAKING RECIPES TO START A NEW TRADITION

by TheSpot December 14, 2024

written by TheSpot

By Ella Colarossi

There’s no better scent during the holiday season than the smell of fresh-baked cookies wafting
through the air when you come home. My family takes it a step further, baking enough cookies
to feed a small army. My name is Ella Colarossi, and one of my favorite holiday traditions is our
family’s cookie-baking marathon. Each year, we make over 15 different types of cookies, from
cherished family recipes to new finds that quickly become traditions of their own. This isn’t just a
baking session—it’s a full family affair that has been a part of my life for as long as I can
remember.
The main bakers are my mom, grandma, two sisters, and me. My dad and brother are the
official taste testers, though we don’t trust them with the baking (they’d probably burn the
cookies if we let them try!). We crank up the Christmas carols and bake all day long. But cookie
baking isn’t just a one-day event for us—it’s a season-long tradition that begins in
mid-November and stretches all the way through to Christmas Eve. We even have a second
freezer dedicated solely to cookie storage.
This tradition was started by my dad’s mother, my Nana. She was the best baker I knew, always
with an endless supply of cookies when we visited her. Though she has passed, her
cookie-baking legacy lives on. We use her recipes every year. We give cookies as gifts, creating
homemade plates for friends and family. While everyone has their favorites, the most requested
are our molasses cookies, ooey gooey cookies, and lemon cookies. Some of these recipes are
family secrets, passed down through generations, while others have been collected over the
years from various sources. But no matter where they come from, they’ve all become an integral
part of our family tradition.

“Lemony Slice-and-Bakes”
Makes: About 50 Cookies
2 1⁄2 cups all-purpose flour
1⁄2 tsp. kosher salt
1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, room temp
3/4 cup sugar
2 tbsp. finely grates lemon zest
1 tsp. vanilla extract
4 large egg yolks
Icing:
1 1/4 cups powdered sugar
2 tbsp. fresh lemon juice
sanding sugar
Whisk flour and salt in a medium bowl, set aside. On medium-high speed, beat butter, sugar,
lemon zest, and vanilla until light and fluffy (about 3 mins). Add egg yolks; beat just to blend.
Reduce speed to low; add flour mixture and beat, just to blend. Divide dough in half; roll each
half into a 10″ – long log about 1 3/4″ in diameter. Wrap in plastic and chill until firm, about 1
hour. Keep Chilled. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Cut each log into 1/4″ thick rounds and bake

on parchment lined baking sheets. Bake until cookies are firm and golden brown around edges,
about 16-18 mins. Let cool for one minute before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.
Drizzle with icing and dust with sanding sugar.

“Chocolate Ooey Gooey Cookies”
Makes: 2 Dozen
1 (8-ounce) brick cream cheese, room temperature
1 stick butter, room temperature
1 egg90op[=[-
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 (18-ounce) box moist chocolate cake mix Confectioners’ sugar for dusting
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. In a large bowl with an electric mixer, cream the cream cheese
and butter until smooth. Beat in the egg. Then beat in the vanilla extract. Beat in the cake mix.
Cover and refrigerate for 2 hours to firm up so that you can roll the batter into balls. Roll the
chilled batter into tablespoon sized balls and then roll them in confectioner’s sugar. Place on an
ungreased cookie sheet, 2 inches apart. Bake 12 minutes. The cookies will remain soft and
“gooey.” Cool completely and sprinkle with more confectioners’ sugar, if desired.

“Mammy’s Molasses Tung Cookies”
Makes: 5-6 Dozen
1 cup butter
1/2 cup Crisco
1⁄2 cup mild baking molasses
2 eggs (beaten)
2 cups sugar
2 tsp. cinnamon
1 tsp. cloves
1 tsp. ginger
4 tsp. baking soda 5 cups flour
1 tsp. salt
Directions:
Preheat oven to 325 degrees. Cream sugar with butter and Crisco. Add eggs and molasses. Mix
dry ingredients together and add gradually to the creamed mixture. Make finger like rolls and roll
in sugar. Bake for 10 minutes on ungreased cookie sheets.

December 14, 2024

Eat For Her Uncategorized

Spread Love with Homemade Treats: A Home Baker’s Inspirational Story

by TheSpot May 15, 2024

written by TheSpot

It was a bright crisp day when I headed towards a charming Main Line neighborhood for a meeting. Upon reaching the delightful Philadelphia suburb residence, I hoped it was the correct address. Elisa Ludwig, the proprietor of Care Package Bakes, warmly invited me inside. The vibrant decor immediately caught my attention as we exchanged a few words before making our way to the kitchen. I was immediately in awe as the kitchen exuded openness, brightness, and warmth- a baker’s dream for creating memorable care packages. A sense of peace washed over me instantly. Elisa’s creations were meticulously displayed, colorful, visually appealing, and beautifully packaged. I was delighted to meet Elisa, having been impressed by her Instagram page. Elisa is a home baker specializing in crafting “care packages” filled with homemade treats.

Like many women, she transformed her passion into a thriving business. Elisa’s love for baking began in her youth, influenced by her mother who worked as a caterer and cafe owner. She gained valuable culinary knowledge and basic skills, as well as understanding the importance of presentation. Elisa attributes her ability to prioritize visual appeal in food to her early experiences. She commenced her career as a food writer for various publications in Philadelphia, where she also tested recipes and refined her culinary expertise. Elisa stresses the significance of these testing experiences in her journey.

During the pandemic, Elisa, like many other parents, had to put her own products on hold in order to prioritize her son’s schoolwork. In addition, Elisa and her husband had to give up their love for entertaining at home., as that part of their lives came to a halt. However, amidst the isolation, Elisa found moments of inspiration that led her back to her first love, baking, as a means of reconnecting with others. She believed that baking could serve as a conduit to reunite with her friends. Interestingly, Elisa humorously refers to herself as the “neighborhood baking lady.” What started as an idea quickly gained momentum. We discussed how life was before and after the pandemic, and starting her own business became a way for Elisa to establish connections with people. She takes pleasure in creating her baked goods for various individuals.

Elisa emphasizes the significance of quality in her product. She produces her goods in small quantities and dedicates time to carefully select specific and high-quality ingredients. According to her, her treats are not merely meant for mindless consumption, but rather to provide an exceptional experience. Her objective is to evoke emotions and foster the sharing of special occasions. Elisa’s range of offerings includes raspberry and chocolate chip strawberry cookies, coconut cakes with marshmallow frosting, and a seasonal assortment that is constantly changing. Elisa expresses that her business serves as her creative outlet and brings her immense satisfaction. So, where does Elisa find inspiration for her creations? She draws inspiration from her mother’s recipes and enjoys experimenting with different combinations. For Elisa, the joy lies in the process of creating and personalizing her treats.

We were given the chance to bring home our very own assortment of treats, and we can confidently say that each treat offered a delightful explosion of distinct flavors and textures. Every bite is meant to be relished, as no two treats are alike. If you’re looking to give a gift or commemorate a special person or occasion in a truly exceptional way, Care Package Bakes is the shop you should reach out to. We advise against waiting too long, as the news is spreading! They were recently honored as the Best of Philly Home Bakery in 2022 and were also featured on Fox 29 Good Philadelphia. You can watch the video showcasing their creations here. https://www.fox29.com/video/1430637. Elisa crafts treat boxes, boards, and favors that can be shipped anywhere in the U.S., or you can opt for their pick-up and delivery service. Further details can be found here. https://carepackagebakes.com/

May 15, 2024

Eat For Family For Her Health

Planting the Seeds of Garden Magic: Discover the Delights of an Edible Garden with Backyard Eats

by TheSpot April 26, 2024

written by TheSpot

Some of my favorite childhood memories are from holiday visits to my relatives just outside of Philadelphia. It seemed like everyone in the neighborhood, including my Uncle Gino, had their own vegetable garden. Gino’s pride was his tomato patch right on the front lawn. I remember him beaming as he showed us the ripe ones, which we’d pick and eat right there, often with a bit of fresh basil. Those were simple, happy times.

I’ve tried to replicate that garden magic myself, but let’s just say things didn’t work out as planned. Whether it was tomatoes or herbs, my container gardening attempts on my small balcony were always a flop. I could almost see the veggies growing in my mind, but they hardly ever did in real life. That’s why I got so excited when I stumbled upon Backyard Eats. They build and take care of gardens you can actually eat from.

I wanted to learn more about Backyard Eats, so I got in touch with Chris Mattingly, the company’s founder! He shared his journey from being laid off as a professional civil engineer to starting this unique business. After the layoff, Chris thought a lot about his past volunteer work and how much he wanted to do something meaningful. He had always helped out where he could, building community-level water systems in Honduras, or traveling to the Philippines in the wake of super typhoon Yolanda. But Chris wanted to make a difference in his community.

Chris then told me about this one morning he spent in his tiny Chestnut Hill front-yard garden. He was fascinated by tasting berries at different ripeness levels and all the unique flavors. It was that moment of simple pleasure in his garden that led to his light bulb idea: if he loved this so much, why not help others feel the same? And just like that, he shifted his life to focus on helping people grow their own food with Backyard Eats.

Today, Backyard Eats keeps up with everything gardening-related so their clients always get the best advice and service. Chris likes to say it’s about “sharing the magic”—and it really feels like that. Whether it’s finding a new hobby, eating healthier, or spending quality time with your family and friends, there’s something special about growing your own food. Chris’s own kids have learned to love their backyard full of homegrown wonders, just like I did back at Uncle Gino’s.

Chris and his team support every garden enthusiast, regardless of their experience level, or what they’re looking to get out of your garden. They design, build, and maintain gardens. They call it ‘Full Service Food Gardening.’

The Backyard Eats magic, heavily augmented by technology on the back-end, includes printed metal plant labels for every variety planted. The printed labels even have a unique QR code, which takes the user from their garden, right to a page with detailed care and harvest instructions, and a selection of recipes specific to the plant ingredient in question.

Tucked away in Flourtown, PA, Backyard Eats has become something really special. They offer initial consultations to get you started, assess your garden’s potential, and come up with a custom design just for you—with a 3D walk-through to boot! They’re all about getting people to enjoy gardening as much as they do, from start to finish.

Whether you’re a newbie or have been gardening for years, Backyard Eats can help you out. Just reach out to them for more info or to set up a time to talk about your green dreams. Happy gardening!

April 26, 2024

Eat For Family For Her

The Delightful Experience of Afternoon Tea: A Perfect Blend of Elegance and Indulgence

by TheSpot February 13, 2024

written by TheSpot

Love is an expression that manifests in a variety of ways. There is romantic, familial, for friends or for any living being in our lives. There is self-care or self-love. Whether we are healing or simply nurturing ourselves, loving ourselves is showing up for our best selves.

As Valentine’s Day and the equally popular Galentine’s Day are upon us, however way we choose to celebrate love, is really a matter of personal choice. Cookie cutter ideas are becoming a thing of the past and we’re here for it. Chocolate remains the ultimate symbol of the love month and we wouldn’t have it any other way. As restaurants offer specialized menus and limited promotions, we found there are other delightful experiences that you can enjoy with your favorite people.

Firstly, how often when making plans for a group, does the idea of a convenient bar serving up cocktails and perhaps a few bites springs to mind? While coordinating schedules, the feeling becomes more or less like a job and the end result is something thrown together which takes the fun out. There is always a time for a meet up but maybe there are some easier ideas that can give you back quality time.

Tea rooms or cafes devoted to tea time have gained popularity recently. Perhaps a return to old-world traditions and elegance has bookings in high demand. Either way, the ambience of a place setting, linens, tea cups, and finger sandwiches exudes an air of refinement. A tea house allows these moments of leisure by sipping on a cup of tea, savor small delicacies, and engage in the art of conversation. It allows us to fully immerse ourselves in the present moment and cherish it.

Why have a tea party gathering? In addition to valuing precious time, it allows your loved ones to sample diverse tastes and traditions from around the world. A Tase of Britain in Wayne, Pa, offers not only teas from across the pond, but also hard to find snacks and candy bars that can only be found in the U.K. If you don’t want the experience to end there, an adorable gift shop offers many unique items that make great gifts or simply to take home a few mementos. La Mademoiselle Macaron in Mullica Hill, NJ, offers a French experience with tea, fresh macarons, tarts, and pastries. Select events and workshops are also available on their website. For an elevated afternoon tea experience, The Mary Cassatt Tea Room in The Rittenhouse, is an old-world affair. A Philadelphia tradition that will take you on a journey back in time.

Schedules, appointments, sports activities won’t let up anytime soon. We can however set aside an afternoon to relish in a world where time slows down, enjoy our company, and appreciate the exquisiteness of life.

February 13, 2024

Eat For Her

Flavorful Finds: How DiBruno Bros. in Wayne, Pa. is Redefining Specialty Foods

by TheSpot November 18, 2023

written by TheSpot

As we scroll through social media, how many of us stop and go through all the photos of that friend who is away in Europe or some far off land? We’re studying the backgrounds, what they’re eating, and who they’re with. If we’re not on vacation but dining somewhere special, how many of us are guilty of taking photos of our dishes and posting them? Guilty. It almost seems so normal that we no longer question why. We believe the answer is that we are living in the moment and want to share our moment.

We visited Di Bruno Bros. Wayne and if we’re betting on a dining experience that is ethereal, we’re holding the winning hand on Bar Alimentari. The Italian word alimentari simply means food. The simplicity of the word alludes to its’ elegance. The display of curated wine, charcuterie, and gourmet cheeses demonstrates only a portal of what Bar Alimentari has to offer and how they’re redefining specialty foods.

Upon entering the establishment, you’re immediately transported to a Parisian cafe. An arch wrapped with a garland of lemons and twinkling lights brings to life a Midsummer Night’s Dream. Small tables and wicker chairs sketch a picture of good conversation and great wine. Yet, there is beginning to the journey. Their famous cheeses are on display with a cheese professional ready to greet you with their expertise. Almost immediately approaching the cheese counter, Evan greeted us with samples of cheese as he explained the textures and flavors. Jason Asher, Director of Di Bruno Bros. Wayne and Ardmore, took us on a tour of the Wayne location to show us all it has to offer. He explained that cheesemongers receive continuing education on the most up to date cheeses and source the best of the best.

One of the standout features is their gift basket station. They have the option to either create your own personalized package with the help of a sales associate or order specialty gift baskets online. A genius amenity that does away with the stress of gift giving.

What you may not know is that Di Bruno Bros. offers their own label wine which the Di Bruno Bros. team actually collaborates with winemakers to develop unique brands. Erica Field, Social Media Manager and Graphic Designer, added that they went as far as crushing the grapes to get the all around experience of winemaking. Their wines are either sold separately or can also be paired with other various items for events or special occasions at their establishments. For the coffee lovers, they’ve partnered with artisan coffee roaster, Caffe Umbria, which serves up a truly unique Italian coffee experience. Popular opinion says that coffee and wine make great gift basket accessories for the holidays!

The wine section is as large and impressive as any wine and spirit chain if not moreso. Jason explained to us that great care is taken on selecting wines that are not sold elsewhere. The idea is exclusivity. At Bar Alimentari, don’t be deceived by the modest decor. It is a full service restaurant. The atmosphere is meant to be relaxed and lively with great food and conversation. Full sections such as Arrosto, Pane Dolce, and Chef’s Counter are dedicated stations serving the highest quality meats, roast, prepared dishes, and sweet delicacies. The patron is participating in a culinary adventure.

Foccaceria (pronounced Fo-katcha-reeha), is a new sandwich station now serving large made-to-order sandwiches using their famed artisanal meats and cheeses we have all come to love. You must top off any meal with dessert. Di Bruno Bros. is one of the few select establishments that carry Venchi Fine Chocolates from Turin, Italy and Philadelphia staple Isgro Pastries. Are you looking for a nutritious meal that can be quickly prepared during your busy days or nights? Consider trying out their cast iron pizza program or try Di Bruno Bros. to go meals, which are designed to cater to the needs of busy parents and individuals with hectic schedules. These meals can be easily heated up and enjoyed at any time, providing you with a wholesome and satisfying dining experience.

Di Bruno Bros. Philadelphia is a valued and trusted name where generations of families filled their tables with highest quality cheese and charcuterie. Di Bruno Bros.Wayne is not just an eatery or dining establishment. Today, it is a gathering place to replenish your senses and signal “unwind.” It is where we connect with conversation, delectable bites, and chill wines.

Di Bruno Bros. brings trusted old world traditions to the new world of taste. Lastly, the outdoor patio is a congenial option on warm days and early evenings.

It’s time to uncover Di Bruno Bros. Wayne, PA. It is our choice to catch up with a friend, shop in nearby plazas, or unwind after the work day. Charm, elegance, and taste are qualities that are tried and true and never go out of style. Visit their location at 385 West Lancaster Avenue, Wayne, PA 19087.

November 18, 2023

Eat For Family

AFTER HOURS AT DiBRUNO BROS. Eat, Drink, and Make Memories

by TheSpot August 30, 2023

written by TheSpot

Stepping in the original location of Di Bruno Bros. is like walking into a black and white photo of Old World Philadelphia. It is a nod to an early twentieth century scene of butchers, fishermen, and cheese mongers weaving through 9th Street with wheelbarrows of their latest catches or kills. After 80 years of business, the DiBruno Bros. brand has evolved from a specialty store to a Philadelphia culinary enterprise. The brand is now in major supermarket chains, several store locations, plus events and catering. We recently met with Tommy Amorim, Assistant Store Team Leader and After Hours Director, to learn more about its history and in some ways a true Philadelphia story.

After Hours is an in store customer experience like no other. First however, we learn Tommy’s role starting with the original store. Tommy’s grandfather, Giuseppe Abruzzo, worked for Di Bruno Bros. for 62 years alongside owners Danny and Joe. DiBruno Bros. was more or less a cheese store along other specialty stores on 9th Street. After Tommy’s grandfather’s passing in 2008, Tommy decided that he wished to step into the work of his grandfather. We asked the question if cheese mongering is a lost art form. Tommy acknowledges that there are less and less cheese professionals due to pre-packaged cheeses however abides by traditional cheese making methods. Today, Tommy is part of the 2nd generation of the Di Bruno Bros. family.

So what exactly is After Hours? DiBruno Bros.has various locations in the Philly region. After Hours offers a group of 10 or more people a two hour shopping experience of curated cheeses, charcuterie plates, and wine pairings. Cheesemongers use their creativity and inspiration to come up with 6 to 7 plates. Tommy trusts his team to apply their passions and imagination in creating these special platters and pairings.

We asked Tommy what he hopes are the takeaways after this experience. He hopes that those who participate not only leave enriched nutritionally, but also mentally and spiritually. If a client has any dietary restrictions, their mongers curate boards to fit customers’ needs.

For Tommy, this is not just a trendy new foodie job but a purpose of sharing and experiencing the best cheeses of the world and passing it on to customers. It is easy to see Tommy is passionate about taking these time honored traditions and revitalizing them. The result is a fully immersive experience of tradition, history, and the palate.

How did After Hours come about? Surprisingly the idea stemmed from a little humor stemming from customer comments wishing they could stay locked up in the store after closing. The illuminating brain child of Tommy of pairing cheese with wine gave life to the After Hours Program. In addition to these specialized pairings, the feature includes a 20% discount off all items, plus a store gift either in the form of a tote bag or something comparable. During the shopping experience, Tommy encourages guests to indicate to a store professional whatever meets the eye. They will then cut the items for you or make them available for purchase.

It is no secret that Philadelphia has one of the best culinary scenes in the country. As we become sophisticated in taste, experience, and skills, curiosity does not slow down. We want to know more about where our food is sourced, we want to discern taste, age, notes and so forth. Di Bruno Bros. found a way to meet that curiosity.

So who can participate in After Hours? Pretty much anyone for any type of celebration. Whether it is a special occasion or simply a celebration of food and drink, mongers treat each instinct with care. As for returning guests, their mongers make sure they don’t repeat the same presentation. What is the process of curating a group? According to Tommy, the professionals base their presentation on current selections of cheese and pairings that invigorate the staff and spark their creative outlets. If you’re curious about entering this line of work, well Tommy is all too happy to set you on the right path on how to get started.

So if you’re looking for a memorable occasion, After Hours DiBruno Bros. is an encompassing culinary adventure that takes you on a trip of the best international goodies. The enthusiasm, history, and inspiration make it a true Philadelphia story.

Look for Part 2 of our feature in the coming weeks of our Di Bruno Bros. Wayne location adventure as they continue to provide a one of a kind experience!

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA – Winter traffic in the streets of Italian Market, an area of South Philadelphia featuring delis, grocery shops, cafes, restaurants, bakeries, cheese shops, butcher shops, many with an Italian influence.

August 30, 2023

Eat Uncategorized

5 Surprising Culinary Uses for Lavender to Make Your Summer Pop!

by TheSpot July 5, 2023

written by TheSpot

After our visit to Field & Flock Lavender Farm, we were inspired to create recipes to embrace the season. Lavender farms are in bloom and we came up with five surprising easy uses for lavender to get your summer in gear at the beach, on the deck, or in your sunroom. Here’s a little fun fact. The word July derives from Julius Caesar. Hence the month of July represents an imperial figure of antiquity and purple symbolizing nobility and power. Don’t forget that here in the United States 4th of July is celebrated with the red and blue and combined you guessed it… makes purple! So while this misty flower is experiencing it’s peak bloom, why not make your summer pop with lavender in culinary recipes?

The fragrant smell of lavender serves as an instant de-stresser. That’s why it’s no surprise that people are re-discovering the benefits of lavender in tea, honey, and baked goods. Imagine waking up in your happy place relaxed and rejuvenated? Here are a few ideas on how to incorporate lavender in some of your dishes. Lavender is delicate and aromatic therefore makes a great companion to meats, fishes, and desserts. We recommend using the buds of the flower and preferably dry while adding to certain foods. You may very well find them at a fancy hotel, restaurant, or your favorite cocktail lounge but most likely accompanied with a steep price tag. Can you make your own and add a little fun while doing so? Absolutely! The good news you won’t have to travel far and wide for exotic ingredients. Mid-summer is the time for beach picnics, backyard barbecues, or she shed moments for yourself. Sit back, taste the sunshine, and indulge in your favorite treat!

Lavender Sugar -This is rather easy. Simply add dried lavender buds to sugar and keep in a small mason jar to set aside for baking. Make your favorite cookies, cupcakes, or basically any type of dessert that is lavender inspired. A teaspoon in your coffee adds hints of floral notes.
Lavender Tea -Add dried lavender buds in a diffuser while boiling tea. Once tea is hot, add the diffuser in your favorite tea for an added bonus of unwinding and calmness
Lavender Ice Cream – You can actually make your own lavender infused ice cream. All that is needed is a bit of milk, heavy cream, add in some dried buds and oila!
Lavender in the Oven – I started using lavender as a seasoning several years ago and it upped my cooking game for my family. Because this flower is so aromatic, less is definitely more. Roasted chicken, lamb, and fish with this fine seasoning is a game changer!
Lavender Inspired Beverages -The possibilities are endless. Lavender ice tea, lavender lemonade, or lavender mojitos if you want to kick it up bring friends and summer together like bees to lavender honey. See what I did there?

http://culinary-lavender-recipes

July 5, 2023

Eat For Family For Her

La Llorona Cantina Mexicana

by TheSpot May 5, 2023

written by TheSpot

It seems Cinco de Mayo celebrations are held anywhere with food and beverage and a Latin flair. For a little history lesson, Cinco de Mayo is the day that Mexico defeated France in the Franco-Mexican War back in 1862. We know it as May 5th, the day we partake in our favorite Mexican fanfare. The Mexican food scene in Philadelphia exploded in recent years. Taquerias, restaurants, and cafes offering Mexican cuisine, Tex-Mex and other varieties are sprouting in neighborhoods and corners that were left void. In some cases, many of these eateries contribute to revitalization. Increasingly as there are more spaces introducing menu items beyond nachos and burritos, Philadelphians have a new love affair with Mexican food.

There is one restaurant that is not only known for authenticity but receiving rave reviews. La Llorona Cantina Mexicana, strives to meet authentic Mexican in a warm setting in the heart of South Philadelphia. Adrienne Salvatore-Markey, owner of the previous establishment the Thirsty Soul, transformed the location on from trendy bar to one of Philly’s most talked about must try restaurants. Located on Passyunk Avenue, they’re one of the few places to have ample indoor and outdoor seating but their menu selection is what sets them apart. In addition, you’ll find imported Tequilas and Mezcal that you won’t find outside of Mexico.

Plates such as Tlayuda and entrees such as Calabacitas and Pollo En Sul Mole, will. not only heighten the palate but will make you question what you have been missing all this time. They also offer an enviable drink menu specializing in premiere tequila and mezcal plus inventive cocktails. The passion fruit margarita and inolvidable are sure to hit the sweet spot. The care and attention to detail of the ingredients. the slow cooked pork and beef, the splash of citrus that shapes the dish is why La Llorona Cantina Mexicana is our pick this month. Don’t just make plans for Cinco de Mayo but anytime is a reason to celebrate.

May 5, 2023

Eat For Family Health Uncategorized

The Power of Food: How Cooking Can Bring A Community Together for a Good Cause

by TheSpot March 23, 2023

written by TheSpot

It’s no secret that Philadelphia is known as a superlative city for dining. North to South, Fishtown, and reaching far into the counties, our restaurant scene rivals New York and other nouveau foodie towns. Our diversity from Armenian, Cuban, to French and Italian, is a rainbow of gustatory feasts. We spoke to local Chef Maria Campbell, Founder of Cooks Who Care, on how she is using the power of food and dining to bring mental health awareness to our region.

As the Philadelphia dining scene was growing and evolving in recent years, Scott and Maria Campbell, a husband and wife team, founded the organization six years ago as a vehicle to better serve the restaurant community. Both chefs by trade, they began their not-for-profit organization initially as a resource to help industry professionals achieve basic health needs.

Through qualitative research, in addition to creating a YouTube channel of over 100 conversations, the couple found a pattern that the very people taking great care to prepare our optimal dining experiences, were neglecting their own health and well-being. Their research indicated that health, particularly mental health, was at the center of burnout and other challenges. We spoke to Maria at length about how mental health awareness evolved over the years and more specifically after the era of Covid-19.

It must be aforementioned that Maria is a strong advocate in brining mental health awareness front and center of conversation. Maria is full of insights and puts the work in everyday to bring forth this awareness. According to Maria, as with mental health awareness in general terms, industry professionals lacked the proper language to describe their internal battles. That is to say, chefs, servers, bartenders, etc. were reluctant most of the time to admit any suffering and internalized any mental challenge they were experiencing. Maria and her husband Scott looked for a way to change that.

Maria Campbell Founder of Cooks Who Care

Maria cites a couple of events that prompted more openness about mental health and suffering. One was the death of celebrity chef, Anthony Bourdain. It was then she began receiving messages thanking her for her work. The second event was when Covid-19 came about. Essentially the restaurant community ceased worldwide. During this time, industry personnel began to feel empowered to express feelings of anxiety and depression. As Maria described, there was now language to better define mental health awareness but more importantly to say that it was okay not to be okay.

Perhaps for the first time, these challenges although difficult were being heard and addressed as well give those suffering a safe space. Maria believes a lot of good came about pertaining to working conditions and health and well-being on the job. As Maria says, “Covid allowed permission to have a life.” She believes that today the working model has changed the industry at large. Examples including better working hours and increased health benefits.

Maria and Scott are working to set up mini grants to fund mental healthcare. The Campbells also put out Cooks Who Care Cook Book of 500 limited editions printed which 100% of the proceeds are towards the fund. Maria also set up a series of special events entitled “Break the Ice Nights.” Participating restaurants are allocating a portion of the proceeds towards the grants that Maria and Scott are hoping to procure.

The Spot recently spent a “Break the Ice Night” at Oloroso, a Townsend Wentz owned restaurant, in the heart of Center City Philadelphia. Specializing in Spanish tapas such as croquetas and grilled octopus, it was an excellent way of being introduced to a restaurant while supporting a good cause. Maria stated how thrilled she is by how the restaurants are rallying together to participate in these events and the amazing support they have received.

As we talked, savored our plates, sipped on hearty red wines from Portugal, and even struck up a conversation with a stranger, it was an experience that served as a reminder that community and conversation is alive and well in the City of Brotherly Love.

For more information on how to support this good cause, visit cookswhocare.org. The Campbells are also holding a fundraiser raffle tto reach their financial goal of $15k. The drawing is on March 30^th so there is time to donate at https://bit.ly/Raffle_CooksWhoCare. Lastly, for a free sample of Cooks Who Care Cook Book, sign up for our newsletter today! Hurry as it is available in limited supply.

We will continue to follow Maria and Scott Campbell and more events are in the works. The Philly dining scene is lively and thriving and if there is one thing we do best, it is to raise our glasses to support our communities.

March 23, 2023

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